Look around your space. Every object you hold onto tells a story—of a moment, a person, a version of yourself from another time. Some things we keep out of habit, others out of sentimentality. Some remind us who we are, while others tether us to who we used to be. Today’s prompt invites you to reflect on one object in your life that you’ve held onto for a long time. Why have you kept it? What does it represent? And is it something you still need, or something you’re ready to let go?
Our possessions are more than just physical items; they are containers of memory, emotion, and identity. They can serve as anchors, grounding us in our values, relationships, or past experiences. But they can also become weights, holding us back from growth or cluttering our lives—both physically and emotionally. By examining the objects we keep, we gain insight into what we value, what we’ve outgrown, and what we might need to release to make space for the present and the future.
How to Approach This Reflection
Choose an object. It could be something small, like a trinket or a piece of jewelry, or something larger, like a piece of furniture or a book. What matters is that it has been with you for a while and carries meaning.
Ask yourself why you’ve kept it. Is it sentimental? Practical? Does it remind you of someone or something? Does it represent a part of your identity or a phase of your life?
Consider its role in your life now. Does this object still serve a purpose? Does it bring you joy, comfort, or inspiration? Or does it feel like a relic of the past, taking up space without adding value?
Reflect on letting go. If the object no longer serves you, what would it mean to release it? Would it feel freeing, or would it feel like losing a part of yourself?
Objects are powerful because they hold stories, but we are not defined by the things we own. Sometimes, holding onto something can be a way of honoring the past. Other times, letting go can be an act of self-compassion, allowing us to move forward unburdened. Whether you decide to keep your chosen object or release it, this reflection is an opportunity to connect with your history, your values, and your growth.
What object will you choose? And what story does it tell about you?
Take a moment to sit with these questions, and see where they lead you.