Anonymous Kamren wrote: |
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Greetings,
Whenever I buy something, I want to have the "ideal" version of it, for example, when I got a book, it had some dents in the cover, which bothered me as it needs to be in (perfect/ideal) condition, so if I own a book and it's not ideal in my eyes, I seek out another one in better condition which I did for that book, finding one with an undamaged color, so I would end up having multiple copies of the same book.
Another example is if I order a CD and the case is damaged, I swap the damaged case for a better case. For lack of a better word, I'm a "perfectionist" when it comes to collecting things. Which leads to my question(s):
- Is being a "perfectionist" a sin?
- Is wanting a better-quality version of something a sin?
- Is being a collector a sin?
- And is owning multiple versions of a thing (like the book I mentioned) a sin?
I'm trying to get into religion, and I have fears about doing something that is sinful.
Sincerely,
Kamren |
| { Is being a "perfectionist" or a collector a sin or is wanting a better-quality version (or having multiple copies) of something a sin? } |
Eric replied:
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Kamren,
I don't think reckoning this as a sin will be helpful to you at this stage in your journey. I would call it a wound in your psyche that needs healing, and I think you recognize this deep down inside. It's a wound through Jesus Christ that can ultimately be healed. I've dealt with this in my own life and, by the grace of God, I've been able to overcome it through cooperating with God's grace.
I advise that when you have a choice between purchasing two items, a more ideal one and a less ideal one, you consider, as an act of love toward the next person who selects an item, deliberately choose the less perfect item (all other things being equal). If you're faced with a bunch of vegetables in the store, choose one of the imperfect ones (don't choose the worst one; you don't want to be perfectionist about addressing perfectionism), and offer the decision as a sacrifice to God as an act of humility. Choose the orange juice that expires earlier, if you plan to drink it within that time span anyway. Choose the book in the bookstore that isn't wrapped in cellophane. Make decisions that go against your perfectionism as acts of humble love and sacrifice to God.
That's my recommendation.
Eric |
Bob replied:
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Kamren,
Thanks for the question.
In general, no, being a perfectionist as a collector is not a sin. That being said, it is often easier to focus on perfection in material things rather than those of the soul.
Put the same care into perfecting yourself inwardly, through God's grace, for no one can perfect themselves by themselves. That will bring you much greater satisfaction and reward.
Peace,
Bob Kirby |
Mike replied:
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Dear Kamren,
While I agree with both my colleague's answers, from a retail perspective, I would just ensure that if you swap any bought purchases out, it is with the permission of the retailer. This is not only an honesty issue but one that deals with, how many of each product we have "on hand" so we know when to re-order.
I know a little about this since I'm a cashier at Home Depot.
Mike
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