Deep Appreciation
Growing up in poverty can be challenging, yet it often instills a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. When resources are limited, even the smallest comforts hold immense significance, far beyond what others might typically recognize.
A group of individuals recently shared their personal views on what they consider luxuries. For some, it might be a fresh outfit or a delicious meal—things that may appear ordinary to many but are truly invaluable to those who lacked them during their upbringing.
Frequently Repaired
Growing up, I seldom received new clothes. Most of what I wore were hand-me-downs from my older siblings or second-hand purchases. My mom frequently repaired our clothes to extend their use, ensuring they lasted as long as possible.
The rare occasions when I got brand-new clothes brought me immense joy. Wearing fresh, unworn outfits made me feel unique and proud, especially when I wore them to school. Those moments of having something special truly stood out in my childhood.
A Developing Country
When I was a child, my family lived in a small town in a developing country where electricity was a rare luxury. Our home often went without power, making daily life challenging and limiting what we could do after sunset.
The day electricity finally arrived was transformative. Suddenly, I could read and study well into the night, and my mother found cooking much simpler and more efficient. This new convenience brought a significant improvement to our daily routine, making life noticeably more comfortable and enjoyable from that moment onward.
A Rare Luxury
When I was young, having a hot shower was a rare luxury. Our only way to get warm water was by heating it on the stove and then carrying it to the bathroom. Despite the inconvenience, I never complained because I understood how hard my father worked to support our family.
The first time I experienced a hot shower, it felt like an indulgent spa experience. That moment made me truly appreciate something many take for granted, and I have never forgotten the value of such a simple comfort.
Enjoy Candy Or Sweets
Growing up, my siblings and I rarely had the chance to enjoy candy or sweets. Our family struggled to afford basic groceries like oil and rice, so treats were simply out of the question.
When I did receive a sweet, it felt incredibly special and meaningful. I would savor every bite of a chocolate bar, appreciating the small but precious indulgence with deep gratitude.
Rare Treat For My Family
Growing up, dining out was a rare treat for my family. Each opportunity to eat at a restaurant, even if it was just McDonald's, filled me with immense excitement and joy. Those moments stood out as special occasions that broke the routine of everyday life.
Having my own meal made me feel mature and important, almost like one of the fortunate kids at school who often enjoyed such privileges. These experiences gave me a sense of being cherished and a little bit spoiled, making each outing memorable and meaningful.
Visit Upscale Malls
As a child, I rarely had the chance to visit upscale malls. I was fascinated by the dazzling lights and the variety of shops, even though my mother couldn’t afford to buy extra gifts. Despite this, we enjoyed simply browsing the store windows together.
Those visits sparked my imagination and brought me joy. Each trip felt like entering a magical place where endless possibilities awaited. I’m truly thankful for the sense of wonder and excitement those moments gave me.
Always Something
We only went to the movies about once a year, but those trips were always something I looked forward to with great excitement. Watching a new film on the big screen felt magical, like stepping into a whole new world.
My dad would gather me and my cousins, and we’d enjoy sandwiches and cold drinks together before the show. Those moments were incredibly special to me, and the happiness I felt during those outings is something I’ll always cherish.
Got Married
When my husband and I got married, we faced financial challenges and couldn’t afford any jewelry. His parents disapproved of our decision to elope and stopped supporting us financially, which made things even harder for us.
So, when he finally managed to buy me a piece of jewelry, it felt like a huge milestone. I wore it daily with immense pride and happiness, treasuring it deeply beyond words.
Watching Fashion TV
As a teenage girl, I loved nothing more than watching fashion TV and imagining myself as a model strutting down the runway. Those moments sparked my passion for style and creativity, even though I didn’t have access to the high-end brands I admired.
Growing up, my family couldn’t afford designer clothes, so owning name-brand items was a rare dream. When I finally bought my first pair of designer jeans and shoes, it felt like a huge achievement. That experience gave me a sense of pride and made me feel unique, as if I had reached a special milestone in my life.
Ice Cream: Simple Pleasures
This may sound silly, but as a child, going out for ice cream was a special treat. I was not allowed much sugar and I remember the excitement of picking out my favorite flavor and savoring every bite.
My mother would always get us two wafer cones. It was a small but sweet indulgence that made me feel happy. I miss those days.
Having A Cellphone: Dangerously Disconnected
My parents did not allow me to have a cellphone when I was in school. So, owning a cellphone was not something that I could afford until I was an adult and earned my own money.
When I finally got one, it felt like a significant achievement. I felt connected to the world and to my loved ones in a way that I never had before.
Having a Flat Big Screen: Home Screen Viewing
Owning a flat big-screen TV was a luxury that I never thought I could afford. After I bought one, it felt like a dream come true.
I enjoyed watching my favorite shows and movies in high definition. It made me feel like I had arrived.
Dentists visits: Self Care No Option
I don’t know anybody that likes going to the dentist but it was a personal health luxury we couldn’t afford. Going to the dentist was a rare treat when I was growing up.
We couldn't afford regular checkups, and dental problems often went untreated. When I finally got to go to the dentist as an adult, it felt like a significant accomplishment.
Owning A Pet: Daddy Can I Keep Him
Growing up poor, owning a pet was considered a luxury. I remember begging my parents for a dog, but we couldn't afford to take care of one.
One day, my neighbor's dog had puppies, and they gave us one. It was a blessing, and we all learned to take care of it. It became a loyal companion and made us feel like we had something to love and take care of.
Having Satellite TV: Cable Woes
Having satellite TV was a luxury that we couldn't afford. We had a small TV with only a few channels that we had to move around to get a clear picture.
But when we finally got satellite TV, it was like a dream come true. We could watch our favorite shows and movies without any interference.
Buying Facial Products: A New Me
Growing up as a teenage girl, my family never had the extra money to buy facial products. I had to rely on the cheapest soaps and lotions.
When I was finally able to buy some good facial products, it felt like a luxury. I could take care of my skin, and it made me feel confident about myself.
Owning A Car: On My Own Way
Owning a car was always a luxury to me. My family never had a car, and we had to walk or use public transport to get around.
As a man, when I was finally able to afford my car, it was a significant achievement. It provided me with independence and allowed me to explore and travel.
Having Health Insurance: Covered From Head To Toe
Growing up poor and without a stable income, we didn't have health insurance. We had to pay for medical bills out of our pockets.
When my father finally got a job that provided us with health insurance, it was a relief. It allowed us to take care of our health without the worry of medical bills.
Having a fridge full of food: Balanced Diet
I remember when we were kids, our fridge and cabinets were never full. My dad had passed away. We had to rely on food donations and government assistance.
Soon my mother got a job that allowed her to fill our fridge and cabinets with food, it was a luxury. It made me appreciate every meal and not take anything for granted.
Owning A Property: Our Own Space
Owning a property was always a dream to me. We had to rent houses and apartments, and we moved around a lot. My parents struggled to raise us.
After graduation at university, I finally saved up enough money to buy a house, it was a significant accomplishment. It provided me with security, stability, and a place to call home.
Going To Parties: Uninvited Attendees
I don’t want to sound like a brat but I hated being stuck at home on the weekends. Going to parties was always a luxury growing up poor. We couldn't afford fancy clothes or gifts to bring.
It was only when I started working that I was finally able to attend parties, it was like a new world had opened up to me. It provided me with social connections and a sense of belonging.
Going To School: Pull Your Weight
This is bad but going to school was a luxury growing up poor. My parents had to work long hours to support us, and they couldn't afford to send us to school.
I had to take a part time job as a paper boy so I didn’t attend school every day. When I finally got a scholarship to attend college, it was like a dream come true. It provided me with opportunities to learn and grow.
Having A Computer: No Dial Up Connection
Today everybody had access, but for me, having a computer with internet access was always a luxury. Growing up poor meant necessities first.
We had to rely on going to the library to use their computers. I finally got a computer and internet access when I started my first job, it provided me with opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with others.
Going On Holiday: Thank You Mum
Going on holiday was always a luxury growing up poor. We couldn't afford to go on vacations or trips. the idea of going on holiday was a distant dream. However, when I turned 18, I managed to save enough money to take my mom on a weekend trip to a nearby beach.
It was the first time we had ever stayed in a hotel, eaten at a restaurant, and swam in the ocean. It was like a dream come true. It provided me with a chance to explore and unwind. The experience was priceless and we still talk about it to this day.
Going on a Plane: Defying Fears
As a child, I never even knew that taking a plane was an option. But, when I landed a scholarship to study abroad in college, I had the chance to travel by plane for the first time.
Sitting in the plane was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. From the food to the in-flight entertainment, it was like stepping into a new world.
Soap: Life’s Daily Habits
Growing up, we could only afford the cheapest soaps, which left us with dry skin and rashes. It wasn't until I started earning my own money that I realized the value of high-quality soap.
My first luxury purchase was a bar of handmade soap that smelled like lavender. It was the first time I felt truly pampered and it taught me the value of investing in oneself.
Expensive Perfume and Beauty Products: A Refined Taste
As a woman, I always longed for expensive perfumes and beauty products but could never afford them. It wasn't until I started working as a makeup artist that I could splurge on high-end cosmetics.
The first time I bought a bottle of Chanel No. 5, it felt like a rite of passage. Now, I wear it on special occasions to remind myself of how far I've come.
Microwave: Nuke It
Growing up, we didn't have a lot of appliances, let alone a microwave. It wasn't until I got my own place that I realized how much time and energy it saved me.
Being able to pop leftovers in the microwave instead of having to cook a whole new meal was a small luxury that made a big difference in my life.
Electric Stove: Modern Times
As a chef, having a high-quality stove is essential. However, growing up, we could only afford a basic gas stove that was always breaking down. It was my job to help my mom fix it.
It wasn't until I landed my first cooking job that I had the chance to work with an electric stove. The precise heat control and consistent performance made cooking a joy rather than a chore.