Living a Life of Luxury
January 9, 2024
Writer: Daniella Alicandri
Editor: Abbie Orlinsky
While walking down State Street this past August, I stumbled upon a quaint store called Little Luxuries. The store’s window was filled with cheerful goodies and gifts—I couldn’t help but smile at the sight. After making my way through the door, I stumbled upon a variety of charming items: stuffed animals, cooking mitts with clever phrases, coffee mugs, locally made jewelry, and so much more. The abundance of simple, however enchanting, trinkets and goods filled me with joy.
After leaving the store that late summer day, I found myself obsessing over how endearing its name was; I couldn't wait to share this hidden gem with my friends. The name—almost an oxymoron by some of our standards today—highlights that the biggest sources of bliss can come from the smallest delights. Luxury does not have to be defined as something gaudy or expensive, rather it can symbolize the unquantifiable feelings of happiness, love, or gratitude that something or someone brings to the table.
The small shop has since inspired me to seek out the “little luxuries” in my own life and encourage those around me to do the same. As I go about my day, I try to notice each and every element of joy that new day brings. By entertaining this new outlook, I have discovered an appreciation for the things I would have otherwise looked past. Little luxuries like squeezing a fresh bottle of toothpaste onto my toothbrush , or feeling of sunshine after a week of the harsh Wisconsin winters, or having your barista ask you “the usual?” bring me gratitude for small moments.
As the name of this store has become somewhat of a slogan in my life, I implore you to implement it into your life as well. Count your wins and honor your accomplishments. Tell the people you care about that you love them. Make chores and day-to-day events exciting. Most of all, be grateful for the paradise that you can create. Your life can be one of luxury by turning what is considered “simple” into something special.
