April continually carried either two pocket books or a purse and shopping bag. She carried at least two novels and magazines with her just in case she needed to wait on line or travel. She carried a kit of preparedness of cream, water, flashlight, extra cloths, wallet, many credit cards, check book, identifications, perfumes, some make up, and assorted other “stuff.”
One-day while we were taking a break from work, and having a cup of tea, I suggested that she empty her huge purse on the desk and separate the contents into her needs and wants. On the outside of her purse were several hearts and metal animals that were hung from the leather handles on her purse.
“These have to go first.” I said because they are just added weight.
“But they’re sentimental.” She replied, “They remind me of my children.”
“Put everything back into your purse.” I said. “You’re not ready to make your life easier or unencumbered because you refuse to differentiate between your needs and wants.”

To gain freedom we have to move toward it in our actions. We have to move from restricted, to differentiating between our needs and wants, (throwing our garbage out because we wanted it but do not need it.) through encumbered, to less is more, to unencumbered, to more time, to focus, to unrestricted, to freedom. Of course we all define our own freedom.