I use my stuff, carefully, and it lasts. My childhood toys were often nearly indistinguishable from new, but that’s not because I didn’t spend eons playing wit

I use my stuff, carefully, and it lasts. My childhood toys were often nearly indistinguishable from new, but that’s not because I didn’t spend eons playing with them. When I outgrew them, they were passed on and enjoyed just as much by the next child. In my experience, there are two different potential meanings behind the saying “stuff is meant to be used”: (1) Stuff is meant to be used, so don’t sweat the minor scratches, dings, and wear that comes from using it well. (2) Stuff is meant to be used, so don’t criticize me for my absolute lack of care when I use things. I’m very much in camp (1), and I don’t have a lot of respect for camp (2). It’s wantonly wasteful, and prevents passing down and reusing possessions.