The Paradox of Possession: When Less Becomes More

By Abiodun Adigun

The human experience is often marked by an insatiable desire for more – more wealth, more possessions, more experiences. We’re led to believe that accumulating these things will bring us fulfilment, but what if the opposite is true? What if limitations and constraints are what make life’s moments truly worthwhile?
My mother’s words echo in my mind: “Everything seems beautiful, only before it is owned.” This profound insight suggests that the value and allure of something often diminish once it’s possessed.

This phenomenon is not unique to material possessions. Relationships, experiences, and even personal achievements can suffer from the same fate. When we covet something, we often idealise it, imbuing it with qualities that may not entirely exist. But once we attain it, the reality can be far less captivating.
As the Japanese proverb goes, “A possessed object loses its lustre.” This loss of lustre can be attributed to our tendency to take things for granted once they’re ours. My mother’s advice to “keep a distance” from the things we desire resonates with this idea. “If you want something beautiful to remain beautiful in your eyes, then don’t get too close to it.”

The French philosopher, Jean-Paul Sartre, wrote, “Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is forced to choose.” In the context of desire and possession, this freedom to choose can be both a blessing and a curse. The value of limitations becomes apparent when we consider the concept of scarcity. When something is scarce, it becomes more precious. The Latin phrase “Ars longa, vita brevis” or “Art is long, life is short,” highlights the importance of making the most of the time we have. By acknowledging the limitations of our time and resources, we’re forced to prioritise and appreciate what truly matters.

The German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche, wrote, “You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star.” This quote speaks to the idea that constraints and challenges can be catalysts for creativity and growth. By embracing limitations, we can discover new strengths and appreciate the beauty in the imperfect. While the paradox of possession can be observed in individual experiences, it also has broader implications for societal structures and leadership.

Africa’s political landscape is often marred by the persistence of leaders who cling to power with an iron grip, defying the natural order of life. Like Methuselah, the biblical figure renowned for his extraordinary longevity, these politicians seem to possess an unyielding desire for power and wealth, impervious to the passage of time. They accumulate riches and authority, often at the expense of their nation’s progress and their citizens’ well-being. Their actions betray a fundamental disregard for the concept of limitations, ignoring the value of restraint and the importance of passing the torch to newer generations.

This phenomenon raises questions about the motivations and accountability mechanisms in many African countries. Why do these leaders prioritise personal gain over national development? What systemic factors enable their prolonged hold on power? The answers likely lie in a complex interplay of factors, including weak institutions, lack of term limits, and inadequate checks on power. Whatever the reasons, the consequences are clear: stagnation, poverty, and disillusionment among the populace.

In conclusion, the sentiments shared by my mother of blessed memory, offer a profound insight into the human experience. By recognising the value of limitations and the potential pitfalls of possession, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for life’s moments and relationships. As the ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus, said, “Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our happiness.” By embracing the beauty of restraint and the value of scarcity, we can find true fulfilment in life’s simple pleasures. Ultimately, it’s time for us to reevaluate our priorities and redefine what truly brings us happiness.