Normally I am not one who enjoys shopping. From the time I was a teenager I have always hated going to stores. Spending a lot of time looking for something only to come home empty-handed. Either it's too expensive, or doesn't come in my size.I never saw the pleasure in it.
Today I had a unique experience. Today I decided to go shopping in Monsey, NY. Why there? Because the likelihood of my finding something "kosher" to wear at a respectable price is pretty high in a town like Monsey. (Monsey is the Jerusalem of NY for those unfamiliar with that area.) So, I decided to take the coupon I received in the mail and head north. I went early to avoid any potential crowds...something else I hate about shopping.
Luckily, I found three skirts that I liked, fit well, and were in my price range. No mess. No fuss. I arrived at the counter to pay and started to speak with the cashier. I could tell she wasn't from NY based on her accent and congeniality (sorry, NY'ers aren't known for their warmth). She told me where she was from (the Midwest) and how she missed it and wished she could move back. I told her how I wanted to leave NJ and before you knew it we had something in common that didn't involve clothes.
She told me of her frustrations with living in this area, ie trying to keep up financially, and I replied with an 'Amen!' While it's nice not having to ship your kids off to another state for a Jewish education (something NY/NJ has an abundance), it can be incredibly stressful trying to keep up with the expense of living an orthodox lifestyle in a very expensive area.
I didn't want to cause a delay at the cash register so we ended our pleasant conversation.
It's comforting to know that I'm not the only one who feels that way. It's hard to believe there are others who share your opinion when you are so wrapped up with life that there's no time to stop and commiserate with others.
I guess I learned a valuable lesson today...shopping is therapeutic!
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