I met an old couple once who'd escaped Communist Rumania, I think it was. The last winter they were there, it was so cold and supplies so non-existent, that they actually did burn their entire personal library, save for a few books which they could carry with them.

It seemed so sad, but they were so happy and had totally let go of any materialism. They are the only people I've ever met whom I consider to have been living in a real state of Grace, totally living in the moment, for the moment, with no attachments except their connection to what they considered the Cosmic.

I admired them greatly, but I have not reached that point. I'd have to die if my old violin was the last thing left to burn. It wouldn't last long or make much of a difference anyway.

kat