Instant gratification -not very gratifying

Instant gratification -not very gratifying

Recently I've realized in my persuit of everything vinyl that being able to get music at the moment the impulse hits me -that something is lost.

I have many reasons for avoiding the instant download of music.  I really love record stores! Ever since I was young the anticipation of a new album was so exciting.   Leafing through hundreds of titles, the artwork, and the unknown find that brought me so much joy.  I even love the smell when you opened the new tape or cd. 

I really like supporting local business.  They offer the real character and culture of the town you live in. You meet people and are supporting your neighborhood instead of huge company box stores.

When you go to a store and buy music -it's in YOUR hands.  Who hasn't been dazzled by the idea of having your whole music and book collection accessible at all times on tiny devices! Digital storage has an obvious upside.  For me though, nothing replaces holding an album or book in hand. The art, the feel, even the wear of an item.  We have a more intimate experience when we hold something in our hands.

Finally, part of the joy and excitement is found in the anticipation.  Not having something for a period of time makes the experience of obtaining it that much more gratifying.  We are losing our ability to be patient in today's culture and get frustrated easily if we don't have what we want NOW!  This is a good trend to resist in order to bare the fruit that is only found in anticipation.

I recently waited to get a couple records until I had time to get to my local store.  I ended up getting the last copy in the store. I felt a sense of accomplishment for my find!  I brought it home and unwrapped it, opened the book of art and lyrics, smelled it, and noticed the shimmer off the record as I pulled it out of the sleeve.   I put the needle on the vinyl and rocked out!  There is a digital download I will us at some point so I can carry it with me but not yet -I want to miss the music when I'm not at home.  Then, I can come home and put the needle to the vinyl and rock and roll all over again. 

Absence makes the heart grow fonder!

B