A SHATTERED IPAD AND TWO MISSING FRONT TEETH!
WOULD POPEYE SLUDGE & MISS OLIVE FIND A MIDDLE GROUND?
“WOMPY” (friend) was sad to see his two pals at such an impasse. He decided to invite them (individually) to join him at the Stamp Collectors monthly meeting (hoping they’d reconcile). At first, POPEYE SLUDGE & MISS OLIVE, were annoyed that their friend had tricked them but after noticing that the collectors were having FUN, they stuck around. As well, there were refreshments - cookies & juice! Before long they were having FUN together!
POPEYE SLUDGE & MISS OLIVE, RECALLED THEIR “SWEETHEART DEAL AGREEMENT”. HENCE,THEY “BOTH” EXPLAINED THE BENEFITS OF COLLECTING: STAMP, POSTCARD, POSTAL HISTORY, COVERS & POSTMARKS.
HERE IS WHAT THEY SAID:
Hello Collectors,
1. RELAXING
After a stressful period, I locate a quiet area and pull out my collection. Soon my mind travels to specific countries, topics or information pertaining to my collection. The stressors go away; the mind and body are now RELAXED.
2. NOT EXPENSIVE
You may have heard the “glitter” and “glamour” stories of someone’s collection selling for thousands of dollars or one stamp sold for $3.5 million at auction. That is not the rule though. The absolute truth is for a dollar or two a week or month you can purchase thousands of stamps. Join your local stamp club; go online; talk to a dealer – all without a great outlay of cash. It’s NOT EXPENSIVE.
3. SOCIALIZING
One of the best ways to meet new friends or renew old ones is through collecting. Find someone else who collects or become a member of a club. This is particularly beneficial when children of various cultural backgrounds interact. The benefits of SOCIALIZING are endless.
4. IMPROVES CONCENTRATION and FOCUS
While having FUN collecting, your concentration improves which may have positive “spin offs” in other areas. Perhaps, by learning a new language or as a youngster in school - better grades. Also, a collector can zero in on a specialized area of collecting. Collecting may IMPROVE CONCENTRATION and FOCUS.
5. CAREER PATH
Gazing at all those stamps or postcards from various countries, a child’s curiosity is peaked. They may develop a fascination with a particular occupation. Example: “Airplane Stamp” I want to be a pilot! Hockey Stamp “ I want to be a hockey player! Or depending on the stamp - an architect, engineer, travel agent, animal lover or artist, etc. Collecting can help determine your CAREER PATH.
6. EDUCATION
Behind every stamp, postcard or cover there is a story. In many cases the story behind the stamp leads to some research which leads to learning, which leads to EDUCATION.
7. PATIENCE
Stamp collecting is an enduring activity. There is really “no rush”! No need to win! No timelines! No rules! Money may have to be saved while one waits to purchase a collection or item. Also, arranging your collection, whether in a scrapbook, album or other method, develops attention to detail and creativity. PATIENCE is a skill practiced in Stamp Collecting.
8. SHOWS AND VACATION
How many times have you heard, “I’m going to combine my vacation with a stamp show”? Yes it happens! Visiting new sites is exciting! Examining a fresh fnew stock is stimulating! All this can happen while on a VACATION AND STAMP SHOW!
If you perceive individuals around you are spending too much time on their iPad or Facebook page, throw a curveball at them.
TRY STAMP COLLECTING! ITS FUN!
Take care,
John Bucci