An interesting and organic thing has happened to the extra shelf-space (or the clothes folding shelf?) in the laundry room at my apartment. I think it began before I moved in, but one afternoon I noticed someone left a stack of books, a small whiteboard, some plates and a pot there. It certainly didn't seem like anyone was planning to come back for them. I took some of the books that looked interesting. At later times I would go back there and notice all manner of things- kitchen appliances, flatware, cd-cases, etc. It was apparently somewhere people left things they did not want or could not take with them on their moves out. Now-a-days however, the selection of things is a lot more varied- and most strikingly not always in large bunches. Tonight I was there and there was only a pair of high heels, a trashy love novel, some female jeans and a sweater. Perhaps these are special things someone wanted to give away- not just give up.
I am always trying to reduce my worldly possessions, and I frequently find myself with things that are too nice to throw away, but that I really don't need or use. Now I know the perfect place where I can leave it as a free, anonymous gift to a stranger. I like to think that other people are doing the same. It is a wonderful mystery exchange that makes all parties happy and saves a lot of space in landfills.
A system like this could not have been better planned. I guess the people living here just know what to do.
