In Vogue

Once I went into a departmental store to buy a commodity. I was surprised at how many brands of that commodity I could find in the market. Finding different brands was one thing, making up my mind about which one to settle for was another. One of the store attendants walked up to me and I soon discovered he had sensed my confused state from afar.

“They are all nice brands but pick this one. It’s in vogue”, he assured.

Of course, it was in vogue. I remember watching the ad on TV the other day. How amusing it was! The radio advert was quite humorous as well. No one should forget such comedy in a hurry. But the expression ‘in vogue’ which the store attendant uttered sealed the deal. My mind was made up and I was ready to settle for what was in vogue. If only to feel among, I was more ready to spend my money on that particular brand.

Two weeks later, I became disappointed at the product. The ‘in-vogue’ brand failed to meet my need! As human beings, there are so many behaviours, accessories, properties, careers etc. that are in vogue –indeed very popular- but aren’t exactly what we need. Only God knows how many things we have dabbled into just because we want to measure up with our friends and colleagues. Apostle Paul’s words come to mind –“All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12). The fact that everyone does or has it isn’t enough reason to get something. Sometimes, it may be necessary to ask yourself if what you desire is really a want or a need. I guess that will help one to set priorities right.

So when next you desire a commodity, career, property or whatever thing is in vogue, ask yourself again and again, ‘is it a want or a need or just something in vogue?’