Beyond the Printer — From Owning Things to Using What We Need — 2026/6/8 (Mon)

Today, I had a rare occasion to prepare several documents by hand.

At one point, I needed copies and asked the front desk staff at my residence for help. I learned that both A3 and A4 copies cost only 10 yen each. I had used this service before, and once again the staff handled everything kindly and efficiently.

That simple experience made me stop and think.

For many years, I lived in a home where having a printer was simply taken for granted.

My husband enjoys technology and office equipment, so we always had good printers and computers at home. Because paper and ink were always available, I rarely thought about the actual cost or effort involved.

I once bought an inexpensive printer for my own use, but I did not use it often. Eventually, the ink dried up and the printer stopped working properly. Looking back, I realized that I understood how convenient a printer could be, but I had never really understood that it needed regular use and maintenance to stay useful.

Since moving to Matsuyama, I have access to services that allow me to make copies whenever I need them. I do not need to store paper, replace ink, or worry about repairs.

Today's 10-yen copy felt like much more than a simple copy.

It reminded me that owning something and having access to it are not always the same thing.

In the past, I believed convenience meant having things at home. Now I am beginning to see that being able to use something when needed can be just as convenient.

Perhaps this idea applies to more than printers.

As life changes and we grow older, what we truly need may also change.

Today, a simple trip to the copier gave me an opportunity to reflect on that.

#Matsuyama #EdenGardenMatsuyama #LifeReflection #SimpleLiving #SeniorLife #MinimalLiving #EverydayDiscoveries #LifeInJapan #ThoughtsOfTheDay #LifestyleChange #LivingWithLess #AgingGracefully #DailyLife #NewBeginnings #KanonNotes