Interesting topic. I think frugality is a microcosm of a larger ideology of being happy with what you have and what you need (which in western culture usually means being happy with less). Personally, I consider myself to be pretty frugal, although I will blow money on stupid things if I find value in it. At the end of the day I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything because I either didn't really need it to be happy, or it wasn't worth the extra cost.
Having kids has also changed my perspective on spending. We used to spoil them with toys (and probably still do), but we've realized that's not what they want (or need) in order to be happy. Similarly, things like a big house, nice car, and expensive trips mean absolutely nothing to a kid -- it's not like they'll care or remember when all is said and done.
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