Wow... I think we had a beautiful lesson reading this thread. I'm not a collector.... no more.
I accidentally started. I wanted to have as many experiences as possible. So, I didn't sell them, because I wanted to compare them with the other new ones I was going to buy. The aim was "find the perfect light".
At some point, I realized I had too much flashlights. And, I also realized that I wasn't spending some time with my family. So, I sold almost all of my collection, changed my car, bought some useful things (non flashlights) and today I live by the minimalistic motto.
Still focusin experiences, but careful not to lose the way.
PS: Maybe my signature shows otherwise. Living minimalism is a challenge. I still can't get away from it all. As someone else said here, the hobby brought me good friends who are here today and forever.