The Art of Denial

Being an Orthodox Jew really helps perfect one's skills in self-denial. This is something that I've thought about a lot. There really isn't much that you can just do, no questions asked. Everything is regulated, from what you wear to what you eat, how you eat, who you talk to and what you say, who you touch, everything.
I guess it probably seems restrictive and overwhelming to anyone living the typical American irreligious (notice I didn't say amoral) lifestyle. And there were times in my life where everything felt especially prohibitive ( i.e. high school).
But, and I can't say that everyone living this way would agree with me, there is something to be said for actively denying yourself the pleasures in life. I'm not talking about living the life of a monk, shutting out the world and its beauty, its colors and sounds. I'm no fan of asceticism. We were definitely given this world for a reason and it's silly not to recognize, appreciate, and use what G-d gave us. What I do mean is, well, I am that person that saves her favorite color M & M for last. The one who pushes off reading her favorite book, watching that long awaited Netflix movie, and saves that new pair of hot shoes for a really special occasion. I am anti-instant gratification. I like to....savor.
And doesn't it make that much sweeter? That first music note in my ears on Lag Ba'Omer, that first lick of ice cream after 6 hours of salivating over the Haagen Dasz in the freezer. Finally being able to check your email after a 3 day Yom Tov. That first kiss, the first one ever or that first one after two long weeks. It's kind of like that old Heinz commercial . The best things come to those who wait.