Well, if it makes you feel better about the summer homes, the owners have probably been toiling away in Boston law firms for years, and you and your wife are much happier than they are. Just think: They’re barely able to enjoy the house they’re striving to pay for!

But more seriously, you’re quite correct that excessive consumption causes a multitude of problems, for the person, for the environment, and, through the opportunity cost, for others who might otherwise have been helped.

Best wishes,
Rob.