Thanks for all your input, ladies. Who knew a couple pairs of shoes could inspire such debate? I don't really see it as a moral decision but as someone who tries to resist materialism, I understand that perspective. But we are just talking shoes, here, and relatively inexpensive ones at that. As it stands now, I haven't purchased either the black or the red. Knowing me, I'll think on it for a while, place one or both of them in the "cart" several times and never buy either. That's often my version of virtual shopping.
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher