This is a really interesting thread, but if you have lost everything in some calamity, you get that stuff is stuff. The important things might be the journals, the photos and yes, to family members, the quilts (artwork). Everything else is just stuff - maybe you loved it, maybe you just didn't feel the need to spend more money to replace it?
I love auctions, but given that I will be downsizing, don't need anything, so I just go along with my sister. While I really need new furniture, I hesitate because I always have to think...will this fit into a smaller place and what will I get rid of to make space for it? What I hate about auctions and estate sales is the other customers. You know the ones who loudly proclaim something as junk or crap. Given that the owner of the stuff might be right there, doesn't say much for the manners of folks in the area. If you don't want it, why not keep it to yourself?