I got my first pair of eyeglasses when I was six.

Nearly 40 years later, I still categorize much of my life around the style of spectacle I was wearing at the time – from nerd to aviator and academic to techno-nerd.

I also notice other people’s eye fashions.

Woody Allen has a trademark set of specs. So did Cubs play-by-play legend Harry Caray and rocker Elvis Costello. Each cashed in commercially on the look.

In the same way Warren Buffett auctioned his well-worn wallet for charity, I’m guessing Woody or Elvis could easily sell some of their prized frames for a bundle.

One glasses-wearing historic figure whose contributions to the world dwarves those of celebrity filmmakers and entertainers is Mahatma Gandhi. A pair of Windsor-style wire-rim glasses worn by the Indian independence leader is being sold at an auction this week in New York City.

Unlike celebrities, Gandhi is both the father of a free India and the inspiration for all who believe in pacifism as a pathway to peace and dignity. He was a man with few possessions, which makes the sale of his sandals, pocket watch, bowl and thali plate even more reprehensible.

In the Hindu culture, one kisses the feet of elders as a sign of respect. It’s the antithesis of hawking them to art hounds at a Manhattan auction house.

Gandhi’s eyeglasses are sentimental to me, and I am neither Hindu nor Indian. These are spectacles that Gandhi gave to an army colonel who asked for inspiration. As Gandhi handed over his glasses, he described them as the “eyes” that had given him the vision to free India.

The Press Trust of India news service has been reporting daily on legal proceedings in India to try and halt the auction. Even if successful, these would be non-binding in the United States, according to PTI.

Outside the courtroom, the Gandhi Memorial Foundation has been in fund-raising mode, hoping that the sacred belongings can be purchased and brough to India for public display.

While I fully understand the rights of the “private collector” who owns these items to cash in, my fingers are crossed that these treasures will be acquired by someone who reveres them as world treasures and affords them protection and dignity.