Our lives are often complicated. We rush through each day in a blur of busyness. Remember when we were children and everything seemed so simple? Maybe its time to practice the Art of Simplicity.
The first step? Slow down. Take time to look at the big picture. Consider the old phrase, “Will this matter 100 years from now?” We get caught up in projects and responsibilities, deadlines and headlines. What is truly important to you?
I had a short conversation with a friendly clerk at a local drug store a few weeks ago. He took the time to chat while I made my purchase. And shared his mantra upon arriving at a certain age in his life. “I decided I’m not going to rush anymore. I’m taking the time to enjoy life.” He chatted with each customer while still ringing up their purchases. There were no long lines, he still managed to get his work done. Kudos to him on his journey to simplicity.
The best advice I can offer is to start cultivating the art of simplicity by spending time with Jesus. If we take those moments to cast all our cares upon Him and allow the peace of God to rule in our hearts, we will find our simplicity.
How do you practice the art of simplicity?
In what areas of your life do you need to simplify?
Hi Cynthia, you are always drawing me back to your lovely blog with your topics that seem to hit me right where I need it! Simplify is my work for this year, and I have only made a very small dent in all the stuff I need to simplify, but I do start each day in quiet time with the Lord, and that helps.
I love the idea of not rushing anymore, just enjoying whatever you are doing. I think I’ll try that today!
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Comment by Rose McCauley — February 23, 2013
Rose,
I’m so glad you are relating to the topics! I’ve been thinking a lot about simplicity and organization which seem to go hand in hand. Want to address this more in some blog posts. I know we all want to be productive and feel useful, but somewhere along the way we get caught in the rush. Tired of rushing! Enjoy your day and “live in the moment” : )
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Comment by admin — February 23, 2013
This philosophy came in handy when I was raising my girls. “Will it matter in 10 years?” When my youngest daughter was 7 yrs old, she asked me if she could dye her hair orange. I thought, “will it matter?” and promptly offered to help her. It certainly minimized the arguments and, when I said no, they knew it was important.
Life’s a lot simplier when you don’t make a big deal out of everything. Let God set priorities!
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Comment by Sherry — February 26, 2013
Sherry,
LOL…orange?
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Comment by admin — February 27, 2013
I’m learning to embrace simplicity, giving away many possessions and living one day at a time. And spending more time in the Lord’s presence.
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Comment by Sharon — March 19, 2013
Yes, Sharon. You have inspired me before to continue to get rid of “stuff.” Today’s a good snow day to work on de-cluttering some more. And nothing can be more treasured than spending time with the Lord!
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Comment by admin — March 19, 2013