What comes first - simplicity or spirituality? One does not usually happen without the other. It is a chicken and egg scenario - I believe simplicity reinforces a sense of spirituality and spiritual beliefs give way to values of simple living.
Please notice - this photograph of inspiring landscape, found on flickr, costs nothing. I have changed consciously since I moved to Northern Virginia from 5 acres and 5,000 feet to two bedrooms and a small porch.
In the past I lived for my Connecticut colonial home - constantly in motion maintaining the house, the property, the gardens, the window boxes and such. It was a great joy, and while I love decorating with vintage flea market finds, at this point in my life I don't relish in the never ending maintenance - instead I want to spend the time with my daughters, carve out free time to take long walks around the nearby lake without worrying about returning to weed. Freedom from the "must-dos" allows me to take time to engage in meaningful conversation with friends, to write and to live along spiritual lines.
I'm practicing Yoga in my small space alone in quiet meditation instead of paying $ for crowded Yoga classes where everyone wears expensive all-natural fiber clothes. When did Yoga turn into a fashion show? A tank top, shorts and bare feet is all I need. Or for embracing a summer day - a simple sundress. Easy.
Perhaps we convince ourselves at times that our way is the only way based on our financial income - we do without because we have to - or we spend because we have it and want to be perceived a certain way. The real question lies in this - when you "have it" how will you live? Will you simplify or complicate?
A book I always go back to is "Choosing Simplicity: Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World." In the chapter called "Having Enough" I read this passage when I need a basic reminder that I already have all I need (and it comes from within).
"One's expenses drop dramatically when one seriously examines the impact of consumption on one's spirit, the earth, other people and one's time. In that sense, reducing expenses is easy, since we see the true costs of our actions."
To be honest and truthful, this was not always the case for me. I spent many times without thinking - or thinking having and accumulating would bring a form of happiness but the relief is fast and fleeting - the void is never filled. Today that emptiness or hole can be filled with mindfulness and serenity instead of materialism and wanting.
Learn more about simplicity and spirituality by joining The Simple Grace Program. Please contact me if you'd like more information or to register today. My email is: bethjannery@gmail.com
