Why Simplify?

With too much “stuff” piled on our shelves, written on our calendars and whirling through our minds, life can start to feel complicated. Suddenly there is much to worry about, and hardly any time for anything. And then I start to notice—more fighting, more crying, more tension in the house— and I understand deeply that we’re sliding off track. In those moments, I know that it’s time to make some changes.

It’s time to simplify.

At the end of the day, I am seeking a peaceful life. I want to create a peaceful life for my family. I want a home that welcomes us and shelters us from the craziness and busyness of the outside world. I want to notice nature’s changes and cycles and feel my connection to them, to know my place in the universe. I want our time to be for the pure joys of living and playing and exploring. And when there is conflict (and there will be conflict) I want us to know how to find calm and compassion so they may guide us back to each other.

I do believe that when we strip away all of the excess- thoughts, commitments, toys, noise, stress- we discover that what we are seeking has been here all along- the comfortable home, the connection with nature, time to enjoy life, calmness and compassion. Yes, the peaceful life is already here, underneath all of the “stuff” that gets in the way. So let’s clear it all away (and learn to keep it away!) so each day can be an expression of our family’s true purpose.