Simply put, life is better lived simply.
When I close my eyes and picture the word “simple,” my mind drifts to Bear Lake in Idaho, one of my favorite places in the world. I think of slow weekends when the small towns surrounding Bear Lake are calm and quiet. Mornings are spent walking down quiet roads and trails in the crisp air while our sweet senior beagle enjoys her walk before the heat of the day sets in. Still and slow, the world is silent as we meander, stopping often to let the lady of the house sniff and explore until her heart’s content. There's no schedule, no notifications from my phone, and no obligations vying for my attention. It's the definition of simple living.
Lately, I’ve been on a major decluttering spree, and as I clear out closets, purge, and organize, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty of simplicity. Each item I discard or donate leaves me feeling lighter, and I'm convinced that it's our souls' need for less that fuels this feeling. In a world that glamorizes material possessions and a fast-paced lifestyle, simplicity's profound beauty is often overlooked. However, when I reduce the clutter in my physical and mental space, I give myself the opportunity to appreciate the simple things around me, like a beautiful photo or a lovely view out of my window.
For me, the act of decluttering and simplifying my life feels connected to the serene solitude I feel on those quiet countryside walks. The process of trimming things back and silencing the noise allows for beauty to reveal itself. St. Rose of Lima serves as an exemplary model of simplicity. Born in Peru in 1586, she lived a simple life, serving others and rejecting material possessions and worldly pleasures in favor of a life of humility and selflessness. St. Rose's dedication to serving others and commitment to living a simple, humble life continue to inspire many today.
Now, I’m not making a case for austerity or advocating that everyone Marie-Kondo’s or Swedish-Death-Cleans their homes. It's important to remember that simplicity doesn't necessarily mean austerity or minimalism. Instead, it's about finding joy in the small things and appreciating life's simple moments that often go unnoticed. The world seems to scream at us to do, be, buy, and have more. In our busy lives, we're constantly bombarded with distractions and demands that can drown out life's simple pleasures. By clearing out the clutter and turning down the volume, we can appreciate the little things and cultivate a more profound sense of peace and contentment. Here’s to cultivating a deeper appreciation for the beauty of life and finding joy in the simple things and simple moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.