Simplicity. More and more it seems to me that this one word holds the key to a happier, more meaningful life. Simplicity in diet, exercise, lifestyle and needs - to want less and own little. There is much that we may desire but actual little that we truly need and perhaps a clear distinction between the two would cause a world of difference in not just how we live our lives but how long we live our lives. Author Dan Buettner discusses this in his book Blue Zones and it's a fascinating read. Of course simplicity doesn't necessary mean swearing off all luxuries of life. Or even most luxuries. It means paring down to the essentials and then living a life where meaning takes precedence over possessions. It means happiness, true happiness is our priority. Simplicity is the doorway to spirituality. Every major religion teaches though and none perhaps so eloquently and succinctly as the Tao Te Jing. The Tao itself is the way to simplicity. The Tao is simplicity.
So in our busy lives where the vast majority may not wish to give up their possessions and flee to the forest to live a life of austerity - is there a means to a simplified life? I think so. I hope to find to find it.
Peace,
Eric
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