I understand how simple living feels mediocre to many of us individually. We get a lot of messaging to strive and dream and do. We all feel the weight of that push. Some of us use that pressure and let it align us with what we’re meant to do and create. I think some of us are here to be. Messaging to strive and do can feel like ulcerous pressure that’s not aligned with our purpose. That always feels challenging.
We live seasonally. We may have seasons of action. Ideally, there would be some seasons where we move more slowly. Some of us might extend that pace from season to the expanse of our life.
I think the undiscussed aspect of much striving is a path of destruction left behind. When we’re busy achieving goals it’s highly likely we can’t sufficiently tend relationships. We’ll devour resources, burn gas, buy quick food while out, and consume technology to spread our work. Often, striving involves reaching for higher rungs in institutions and structures that we don’t even find to be equitable or just.
Slow, simple living is more often in balance with our environments. There’s time to grow your own food. There are enough hours to cook it. There’s patience to be present with the humans in our midst.
Most of us can think of central figures in our life who shored up some internal world and these were often those who were living slowly— our grandparents, a teacher, or a neighbor. I think they’re often elders because they are the people in the season of living more slowly and therefore have the time and attention to give us when we greatly need what they offer.
Most people throughout time and geography have lived slower and more simply within the confines of their environment. There are limits and frustrations. The pace doesn’t always align with an inner drive. But sometimes it does. And not apologizing for that alignment but rather sinking in fully, can be a wise and important counterweight to the overwhelming pressure of this moment to do and be more.
No comments:
Post a Comment