THE SIMPLE LIFE
The simple life begins in the heart. It is lived from the inside out and casts its light
on the world about us. It cannot be any other way.
It is a state of mind that focuses on the important matters of our lives, helping us
to avoid the clutter of external influences and distractions. The simple life requires
a strong sense of self to prevent others, as well as possessions and social status,
from defining whom we are.
In 2008 I took my first trip to Italy, and fell in love with the Italian countryside and the small villages and cities clinging, almost desperately, to the sides of mountains and hills. The one word reverberating in my mind for the entire trip was “simplicity”, reinforcing the attitude that had been building within me over the past year.
Life appeared to be simple in these small villages where the outward needs of the people seemed to be minimal, at least in terms of housing, cars, and other life accessories that Americans deem necessary. They knew how to enjoy life, and throughout the country, in cities and towns of all sizes, their love of food wine, family, and companionship was obvious. I was deeply impressed by this and wondered how I could incorporate this experience into my quest for a simpler life here in Paducah. Slowly, I came to realize that finding enjoyment and pleasure in daily routine activities is essential for the simple life. It means being grateful for the gifts we have: our health, a home, a loving family, friends, and the endless bounties that so many people can only dream about.
In 2008 I took my first trip to Italy, and fell in love with the Italian countryside and the small villages and cities clinging, almost desperately, to the sides of mountains and hills. The one word reverberating in my mind for the entire trip was “simplicity”, reinforcing the attitude that had been building within me over the past year.
Life appeared to be simple in these small villages where the outward needs of the people seemed to be minimal, at least in terms of housing, cars, and other life accessories that Americans deem necessary. They knew how to enjoy life, and throughout the country, in cities and towns of all sizes, their love of food wine, family, and companionship was obvious. I was deeply impressed by this and wondered how I could incorporate this experience into my quest for a simpler life here in Paducah. Slowly, I came to realize that finding enjoyment and pleasure in daily routine activities is essential for the simple life. It means being grateful for the gifts we have: our health, a home, a loving family, friends, and the endless bounties that so many people can only dream about.
The simple life comes from simple pleasures.
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