Friday, May 6, 2011

Defining "simple"

What does "simple" mean? As I sit here I have just finished with my children's school work, I can hear one building Lego, the other practising scales on his guitar, another typing away on her book and another making a snack. I can smell the beef stock simmering away on the stove. The air is hung with the smell of fresh dinner rolls, my sewing is piled up behind me and my knitting on this desk. So much to do....


My chickens are clucking away - they want to be let out (sorry girls - not today!) and my dog is eyeing me from the corner of her eye as she wants a walk...the moment I move from this chair she will start her begging dance.

Is my life simple? Not according to some....3 afternoons a week I am running around doing errands, taking children to sports and music lessons, doing my shopping and just catching up with life! The other 2 weekday afternoons I am working on clients orders or processing/making/creating more time consuming foods for my hungry family.


But what makes my life "simple" is I am singleminded in the pursuit of a quality of lifestyle for my family. People often use busy and simple as antomyns, but they are not actually. Complicated or complex lifestyles trip us up...they steal our peace and joy, leave us gasping for breath at the end of the day, complicated is the antonym for simple, not busy.

We can be very busy living simple lives :-) To me simple is:

Simple = back to basics...

Simple = food as close to natural, uncomplicated and slow.

Simple = family together, building long standing relationships

Simple = knowing God and walking with Him

Simple = fellowship with people who are on the same journey.

And you?

5 comments:

Tania said...

Hi Wendy,

Thank you for sharing your version of simple living...

My simple life consists of;

Living life with God leading the way

Being thankful for all I have

Only needs instead of wants

Homemade goodness

Growing food

Family ties

Being a stay at home wife and mother

Making do with what I have

xTania

Melanie said...

We chose a similar 'simple lifestyle' as you. You are sooo right, simple doesn't mean easy. It is a lot of work & commitment but the rewards are awesome! Our kids are all young adults now and they each have their own walks with God. It is SOOOO worth it! Keep on keeping on!!

Lois Evensen said...

What a wonderful post. Yes, simple to some is complicated to others. Live and enjoy!

Hugs,
Lois

Juanita said...

I applaud your inspirational views and thank you for sharing them!

Romany said...

Hi Wendy,

I'm from the DTE forum. I'd agree with your definition of how people use the term simple, but I'm not convinced 'simple' is the best word for it! Perhaps 'natural'? is better?