Simplicity: Outward Expressions (#1 and #2)

In Celebration of Discipline, Foster suggests ten outward expression of the inner attitudes of simplicity. These must taken as suggestions, as a help on the path to simplicity and the growth towards greater peace and not as a set of rigid propositions that "deteriorate into legalistic rules." In today's excerpt, I present the first two of the ten.

First, buy things for their usefulness rather than their status. Cars should be bought for their utility, not their prestige...Don't have more house than is reasonable... Wear your clothes until they are worn out. Stop trying to impress people with your clothes and impress them with your life.

Second, reject anything that is producing an addiction in you. Learn to distinguish between a real psychological need, like cheerful surroundings, and an addiction. Eliminate or cut down on the use of addictive, non-nutritive drinks: alcohol, coffee, tea, Coca-Cola, etc...If money has a grip on your heart, give some away and feel the release. Simplicity is freedom, not slavery.

Until next time: Live simply that others may simply live.