Web Sites Of The Month

Keeping It Simple

This article in the Christian Science Monitor provides food for thought on the philosophy of "Voluntary Simplicity." It contains parts of an interview with Cecile Andrews, author of "The Circle of Simplicity" and her views on what the movement is all about.

The Simple Living Network

This site is a conglomeration of resources to explore voluntary simplicity Although it does feel a bit like a marketplace, there is a section that goes over the nine steps discussed in the book called "Your Money Or Your Life." The nine steps are for transforming your relationship with money and achieving financial independence in accordance with simplicity values. To find out more about this book, click below:

The Simplicity Resource Guide

Didn't like the last two sites? Don't worry. This site explores the concept of simplicity at various levels. From money, work, housing to community. Definitely visit the community page. The conversation cafes are inspiring. There's bound to be something in this resource for every person whether you want an austere simplicity or merely just wanting to learn more.

Higher Self Tech: Reclaiming Our Focus

Today it's not too uncommon to even see adults being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Whether these are individuals that are being misdiagnosed, it begs the question: Why do so many people in our culture now have trouble paying attention? Learning how to concentrate is as simple as learning to meditate, however, to do that one must first turn off all the external distractions.

When I am on the mass transit system, I often see people with Ipod plugs in their ears while they are reading from books or newspapers. I sometimes even see coworkers walking around with those little white ear plugs as if the noise from the copiers, fax machines, and heating systems weren't enough distraction. Instead of 'turning on, tuning out, and mentally dropping out of life,' wouldn't it be simpler just to learn how to turn off the distractions, tune in to your Self, and begin to really focus on your life?

So, this month's exercise is going to sound real simple, but I promise you, it will not be. It's really, really simple. Put down the Ipod. Don't answer your cell phone while you're driving. Don't answer it when you're in public. It does have voicemail after all. Don't read and watch the tv at the same time. Don't eat and watch the tv at the same time. Don't drive and listen to the radio at the same time. Simply choose to simplify some small portion of your life. It doesn't have to be whole hog. It can be just one small portion.

As for me, I sometimes turn the radio off while I'm driving 45 minutes to work. It's amazing what you can hear when music isn't blaring in your ear. If I am talking with someone and three other people are in the office, I shut the door. That person really does deserve my full attention, don't they? I've cut the cable and satellite and watch only DVDs and tapes every so often. Why? Because I don't have to share my viewing time with advertisers, that's why. I visit friends instead and we chat. The point is to simplify the small actions in your life and soon the big ticket items become second nature. And, also, do take time to meditate once you've managed to turn off all the distractions and tuned into Self. It's really a wonderful way to enjoy the silence.

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