National Simplicity Day

12th July

Today is the birthday of transcendentalist, Henry David Thoreau, born in 1817; he was an activist and writer who believed in simplifying life to understand the individual self.

Think back to the time before technology and how you spent your time. Going outdoors wasn’t a demand or unexplored venue; it was the other room in your life before screens closed off your peripheral vision. The eco home in the woods, living off the land, may not be your bag. But, there are those who enjoy what may seem like basic pleasures.

When did you last see your father? Do you need a signal or have you lost complete connection? The no-neck monster disease is spreading daily; children and adults are looking down and out of their life, into virtual complexities consuming their measured hours.

Unplug, declutter and readdress all that is relevant; the rest is material detraction from all that you have forgotten or need to find. Subtract the excess and welcome nature and inner peace. If you were to lose everything material and start again; would you change anything? If you were wearing an internet meter instead of a fitness watch; would you mourn the non-refundable hours and days? Before books and nature become museum bound, adopt them and learn without your battery running low. Before relationships and conversations are shelved; arrange reconnection without the surcharge.