Interested in a life of less distraction, less clutter, but more focus, and as a result, more Joy? The life I speak of is one that goes by many names and has many variations, but the term most commonly used is “Minimalism”.
This group is for people who either practice a life of Minimalism, or are curious and/or interested in doing so.
The purpose is to commune, educate and share experiences. To support and assist each other on our journey through this lifestyle practice.
It is commonly known that Minimalism is about decluttering ones life of possessions that don’t add value to their lives. But THAT is just the beginning. Our meetups will also be focusing on purging ourselves of toxic habits, people, time wasting activities. Even more importantly, we will be discussing how to develop the things in our lives that DO add value: Health, Relationships, Passion.
You see, Minimalism is not just about “downsizing”, it’s about getting the most out of the important things in life.
To sign up for event on March 3rd 2021 (7:00PM), go to Meetup.com at the following link: “True Value”
So ….. I saw this meme on social media this weekend. It upset me greatly. It upset me because it was a rude reminder that we have a long way to go as a species toward getting our values in order. A long way toward reaching good character as a whole. There is so much that upsets me about it an not all of it is relevant for this page, so I’ll try to keep it slim to only what is relevant. Here is the meme:
Here are the issues (starting with the simplest).
- It avoids the initial question
- “Shoot” doesn’t necessarily mean “shoot to kill”, but of course that didn’t occur to them, as they were just looking for an excuse to kill someone from the get go.
- I can’t believe this needs to be said, but what happened to the basic value “Love thy neighbor”. A value SO basic, and responsibility so high that it supersedes all other personal desires, including the preservation of our …….. stuff.
This is the America we live in. People are willing to kill to protect their hoard.
A satisfying life of righteous purpose starts with a strong morale core. This is true no matter what lifestyle we choose to lead.
I can’t speak for everyone, but up here in mid-state NY I suffer winter depression. After the Holiday season, into the new year, I just get down in the dumps. The lack of sunlight combined with cold temperatures means there will be no spending time outdoors for me. This kills me inside because I LOVE the outdoors.
NOW …. during a pandemic, we really don’t have the option for indoor activities outside our homes either. This just amplifies the depression something fierce.
While I can’t speak for everybody, I believe I can speak for many of you out there. Winter depression is not uncommon.
Fortunately, there are practices which I have used recently that help to cure this depression:
- Socialize! People are depressed now more than ever during this pandemic because more than ever we are not communicating with each other. We are instead finding solace in social media (which is a BIG DISASTER if done without intent). Just because we have to maintain social distancing doesn’t mean we have to be strangers. There are many digital platforms to permit us to be social beings again (Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Discord, etc.). I suggest we all become not only familiar with some of these, but second nature with them.
- Meditation. This is not the first time I mentioned this. Meditation practice help one be more mindful and more aware of themselves. It calms the mind so it can cure itself. Meditation sessions can be found free online in YouTube, Facebook, and other channels.
- Yoga. No different than meditation.
- Exercising. Make a regiment of it. Whether it is weight lifting in the basement/garage or hitting the peloton three times a week, DO IT. Always people are amazed at how quickly doing good has us feeling good.
- Gaming – Take on a new hobby of gaming. Whether it is online, or at home with family, this is a healthy way to keep us challenged and social.
- Read. I felt I had to put this on the list. While reading is difficult while in a state of depression (lack of focus), it is still an activity that might take us away from our thoughts.
Hang in there folks, we have two more months to go.
