The Practice of Simplicity
“’Tis a gift to be simple, ‘tis a gift to be free.” So begins the first verse of a Shaker hymn written in the mid-1800’s. It’s interesting that the writer ties simplicity to freedom. For many people, freedom is the notion that we can do whatever we choose without hindrance. We think of freedom of speech to mean we can say whatever we want without consequence. Freedom of choice means we can have whatever we want without restriction. This attitude toward freedom, while common, can lead to a sense of self-centered entitlement.
The practice of simplicity takes a different stance toward freedom. Instead of viewing freedom as the ability to do/say/have whatever we want, simplicity reminds us that we are also free not to do/say/have whatever we want. It’s a humble acknowledgement that often what we want to do/say/have is, in fact, not Christ-like. By practicing simplicity, we are set free to cultivate gratitude, contentment, and generosity in our lives.
This month we are invited to seek out a simpler way of life. Below is a guide for incorporating the practice of simplicity more deeply into your journey as a disciple. Peace be with you.
Week One
One of the great temptations in our culture is to buy the newest thing solely because it’s the newest thing: a new phone, new tv, new clothes, new car. This week, simply take note of everything you are tempted to buy that you don’t need. If what you have still works, offer thanks for it, and resist the urge to replace it unnecessarily.
week two
There are many cautions against excessive speech in the Bible. Proverbs suggests that only fools run their mouths. Jesus warns against long-winded prayers. This week, pay attention to your own speech and try to practice simplicity with your words. As Jesus said, “Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ be ‘no.’ Nothing more is needed in most cases. Perhaps you can try following Anne Lamott’s guide for prayer when she writes that only three words are necessary: Help, Thanks, and Wow.
week Three
Our world is filled with more human-made sound than ever before. Cars, machines, tv, and Bluetooth earbuds fill our ears with almost continuous noise. See if you can limit some of that this week. Choose to listen to the sounds of nature when you go for a walk instead of music. Practice the simplicity of silence in the evenings before bed.
Week Four
Perhaps the easiest way to avoid accumulating and hoarding is to give things away. There is great freedom in reducing your possessions and great joy in sharing some of what you own with your neighbor. Practice simple generosity this week and bless others with gifts.