How do you simplify your life? I love simple living—I think. Last week we went camping, and I thought about simplicity. A lot of things I packed were never used, but I wanted them “just in case.” The crocheting was ignored, and the lake was too cold for my swimsuit.

I left most things at home–my computer, day planner, TV, and hot, running water. However, I don’t think I would want to live long term without these wonderful additions to my life. I just can’t have them dominating my days.

So does living a simple life mean eating out of my garden and riding my bike to the grocery store? Do I curl up with a good book every evening and throw the TV out with the water heater? Why do such pictures pop into my head when I think of simplicity?

I recently read a quote by Mary Gregory that put the whole subject into perspective for me. “Simplicity does not mean getting rid of all of your possessions, but rather integrating them into your life’s purpose.”

I like that. Things, activities, amusements, and obligations that contribute to my life purpose need to remain. Everything else has to go. Guess I’d better start cleaning out those closets, scratch out some stuff on my day planner, and learn to say, “No, that isn’t going to work for me right now, but thank you for asking.”

What are your thoughts on living a simple life?

In Him together, Susan Gaddis