Voluntary Simplicity Series

Session 1:  Living Simply

The world is not enough for our current pattern of consumption.  If we are to maintain the integrity of the Earth as a living system, we need deep and creative changes in our living and consuming.  With lifestyles of conscious simplicity, we can reduce our desire for material goods and seek our riches in caring families, friendships, reverence for nature, meaningful work, exuberant play, social contribution, collaboration across generations, local community and creative arts.

Session 2:  Busyness

In our society, busyness is often worn as a status symbol, showing how important and industrious we are.  Doing more, seems so much better than doing less.  But the busyness of our lives, the “too-muchness”, can make us feel continually  stressed, overwhelmed, and pressed for time.  When we don’t have time for the things we most value, then our lives are out of balance.   If we choose to invest our time in the things that matter most, our leisure will be abundant.  Then  we can develop the life of the spirit, of reflection, of religion, of the arts, and the full realization of the good things of the world.

Session 3:  Consume Less, Create More

Society has given us a very narrow roll to play:  The consumer in “consumer culture”.  The satisfaction of buying new goods soon wears off leaving another itch to be satisfied by more purchasing and more things.  Lather, rinse, repeat, diminishes people and the environment.  People who should be expressed as creators, artists, organizers, friends, and healers need to ask ourselves, “Do we really need this?”

Session 4:  Technology

Got FOMO?  The ever-present digital distraction in our pockets, the “Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO)” has emerged as an almost infectious cultural tension.  As a cousin to boredom, FOMO drives us to persistently check mail, log on to social media, and explore the internet.  Real connection requires real presence.  Real presence happens when we are fully listening, fully engaged.  We can engage as communication humans by taking back control.  The reports of world affairs are endless, they only end when we stop them.

Session 5:  Media

Trying to resist consumer culture? News media and marketing messages you see and hear everyday promote materialism and influence what we think is normal, what we want, and who we want to be.  We often uncritically consume these messages, unaware of their power or intent. Realizing the fact that media products are constructed with a definite purpose in mind, being aware that the audience is party to the message, and knowing that the message has commercial, social and political implications delivered in a unique way, are vital skills for living simply in the media age.

Session 6:  Summary

Choosing to live simply is a conscious choice.  Consumption of goods and services is necessary but excessive consumption is not.  Life can be better lived and enjoyed more by rejecting it.  Living simply builds the better world in which all our children will call home.