simplicity, gratitude, generosity

“Aware of the poverty and greed in the world and of the intrinsic abundance of the earth, I stand in the presence of the ancestors, the earth, and future generations and vow to cultivate the simplicity, gratitude and generosity that have no limits.”

Rosemary Lynch and Mary Litell, Peace Grows! Pace e Bene

There is no shortage of anything in this world except, perhaps, love.  The misconception of a world without enough is the result of too many people wanting too much unimportant stuff.  Predicted shortages of food can be easily resolved if government subsidized mega-food industries are held accountable for the resources they consume and the ecology they destroy to produce highly profitable protein for our tables.

But ultimately, we are responsible.  I am responsible for shedding exaggerated beliefs of what I need to not only survive, but thrive in today’s world whether it be foodstuffs or consumer goods.  Living simply does not equate to going without; rather, it is a commitment to joyously appreciate each new day with words of thanksgiving for the earth’s abundance and generosity and then sharing that abundance cheerfully.

In words attributed to Gandhi – “live simply so that others may simply live.”