A Simpler Life

I think God may be trying to get my attention. On Tuesday, after not thinking about it for years, the melody and words to a song popped into my head. “Tis a gift to be simple, tis a gift to be free . . .”

Less than 24 hours later, I attended an advent service at my church. The theme for the season? “Simplicity.” And one of the songs we sang that evening? You got it. “Tis a gift to be simple, tis a gift to be free . . .”

“Okay, Lord. I get it. But how???”

It’s not that I don’t want a simpler life. It’s just that—well, you know—I have things to do, places to go, people to meet!

My daughter, Ana, sent me photos of Giethoorn, a village with no roads in the Dutch province of Overijssel. All transportation is done via boats, with the exception of a cycling path.

The photos depict a beautiful and serene place, where very likely, people live a simpler life. There are no crazy drivers in cars cutting people off on the highway. No stoplights every block to add to the frustration.

Why is it that Americans have become so obsessed with working harder, faster, and longer? Why are we so driven to succeed and prove ourselves worthy? And worthy of what? And why is it that other countries have learned the art of taking life at a slower pace?

When I get a little harried, I’m going to look at these photos, take in the peaceful beauty, and ask for God’s direction in living with more simplicity.

How about you? Do you yearn for a simpler life?

Dawn

A Village with No Roads