Many people choose simple living because it enables them to work less, and isn't working less a goal for most of us?
For Linda and I one of the main benefits of our simple lifestyle is that it enables us to have the freedom for me to be Linda's full time caregiver (she has MS). I can't think of a better way for me to expend my energy than intimately caring for the person I love the most.
And yet a lot of people are still uncomfortable with me 'not working' or not having a "job". I guess this is because we have been brainwashed to believe that if you are not getting paid, you are not really doing anything of value (which means adding to the GDP).
It is telling that international human rights law does not recognize the refusal of work, or right not to work by itself, except the right to strike. Since there are few alternatives to conventional 'work' one is more or less forced to submit to wage slavery. It's 'get a job' or die.
I tend to resist things when I am told that I don't have any other choice. I don't want a 'job'. I have a job, and it's called life. That keeps me busy enough, thank you very much.
Work sucks. If it didn't, lottery tickets, ponzi schemes, retirement, and being in management wouldn't be so popular.
Maintaining a simple life gives one freedom from work. Spend less = work less = live more.
I just had a cup of yogi tea where the little peice of paper at the end of the string said: "You are not for sale", and then I read this post! Maybe the universe is trying to tell me something.. Thanks for an inspiriring and great blog!:)
ReplyDeleteThe Universe has wisdom... and a sense of humour!
DeleteThis is such a great post, and I really like this blog in general. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteWe are glad you are with us.
DeleteIt is all a matter of perspective. I love what I do. Homeschooling my kids, making healthy meals, gardening, sewing, and teaching my kids life and relationship skills in addition to regular curriculum and how to be happy,healthy, balanced individuals. Yes, we often get treated like we're some sort of freaks by others, and my brother endearingly calls me a stay-at-home bum. But as a family we wouldn't do it any other way. There is much more life satisfaction from looking after each other, working through the tough times together and being able to share our accomplishments with one another. Jobs are important to meet basic needs, and if you want something you can go out and earn the money for it or learn to make it yourself. But I think people need to understand that their job or career is not their entire identity. There is much more to life.
ReplyDeleteIf you are freaks, I want to be a freak. What is more important than raising children and caring for each other? THAT is life. Everything else is just details.
DeleteYou sound like wealthy people, in the best sense of the word.