When It Comes To Epitaphs, Keep It Simple

How would you like to be remembered after you are gone?

Author Dean Koontz's advice for keeping it simple are words I could borrow for the epitaph on my gravestone after I leave this body. 

It describes my approach to things nicely.

''Stay low,

Stay quiet,

Keep it simple,

Don't expect much,

Enjoy what 

you have.''

These words resonate with me, and although I have not yet enjoyed any of his works, I am told they reflect Koontz's writing themes of humility, resilience, and appreciation for life's simple joys.  

His words convey a humble and down-to-earth philosophy by which I strive to live.

The elevator version would be something like:

Appreciate the simple things
Set realistic expectations
Find joy in what you already have, and
Live life with modesty and humility

While I am still around, I strive to:

Stay grounded 
Be content, and
Cherish life's quiet moments

Do you have an epitaph in mind for your own headstone, perhaps something simple living-themed? 

Too morbid?

If not, come up with your own epitaph, and share it with us in the comments below.

Here are a few real life examples for inspiration:

"She lived each day with joy" (Ruth A. Miller, 1925-2011)  

 

"A leaf on the wind" (Ray Bradbury, 1920-2012)

 

"Do no harm" (Thomas F. Bayard, 1828-1898)

 

"Love is eternal" (Henry D. Thoreau's family epitaph)

Of course, writing your epitaph is the easy part. The challenge is to also have a plan to live up to those words while we are still here.

The Power of Resisting: How Not Buying Anything Can Foster Resilience and Self-Reliance

Consumerism turns us into zombies.

In a world where consumerism reigns supreme, the notion of not buying anything can seem radical, even unthinkable. Yet, embracing this counterintuitive approach can be a powerful catalyst for building resilience and self-reliance.
By intentionally abstaining from purchases, we open ourselves up to a transformative process that challenges our values, habits, and relationship with material possessions. Resisting is empowering.

This joyful journey is not just about saving money or reducing waste; it's about cultivating inner strength, creativity, and a deeper connection to ourselves and our communities.
Breaking Free from the Grip of Consumerism

Consumerism perpetuates a cycle of dissatisfaction, fueling our desires for the latest, greatest, and trendiest. We're conditioned to seek happiness in external sources, often leaving us feeling empty and unfulfilled. 

By choosing not to buy, we:

Disrupt the cycle of desire: Recognize and resist the constant stream of advertising and social media influences.
Re-evaluate priorities: Focus on what truly adds value to our lives, rather than mere possessions.
Develop self-awareness: Understand the emotional triggers driving our purchasing decisions.

Cultivating Resilience

Not buying anything fosters resilience in several key ways:

Financial stability: Reduced expenses and debt free us from economic stress.
Resourcefulness: We learn to adapt, repair, and repurpose, developing problem-solving skills.
Emotional regulation: By resisting impulse purchases, we build self-control and emotional resilience.
Community connections: Sharing, swapping, and collaborating with others strengthens social bonds.

Nurturing Self-Reliance

As we navigate the challenges of not buying, we develop essential skills for self-reliance:

Creativity: Finding innovative solutions to everyday problems.
Self-sufficiency: Producing or repairing items instead of relying on external sources.
Patience: Embracing delayed gratification and the value of waiting.
Gratitude: Appreciating what we already possess, rather than constantly seeking more.

Practical Steps to Get Started

Track expenses: Identify areas for reduction.
Set boundaries: Establish a "no-buy" zone in your home or for specific categories.
Find alternatives: Explore free or low-cost entertainment, libraries, and community resources.
Connect with others: Join local Buy Nothing groups or online forums.

Embracing the Power of Resisting

In a world obsessed with consumption, choosing not to buy anything is a revolutionary act. By embracing this mindset, we:

Reclaim our values: Prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
Strengthen our resolve: Develop resilience and self-reliance.
Transform our communities: Foster collaboration, sharing, and mutual support.

Join the movement. Take the first step toward a more intentional, self-sufficient life. Discover the power of resisting.
Share your own "not buying anything" experiences and insights in the comments below.