Clumps of Dirt

Thought I’d jump right in and make a quick post.  Tonight was the first evening this season that I’ve spent in the garden.   I really enjoyed breaking up the clumps of dirt with my hands. I was amazed that this little activity could be so therapeutic. As the clumps of dirt broke down,  I sifted through the clumps in my mind that needed breaking down. After a few hours, I felt so peaceful. Gardening is wonderful  medicine for our soul. Give it a try.

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Thinking About My Values

I read this book this week – Living the Quaker Way. It’s a new ebook at my local library. I dont really know much about Quakerism so I thought I would give it a go. I found the book quite thought provoking. I also found that I share the same values. It was refreshing for me to get a glimpse of how certain ideals are lived out in the world and in a faith community. The author doesn’t try to convert the reader to Quakerism. He simply encourages one to live up to certain ideals – simplicity; peace; integrity; community; and equality. Its an easy read really.  I sure recommend this book.

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Pen and Paper

” The palest ink lasts longer than the finest memory.”

Every year my husband and I take two days to do business planning and set goals. Before we set our goals we read a few of our favorite articles that we’ve saved over the years. Today, as I was reading one of the articles by Brian Tracy, I read this quote ” The palest ink lasts longer than the finest memory.”  It’s a Chinese quote.  It made me think how important it is to write things down and not rely on my memory. You know, I have note books scattered around my house & in my office. I keep one in my purse also. I like to use a notebook when I want to remember a bit of information like: a book title; an upcoming event; my family history; a blog idea; a phone call I need to make; etc. I’ve referred to my notebooks/pads over and over.  I also keep them once they are full. I’ve referred to something long afterward I’ve recorded it and the books been put on a shelf. Pen and paper can last forever.  Note taking sure helps me to recall things and stay organized, especially when life is busy and hectic. Maybe this quote will inspire you and you’ll find note taking a benefit. Have a wonderful day.

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Glitter

‘Our minds are like crows. They pick up everything that glitters, no matter how uncomfortable our nests get with all that metal in them’. Thomas Merton

I really like this quote by Thomas Merton. It reminds me that it is so important to protect my mind from things that, at first glance, look like glitter.  You know, the things that society tells us we need on billboards, magazine covers, commercials,  and the like.  Gossip can also look pretty sparkly.  I try to keep my mind clean so I can think clearly; live in the present moment; and observe a real need. Let’s get better at saying no to clutter in our minds. Have a wonderful day. Linda

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Stepping Lightly – Simplicity for People and the Planet

Stepping Lightly – Simplicity for People and the Planet by Mark A Burch has been one of my favorite reads lately. When I finished reading the book the first time, I flipped back to page one and started all over again. I read the book a second time because it is such a thought provoking read. Although the book was published in 2000, it’s timeless.  The author has such a great way of describing the spiritual, soulful and planetary reasons for living a simple life. I first came across the book in the local library.  I’ve purchased two used copies  now. One I am keeping for myself and the other I lend out to friends. If you wish to simplify your life, this practical guide will give you good direction. I hope you consider reading it. Bye for now, Linda

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