Simplify Your Life

I was looking over my photographs taken at the last photography workshop that I attended.   No matter how many times I view them, I continue to marvel at how trees, shrubs and plants are able to grow in the smallest rock crevices.

I remember this little tree reaching out of the rock along Abraham Lake. There was nothing growing close to it.

 How did the seed get there?  What are the roots anchored to?  Where is the food supply?  How long will it continue to thrive? 




I followed a path to the shore of the lake.  There was a rock outcrop that housed a grouping of wild rose bushes.  They were covered in rose hips so I knew that they had bloomed and were happy in that location.  Where was their nourishment coming from?

Along the rocky shore, a number of young plants grew amidst the pebbles.  They too were thriving in a harsh looking environment.





Each time I witness a scene such as this, it makes me wonder about our own day to day goings on.  Do we  need to have the biggest and best of everything?  Do we need to keep up with the neighbor down the street? 

Could we learn a lesson from nature?  The plants and trees were firmly rooted in place.  They were thriving in barren locations without any pampering.  Their basic necessities were being provided.  They were green, budding and blooming.  They were happy.  

Have you ever considered simplifying your life?  I did and have done so with no regrets.  It has allowed me the opportunity to enjoy the little things.  It has allowed me the time to take in all that nature has to offer.  

My two days off per week are spent exploring and enjoying the beauty around me.  I don't hesitate to put on the rain gear and head into the woods on a rain, summer day or to stop along the road side to watch the deer feeding underneath a moonlit sky.

Through simplifying my life, I have found a balance between a hectic work life and a relaxing home life.  It energizes and rejuvenates the soul.  Try it.  You just might like it.