Minimalism: Not Just About Having Less by Carrie Anderson

This week I’ve been trying to clear out and pack away things we don’t really use.  Eight extra dinner plates while keeping enough for company, half broken mugs, and the cake stand I use maybe once a year. 

I’ve been battling one thing this week though, and that’s contentment.  You can get rid of all the extra things and still not be content with what you have.  “I can’t wait until I can replace ‘blank’” ragged towels, sheets, clothing, etc.  Living with less isn’t really beneficial unless you choose to be content with what you have, otherwise history will repeat itself. 

“...His eyes are never satisfied with riches,”

Ecclesiastes 1:8 

Just take one look at what Pinterest and Instagram come up with when you search for minimal homes: clean, white, and trendy. That minimalism isn’t my reality.  Six kids means never ending folded laundry on my couch no matter the quantity of clothing, and continuous dishes to be washed after every meal.   

So, how does one actually be content and live with less?  Stop scrolling.  Give thanks for provision.  I give thanks for those tattered towels as I fold them.  They still work just fine. 

Minimalism and contentment don’t just happen, it’s an active choice and training of the will. And it can be hard!!  It’s not exactly a popular thing today to not give in to all your wants and desires.  Perhaps it is harder to reject unsatisfied feelings with so much swirling around telling us we need new and more of something, but practicing contentment and actively being thankful for what you do have is what gives greater purpose to having less.  It is good for mental health, good for your wallet, and good for your home. 

“I have learned whatever situation I am in, I am to be content.”

Philippians 4:11 

As I challenge myself to practice contentment this week, I challenge you as well.