4.0 out of 5 stars
loved it
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on 10 March 2015
I, too, at 56, am looking for a simpler, more meaningful life. I've raised two wonderful children who are now finding their own way. Instead of empty nest syndrome, I feel a rebirth beginning. I'm excited, but scared.
2 yrs ago, I had 4 yard sales, sold most everything except for a bedroom suit and some clothes, pictures, etc. I put it in storage and I went traveling as a nurse, and experienced life in California and Alaska. Now I'm ready to come home, but I'm going to get a place in the country, instead of the city, like Joshua moving to Missoula. Already I'm thinking not about what I want to put in this new place, but what I don't want, which is much of the stuff in storage. And I'm seriously considering not having a TV, but I live in hurricane country so I'll need it for weather alerts.
What he's written here is what I've been feeling rustling around in my heart, mind, and soul for quite a while, ie: actually feeling the warmth of the sun, the chill in the air in winter , birds singing, frogs chirping, rain falling, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the appreciation of the value that my family and dear friends bring to my humble life. Really living, like its my last day on earth. I've also vowed that I want to continue to travel and explore new things. Not spending my hard earned money on Stuff will enable me to follow my dreams!
I'm looking forward to the future, and will probably read this book again, just to keep myself from falling back into my old life of accumulating things, trying to please others, or just keeping up with the Joneses.. I work with young women raising families, buying the latest jewelry, clothing, cars, phones etc and I am resolved not to fall back into that trap again. If there were a Minimalist support group nearby, I'd go to it religiously.
So, thank you fellas, for writing this book and starting a movement. It is much needed and appreciated. Don't sweat the small stuff, and it's all small stuff, right? At least the Stuff is, hiding the real reason for getting up everyday: loving yourself, your family and friends, and living a meaningful enjoyable rest of your life. God bless you both.
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