10 Trinity Sq
Toronto, ON
M5G 1B1
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reflections and sermons posted here are the work of individual members of Holy Trinity. Opinions expressed are those of the writer or preacher and do not necessarily reflect an official or even popular opinion within the parish.
Simpler Living
SARA BOYLES
The CBC strike is over. I look forward to everyone being back at work and to fresh programming. I have to admit though to some pleasure in hearing old tapes of my favourite shows. For example, driving home the other evening I caught an interview with Satich Kumar, editor of the UK magazine Resurgence. From the piece that I caught he was advocating simpler living, shorter work weeks, lots of time for sleep and leisure (with an emphasis on sleep), and poverty, good poverty that is.
He didn't define poverty as not having enough to pay your bills but as living responsibly in a way that one discovers interdependence, joy and energy. It seemed he was advocating community mindedness and the belief that small is beautiful but a necessity if we are to truly appreciate who we are and what we have been given. He believes that it is small that reduces the frazzle and the tension of living. Pleasure comes not in self reliance but in wide awareness and centred actions and behaviour.
Then I came across a quote by Wilkie Au (21st C). "Any spirituality that leaves out leisure will lack depth and balance because leisure lies at the heart of prayer, solitude, community and friendship." It seemed to reinforce what Kumar is trying to say and what other wise men and women have said through the ages. I believe that Jesus had something to say about getting away and being centred as well.
I don't know how people with young children ever get enough sleep and leisure, especially in this crazy world where we seem so programmed to doing and going and acquiring. I am at a different stage however with an opportunity just ahead to stop for a few days. This afternoon I am going to the Mother house of the Community of St. Joseph in Pembroke. I will return Friday. I am looking forward to the space to think and be.
May you have a good week, walking along where you are, satisfied in the moment to know your belonging.
Sara November 30, 1999 |
