Seeds of Success

We have a small plaque in our living room that says, Cherish the Simple. I love that thought, and every time I look at it I am reminded that I really do want to cherish the simple things in my life. But face it, simple is just not the way most people would describe their lives. Hectic, fast-paced, overwhelming, stressful is much more accurate for most who are chasing after the elusive American dream. (Sometimes I wonder if anyone even remembers what that dream is anymore.)

As Americans we can so easily get caught up in trying to keep up with those who are traveling in the fast lane-never content with what we already have, but working long and hard to possess more and more of the latest gadgets, toys, appliances, vehicles, etc. Add to that the stress of endless activities that have us running here and there, and it seems that many have less and less time to really enjoy their friends, their families, their work, their lives. Time is such a precious commodity.

I sometimes like to think back to the days of the pioneers who settled these prairies where I live, and imagine their lives, as difficult as they must have been, as being in many ways much simpler than the lives we lead in the 21st century. Yes, the pioneers worked hard to make a living, but they also took time to enjoy each other's company. They didn't come home from work and turn on the TV or surf the internet or rush off to some meeting or ball game every night of the week. Their homes were simple by today's standard, but at least they didn't have to work non-stop just to pay for them. They treasured the few possessions they had, but their possessions did not own them. They had a special kind of spirit.

I know it's not possible to go back to living like the pioneers, and I am not even saying that we should. However maybe it would be good to periodically take a look at our lifestyle and do a little evaluating of what really matters in life. Take stock and see if there are some things you can do to simplify, so you can really enjoy your life. Go back and review your priorities, and rethink your goals, dreams and desires in your life. My best advice to you is this: Cherish the Simple!