Daughters of Promise March/April 2015 | Page 43

the good life is found in accumulation, that ‘more is better’…Simplicity frees us from th(e) modern mania. It brings sanity to our compulsive extravagance, and peace to our frantic spirit. It liberates us from what William Penn called ‘cumber.’ It allows us to see material things for what they are-goods to enhance life, not to oppress life. People once again become more important than possessions.” On this basis that simplicity brings freedom, I recently set out to ruthlessly purge my closet. I wanted to see if I enjoyed what I owned more, while possessing less. It was a little intimidating at first. Items I’d been holding onto for years were hard to let go. What if I wish I had kept this? I thought. But I’m here to tell you that the experiment was successful. Cleansing my closet was purifying. It really does feel good to look at an orderly array of items. I enjoy the clothing I have, and love putting it to its intended use. My closet is healthier because it is eliminated of excess; reduced to only those things I love and can use regularly. Maybe you don’t share my passion for simplicity, and that is ok. My getting here has been quite a process so all I want to do is share a few insights and hope that it will start some meaningful deliberations of your own. your wardrobe by 1/3. My approach isn’t quite as mathematical; I eliminate items based on use-ability and quality. If it fits, I love it, and wear it regularly – the item stays. Anything that doesn’t