SIMPLICITY

     Under a blanket of the current economic atomopshere, there is a tranformation taking place where we are compelled to re-evaluate what is really important and consider different approaches to how we live and think.  Through the years many of us have aquired things out of shere consumption; symbolizing our worth by materials instead of our consciousness. Although it is difficult to part with certain valubles we've worked hard to obtain, there is something cleansing about reducing the clutter from your enviroment and therefore your mind.
      One of the first things to do is to accept the notion of simplicity.  This allows you to create tranquility without sacrificing style as the iconic Designer and Architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe demonstrated with his understanding of, "less is more," which he is acredited for phrasing.  It is often desired in western culture to fill the room with things that display a narrative which speak for the occupant; where in Japanese culture for instance, minimalism is desired to keep the room simple  allowing the occupant to speak; producing clarity of thoughts and the ease to articulate them.  I think it's apropos to create balance by incorporating both philosophies where your choices are specific, personal, and thinly layered; averting clutter and bordom simultaneously.
      When beginning to simplify you must first and foremost learn to just let go.  If you haven't used an item or items in years, especially things stuck in the back of the closet or rooms deemed as closets, chances are you'll never use them.  Sift through your belongings and quickly dispose of the things you don't want or need before deceiving yourself into believing it still has relevance; or put it aside for sale, but only if you are serious about putting in the time to sell it.  If it's worthless, throw it out, and if not, donating it is also a noble option. Imagine packing a suitcase; many of us have the tendancy to over-pack with the "just in case" items, then we examine what we have and end up removing a fraction, thus keeping what we really need and will actually use.
       Once you've gone through the piles and laid the unwanted to rest, it's time to organize.  This is one of the most daunting task to the already drained earthly citizen.  Breathe, and take the time to rearrange and put things in its place.  Indirectly, you will find yourself creating a new enviroment with less drag where you can revel in the beauty and travel lighter.  Then you can relax comfortably emerced by enough detail to tell your story and at the same time, lay back to hear your thoughts.