Simplicity in a Complex World

by Richard Singer

Wisdom of Simplicity from an Ancient Master

Lao Tzu offers us the following recipe for living a satisfying and successful life: “Manifest plainness, embrace simplicity, reduce selfishness, and have few desires.” Regrettably, our lives, our societies, and our world are much more complex than this and generally operate in the completely opposite manner.

You may say, ‘That’s just the way it is’ or ‘That’s the way the world functions’. I would then respond by explaining that it doesn’t have to be this way; we can choose to embrace the beauty and richness of simplicity, and live more serene and satisfying lives. Has the complex and gluttonous nature of society added to the contentment and peace of mind of the individuals living in it? If we are honest with ourselves the answer is a resounding ‘no.’

In fact, it appears that the more complex, high tech, and externally based society becomes, the more frequently problems arise. What’s the answer then? Well, I believe simplicity offers an effective solution to our dilemma.

Simplicity and Spiritual Practice

Simplicity is the essence of any spiritual practice. Hence, to over complicate, over accumulate, and over analyze, leaves us with an underlying feeling of consistently being overwhelmed. This anxious and frantic state of mind is made up of ruinous delusions. Consequently, these will subtly lead you away from anything spiritual. To simply be, living without all the chaos, caused by external demands, is the path to ultimate liberation and pure joy.

This simplicity dwells within the core of your being. It’s the simplicity that we once experienced as innocent and inquisitive children, first appreciating the simple beauty and wonder of all our surroundings. It is living in the moment, feeling all of the bliss and ecstasy that the universe has to offer us. Exploring the world with complete faith, without debilitating worry, regret, anxiety, self-consciousness, and all other conditioned states we have adopted from society.

Simplicity is savoring the essence of a beautiful object and feeling the ‘specialness’ within it. We do not have to amass a pile of all the top-grade objects in the world in order to feel worthy. To become a simple and innocent child again is to become a spiritual being. This spiritual being is under all the other ‘stuff’ we carry around.

Complex Times Call for Simple Answers

Simplicity is not easy to apply in our overly intricate and intellectual world, but it is indeed feasible. We must gently slip away from all the ego’s desires and demands. Begin to recognize that life is not how sizable our salary is. Seems like life is not how much knowledge we accumulate or how big and exquisite our home is. It is not how many and what type of cars we drive. Life is simply being present; it is being in the here and now completely, accepting who we are, what we have. It is believing that this is all we require for genuine tranquility and happiness. Therefore, simplicity is a potent tool that rewards you abundantly right from the start.

Thich Nhat Hanh offers a suggestion that will help apply simplicity in your own life: “Do not accumulate wealth while millions are hungry…. Live simply and share time, energy, and material resources with those in need.”

About the Author

Richard Singer is first of all a real human being who is quite faulty and still struggles with life on a daily basis. An award-winning author, trained psychotherapist, adjunct professor, and seeker of truth, Richard continuously searches for wisdom to use in life as he helps others in their precious journey. Richard is releasing his new book, Eastern Wisdom Western Soul, in August of 2016. More info at www.RickSingerBooks.com