Stories of Loss, Depression, and Simplicity

With global markets in chaos and millions suffering severe loss, widespread stories of depression, financial and otherwise, seem inevitable. What to do? How to react?

In all of this financial upheaval, it is important to keep a clear mind. That is, don’t let others’ fear and depression stories poison your thoughts. You may want to remind yourself not to pin your emotional well-being on money or material possessions.

Remember all the joys in life that cost nothing. It is not money or things that bring you true happiness, but living joyfully in the moment and being grateful for what you do have.

Could it be that simplicity is a big part of the cure for the stories of loss and depression? Once you’ve done what you can, let go of the results and remain in awareness of each sacred moment to be lived. Here. Now.

How are you dealing with the depressing stories that swirl around you? How do you tell yourself uplifting new life stories? I’d love to hear how you cope.

The new story I’m telling myself is that my most important capital is contentment no matter what, and that the best action I can take now is to simplify my life. Loss happens, but depression is not inevitable.

With the word simplicity newly posted in big letters above my desk, I fling myself into letting go of many of the unneeded possessions that clutter my life.

Creating a calming emptiness. Cultivating contentment through letting go instead of hanging on.

Other people can use these possessions, and I don’t want them now.

I’m focusing on the moment, not on fearsome future stories. I’ve scrubbed counter tops, made a pot of bean soup, and have boxes of canned food and clothing ready to be taken to The Open Door. What a relief to have more room in the closet and some empty space in the bulging pantry.

And with these simple actions, my heart is content to live in the simplicity of each sacred moment.