Chapter 11 of The Practice of Contemplative Photography,(paid link), by Andy Karr and Michael Wood, explores the topic of simplicity. The authors give very simple advice for those times when we feel overwhelmed with “so much to do, so little time.”
Do one thing at a time. And, when, you think of it, we can only do one thing at a time. There is only now; this moment in time. Their simplicity assignment explores the relationship between form and space.
Space intensifies the experience of form, and simple form intensifies the experience of space.
In my home, we are in the process of purging, recycling, downsizing, as we prepare for a major move. It has been really quite enjoyable seeing belongings that we’ve held onto for years going out the door, often to someone else who can use it now. I find myself craving simplicity, and as I look for it in my current home, it is sometimes hard to find. In my next home, I will focus on creating space around those things I decide to take with me.
“Do one thing at a time….” Thanks for the reminder Kim. I have a stack of books, all with the word “simplicity” somewhere in the title. When I get overwhelmed I always find myself reaching for one of those books. It’s a temporary fix. I need to do some of my own clearing out… I love the image too!
Simplicity – yes! Something to strive for. And while I think we all know intellectually that we can only do one thing at a time, I still struggle with keeping my focus on what is in front of me – my mind going on into “the next thing”. Thanks for the reminder.
Dianne and Brenda, I sure need the reminder too. We all know that feeling of overwhelm. It’s nice to know that we can recognize that feeling, be present, and just do what we’re doing in the moment.