I was lying in bed the other night trying to name reasons that I like Dominica now (other than the fact we have been praying about it). We were talking this week at my women's bible study that we feel like living here has really helped us appreciate the "simple life". When Ryan and I were living in Nashville I was constantly "shopping" around for newer clothes, new ways to decorate our house, newer technology, etc. I always felt there was an unspoken expectation to look a certain way and to have certain things. Sometimes that caused stress because to constantly have new things, you have to have $$$. Since coming here - to a place where we all live in very similar apartments, have no cars (or cars that are at the end of their car life), and wear clothes that are very casual (and usually no makeup and hair in ponytails)- I have found that I really don't NEED anything. I really don't. I'm healthy and I have people that I love and I get to live in a place where everday I am able to enjoy the most beautiful views. Have y'all heard the song Give Me the Simple Life? It's on the Father of the Bride 2 soundtrack. I really love that song. When Paige and I lived in the dorm we used to listen to that soundtrack as we went to sleep. Here's a little snipet of the lyrics:
A cottage small is all I'm after,
Not one that's spacious and wide.
A house that rings with joy and laughter
And the ones you love inside.
Some like the high road, I like the low road,
Free from the care and strife.
Sounds corny and seedy, but yes, indeed-y;
Give me the simple life.
That's a lot of the reason why I think I am enjoying living here this semester. I finally realized that all of the things I thought I needed to be happy are just things.
Another reason - my car! (Does that seem to contradict what I just wrote above?) Seriously, with the car I feel like I have my freedom back. I'm not trapped at home all day if it's raining, I'm not scared to leave the house at night, and I don't have to carry 20 pounds of groceries a mile in the burning up heat! I'm free to come and go as I please and I love it!
Now I'm sure that once we move home to the good ole USA and I am surrounded by all of the luxuries again, it won't take long for me to have that same desire for new "stuff". Isn't that human nature? But I hope that I will always remember that it is just stuff and that I can be just as happy with or without it. (If I forget, I'm sure some of you who are reading this post right now will be happy to remind me in a year or two!) :)
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7 comments:
As I have turned 30 over the past year, I have kind of had somewhat of a change of heart. Maybe it is also because I have had my second child too. "Things" are definitely "convenient" and can make life easier sometimes, but I am starting to realize that the intangeable things are the best of life like being happy because it is a sunny day or watching your kids laugh at each other. It sounds like you two are starting to figure that out too. I am glad you are enjoying the experience of "the nature isle." God Bless! emily s.
I have recently read a book that I think you would like. It's called "The Irresistible Revolution" by Shane Claiborne. It's about a group of people who moved to the poorest parts of Philadelphia to be a part of the community there. Living in poverty and being a part of that community (a community that lives without luxuries) is something that has completely transformed their lives and the way they interpret scripture. I think the things you are experiencing now are such blessings and will continue to be. I LOVE YOU!!
Great post Ashley. Too often I take things for granted and don't appreciate all that I have been blessed with. norma
Well, good for you!!! Today, in Jackson MS while we were looking at a school for Adam, we went to a great restaurant!(rated best 10 in the country for fried chicken, it was)and just like Alice in Wonderland I found a great shopping mall. We were looking in an estate jewelry store. I tried on a 9 carat ring (only a mere $250,000!!! A 22 inch diamond necklace that was 150 years old. We considered buying, but like you, opted for the simple life. You are wise beyond your years. Love, Mom
So since you are into the “simple life” now, can I keep all the nice things yall let me borrow when yall moved?! I think it would be a good jester to show everyone yall are really for real. haha
-adam
Ashley, this post really spoke to me! Deep down inside, I would really LOVE to live somewhere like that. Where all that really matters is family, and spiritual community. I love that. I'm jealous. We bought a new house and moved in this weekend, and as we were packing up, I was really made aware of how much clothes, and just "stuff" I have accumulated, and still feel like I need MORE! It was embarrassing. It's sad. Thank you, though for helping me see a little more clearly today:)
Thank you for posting this. It really made me think of how much I always want stuff when i really dont need it. I really enjoy reading your blog and I am glad that you are having a good time in Dominica. Have fun with all your visitors coming in!
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