Simplify

About a week ago I downsized from a smart phone to a basic one. I did so to save money. I'd had the smart phone for six months and rarely used the features offered like navigation or the awesome apps people rave about. I did get addicted to checking e-mail and Facebook. So I'm surprised that a week after downsizing, I don't miss the old phone. Instead of feeling like I am missing out on the latest news, I am happy to be "out of touch" while waiting in doctor's offices and the grocery store line. I'm happy to look around, chat with the person next to me, or read a book.

Downsizing is swiming against the tide of our "more, more, more" culture. Nothing wrong with using and appreciating the advantages of technology. I am glad my friends with busy lives find their smart phones so helpful. But owning a smart phone, a car with power windows, or a house with air conditioning on both floors is not a need. Those are wants. One of the keys to simplifying is discerning the difference between needs and wants. Another is to decide what your priorities are.

One of our priorities these days is saving money for college for our two teenagers. So buying a less expensive phone and getting rid of the data plan allow us to set aside that money for education. I wonder - Have you ever downsized in one area to invest in another one? Was it worth it? Were there any unexpected blessings? (One I wasn't expecting was feeling less tethered to my phone.)

I'm not advocating living a simpler life for the sake of finding peace or contentment. Those things can only be found in Christ. I'm asking if you have, like me, downsized and found yourself suprisedly devoid of any feeling of loss. Downsizing my phone reminded me that I don't "need" what I thought I did. Ultimately, I only need God. He is more than enough.


- Kathryn