nourished by what is going on

"It is the enjoyment of every step in the process of doing; everything, not only the isolated piece we label art. If accomplishing is the only goal, all that it takes to reach that goal is too slow, too fatiguing -- an obstacle to what you want to achieve. If you want to rush to the accomplishment, it is an inevitable disappointment. Then you rush to something else. The disappointment is reaped over and over again. But if every step is pleasant, then the accomplishment becomes even more, because it is nourished by what is going on." ~excerpted from Plain and Simple: A Woman's Journey to the Amish. I mentioned a few posts ago that I have been obsessed with the Amish lately. It's the simplicity of their life that is so intriguing. Each activity serves a purpose and is done with great care and attention. The ordinary is valued. Living close to the land. Close to family and friends... community. Finding meaning and making a life out of the everyday, seemingly mundane things.

I've also been reading more about radical homemaking. It seems like the two line up on a lot of levels. They share a love of living simply and being mindful in everyday activities. Stepping away from materialism and the whole rat race rigmarole, to focus on relationships and sustainability.

And strangely, I think some of this overlaps a little with yogic philosophy. Stuff like: Being present. Non-harming (ahimsa). Aparigraha (non-possessiveness... or limiting possessions to what is necessary or important). etc.

It could just be that I'm interested in these topics and my brain is finding ways to connect them and bring them together. But putting that aside, there do seem to be clear similarities. And because I am recognizing them, I realize that I'm trying to align more with those principles myself. Things like: washing the dishes by hand and really being present for it. Limiting what I buy and buying used whenever I can. Taking care of what I already own so it lasts (trying not to take part in a "disposable society"). Enjoying the process of life instead of focusing on accomplishment. All that stuff. I think this is what's driving the idea to move to the country. So I can go deeper into these ideas... 'cause I know I'm just scratching the surface. And that excites me.

Amish... homemaking... yoga. It's all in the soup.