Simplicity | 5 of 16

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​​“I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it.” - Rita Mae Brown.

This was a quote on a card I opened up that one of my friends gave me before I left. The thought was very simple, yet elegant. When I looked around at the people who I had been staying with, and training with, I would have described them as very happy. They laugh all the time and truly seem to enjoy each other's company. It was amazing to be able to observe how joy can transcend cross-culturally without hindrance from a difference in lifestyle and language.

One thing I believe to have been a contributing factor as to why people got along so well there was because they did not have many distractions. The rooms we stayed in, the place where we trained, were all very minimal in space. No one brought a tremendous amount of personal possessions. I brought one suitcase packed with enough items for one month. One student literally had two shirts and switched them every day. Without all the distractions of my own personal clutter, I felt free and at peace to simply just be. To me, this minimalistic lifestyle demonstrated what I feel is such a difficult concept to grasp in America. The less material possessions, the more time and energy we have to give to one another

360° of our training facility.

View from right outside of our bedroom.

One of the rooms I stayed in during my trip.

Where Master Li studies.

This trip was a resurgence in the ideal notion of what it truly means to be present. I knew that when I returned, in order to keep a clear mind, to discover my ability to be present with those who I am with and close to, I would need to simplify. I would need to be disciplined enough to eliminate the distractions of what is no longer necessary in my life: emotionally, spiritually and physically. 

I'm not sure what clutter might be building up with you internally, or externally. If you are reading this and are thinking you might have some clutter to clean out, first start by focusing on eliminating the distractions that take away from the moments you are meant to enjoy. 

Talk soon & God bless, 
MG

Edited By: DJ Williams
Graphics By: Hand-Ability