Thoughts on Simplicity

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

~Leonardo da Vinci

"There is more to life than increasing its speed."

~Mahatma Ghandi

Amidst the multitude of voices and choices, the humble Man of Galilee stands with hands out-stretched, waiting. His is a simple message: "Come, follow me" (Luke 18:22). And He does not speak with a powerful megaphone but with a still, small voice (see 1 Kings 19:12).

Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. ... Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship —the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness, and peace.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Of Things That Matter Most," Ensign, November 2010, 20, 22.

What does it mean to simplify? What are the things that matter most?

One Word for 2011

Note: There is more information in the original post on my "regular" blog.

Order

or·der \ˈȯr-dər\

noun : a : state or condition especially with regard to functioning or repair b : a proper, orderly, or functioning condition

transitive verb : to put in order : arrange

intransitive verb : to bring about order : regulate

Synonyms — order, arrange, marshal, organize, systematize, methodize mean to put persons or things into their proper places in relation to each other. order suggests a straightening out so as to eliminate confusion. arrange implies a setting in sequence, relationship, or adjustment. marshal suggests gathering and arranging in preparation for a particular operation or effective use. organize implies arranging so that the whole aggregate works as a unit with each element having a proper function. systematize implies arranging according to a predetermined scheme. methodize suggests imposing an orderly procedure rather than a fixed scheme.

The one-word theme of Order will be a reminder to me of my desires to declutter and to prioritize, to create effective family routines and to remember what matters most. I think Order can encompass the important concepts of simplifying and of balancing. I think it also covers the crucial tasks of managing my time, using my money wisely, and monitoring my energy levels. I can even see Order as a principle for maintaining my relationships with family and friends and as a directive for furthering my professional goals.