Author: John Lane
Publisher: Viveka Foundation
Year: 2002
Language: English
Pages: 109
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8188251070
Description
This is a book about simplicity-not destitution, not parsimoniousness, not self-denial=but the restoration of wealth in the midst of an affluence in which we are starving the spirit. It is a book about the advantages of living a less cluttered, stressful life than that which many of us are now living in the overcrowded an manic-paced consuming nations. It is a book that has nothing to do with subsistence living on the Lake Isle of Innisfree, but everything to do with having less and enjoying more-enjoying time to do the work you love, enjoying time to spend with your family, enjoying time to pursue creative projects, enjoying time for good eating, enjoying time just to be.
Another theme of the book concerns the future of our home, the Earth. Up to the end of the 19th century, the Earth consisted of a world of oceans and land masses teeming with all kinds of life but our grandchildren will inherit one with less than 20 per cent of its original forests still intact, with most of the readily available freshwater already spoken for, with most of the wetlands and reef systems either destroyed or degraded. Sooner or later a more frugal lifestyle will not only be desirable-it will become an imperative.
REVIEW
John Lane is an eloquent advocate for a happier, more meaningful life for us all.
-Helena Norberg-Hodge, author of Ancient Futures: Learning from Ladakh
Contents
Introduction
CHAPTER ONE
Why Voluntary Simplicity?
CHAPTER TWO
A Short History of Simplicity
CHAPTER THREE
Obstacles to Simplicity
CHAPTER FOUR
Laying the Foundations for a Simpler Lifestyle
CHAPTER FIVE
The Gifts of Simplicity
CHAPTER SIX
The Sacred Arts of Life
CHAPTER SEVEN
Conclusion
References and Notes
Recommended Reading