VOLUNTARY SIMPLICITY CHICAGO

NOVEMBER MEETING

11/11/06

 

 

Mark, Laura, Lennie, Nancy, Ross, Chris, Andy, Rich, Vicky, Dave P., and Jill attended the meeting.  After a quick update on individual lives, four topics were posted and we commandeered another room so that two healthy conversations could occur simultaneously.

 

I.                    What forms of exercise will you use to remain healthy over the winter ?

 

Ross suggested that this is the time of the year to make a choice to become a TV watching, 10# heavier by spring couch potato or to find enjoyable physical pursuits. Maintaining positive mental health is another reason to stay active during the dark days of winter.   The following ideas and tales of fun surfaced.  Look to gyms and city / park sponsored teams such as volleyball and basketball.  Indoor in-line skating, yoga and dance classes abound and just for grins, how about going to Circus School ?

 

II.                 Decluttering precious items

 

Finally a discussion on decluttering that went past the obvious to the items we hold near and dear.  I believe Joe Dominguez calls them gazingus pins.  How do we determine the emotional value of an item ?  Jill suggested photographing treaured gifts and excess stuff that has high emotional attachment so that the feeling could be had by looking at the picture, remembering the giver, etc.  Mark suggested that all collections be weeded out to remove obsolete items.   Vicky has a strong desire that excess usable items be used, not just discarded.  She has had disappointing experiences donating to organizations in the past.

 

III.               Dealing with opposition to a frugal / simpler lifestyle

 

Two main ideas surfaced in this discussion.  One is to agree to disagree and accept the differnces without acrimony.  Mark finds it a challenge to discuss these views with some family and friends and has chosen to remain quiet instead of giving his opinion.  He posted the topic looking for other options.  The other idea is to listen to your inner voice.  Again, acceptance that you may be in the minority and that it is OK.

 

IV.              What changes, implications for simplicity and overall good can come from the recent elections ?

 

The group discussed the potential for a change in the US approach to Iraq.  (and oil)  The difficulties in the Middle East were discussed and the question posed, Is there a good solution ?  Mexico and immigration were discussed.  How does immigration and the larger issue of potential disintegration of Central America and Mexico impact each of us ?

 

A quick recap ended the meeting.  Find these  topics interesting ?  Have something to say on them ?  Have other burning issues relating to simple living you’d like to discuss ?  Then plan to join us on December 9^th at 9 AM.  A potluck will follow the meeting, details will follow !