Counteracting Clutter

OK, I got an inspiration! I was pondering the problem of clutter during my prayer time - that nagging reality of 'too much stuff'. Hhmmm -- what to do? Well, I figure our faith gives us a number of little guidelines which point toward the need of a de-cluttered life.
First, the virtue of poverty - in our case as moms, the willing reduction of 'stuff' , for there are dangers associated with too many possessions -- greed and 'excessive solicitude' - how many times do we find ourselves worrying about our possessions, our home, our stuff? We know our goods are meant to meet our human needs and the needs of those around us. So while stuff can be good, we need to guard against affluence and luxury. Even if we think our possessions aren't very high quality, the quantity alone can be 'rich'.
Secondly, in Catholic thought, we need to do all in moderation, including what we own -- too much or too little is never good. Thirdly, simplicity -- in order to reduce our own mental distraction and spiritual dissipation, we need to simplify life and stuff in order to clear our minds and focus on what is truly important, like our relationships with God, family, friends and community.
Lastly , there is a need for order in our lives - the more things we possess, the harder it is to manage them all. Spiritual growth always accompanies order - external and internal. And in fact, our homes are often a reflection of our interior state.
These virtues are what I think we need to focus on in order to counteract clutter!

posted by Holly at 11:52 AM