Simple Things

I have written several times in this blog about simplicity in some form. I’m doing it again and there is a good reason for it. Part of it may be a reminder to myself that it’s a great philosophy on so many levels. But there is something else to say.

Life is not always simple. I know that. Often it’s complicated.

Relationships are complicated: Friends, family, colleagues, all loved ones.

I’ve discovered that “keep it simple” is a good motto. Expect good but don’t worry so much if people disappoint you. Everyone has their own thing going on. Be generous with your assessment. Give them a wide berth and time to come around. If they don’t, move on. It’s that simple.

I’ve also discovered that the times in my life that I have been the happiest have been very simple ones. Don’t get me wrong, there have been amazing memories of Broadway shows, trips abroad, accolades for work well done, lovely gifts and more. Still, what I hold most dear are the everyday things that wouldn’t make it into a blockbuster novel.

Let me give you an example. One of my soul memories is sitting on steps leading down to the beach and watching the ocean, a morning cup of coffee warming my hands.

Another one. Watching my children’s faces when they had their first ride on a merry-go-round.

Another. A black velvet summer night sitting outside when the moon seemed to fill the whole sky.

That ancient tree across from my childhood home.

Okay. Still watching my children’s faces. No matter what they are doing.

So many moments. Small ones.

So my discovery is that it isn’t the BIG things that fill you up. Oh, they are nice all right. But they are temporary. It’s the everyday, you’d hardly notice things. It’s simple, really. Simple things. But not, if you know what I mean. Look for them.

OCTOBER 2015 BOOK SELECTION- SHINE SHINE SHINE

This month’s book selection: Shine Shine Shine features one of the most distinctive voices in fiction I have ever encountered. Lydia Netzer has created characters and a story so quirky and unique I was intrigued from beginning to end.

While browsing at a table full of books at a conference, I came across this author’s work by chance. I had never heard of her or the book. It speaks well of browsing book stores and/or the library (one of the great pleasures of my life) and not just shopping for what Amazon or some other site is attempting to sell you. I love Amazon, too, but nothing quite beats the tactile experience of perusing a book. But, I digress.

This is not quite a love story, but it is. It’s not quite a character study but each character literally emerges off the page fully realized. It’s not quite an adventure story but it’s full of adventure and risk taking. For example, one character tells us his story as he rockets to the moon.

By the time you finish this novel you will wish you knew these characters and almost feel as if you do. Highly recommend.