Less is more

Heart shape on mango in drain

Before I left for Toronto on May 2, I did (what felt like) a massive clean out . . . things to throw away and give away. I went through my clothes and pared down to (what felt like) a bare minimum, tossing tops and bottoms that either no longer fit, look old, or which I don't wear for one reason or another.

Today, as I find myself clearing away yet again, I wonder: "Where does it all come from?" Despite having gotten rid of things before my trip, I return and feel as though more needs to go. I've been at it all day—putting more clothes into a bag for the needy, ripping papers, clearing everything I don't use or need. I want to bring it down to a minimum and do my best to maintain that space and "emptiness".

Why and how do we accumulate so many things?  The reality is (in my room alone) the only things I use are my laptop, my yoga mat, my bed, fan, telephone, clothing, guitar.