Beyond Material Things...

Over time, I have grown to appreciate the beauty that comes with embracing simplicity in a society driven by consumerism. While I can admire the things so many people go crazy about today, my connection to them ends there. Back then, I thought I felt that way because I couldn’t afford those things, but as years passed, the privilege came, and I still didn’t see their value.

My minimalist approach to life has gone beyond cutting down spending or decluttering into cultivating a deeper appreciation for what truly matters, and when I look deeply, these things aren’t material at all. Of course, some material things are important in our daily lives, and they put smiles on our faces for having them. It’s like having clothes to wear, you definitely will be happy for not going around naked but attaching happiness to those clothes that would one day wear out or become outdated doesn’t work for me.

I believe it’s unhealthy tying our happiness to things that will always slip away no matter how we try to keep them, they are just impermanent in nature. Instead of making thosw clothes a source of happiness, I will rather practice gratitude, which births a genuine and lasting feeling.

I remember sometime in 2020 when a thief got into the compound where I lived and went away with some of my trousers and those of my neighbor. I felt bad thinking of digging into my savings to restock, and that was all, but my neighbor was brooding for days, threatening to hurt the culprit. He didn’t stop emphasizing the cost and the designer name at every opportunity he gets but for me, it was just cloth with no emotional or psychological attachment.

The fact that we can’t have these material things forever is a big reason why I have chosen to invest more in what wouldn't just make me happy but will also preserve the happiness.

Last week was my birthday, and despite having nothing in mind for the celebration, my family showed up and made the day one of the best in my entire life. Their lively spirit ignited mine, and I was thrown into a celebration mood immediately. We chatted, dined, wined, and played games till it was dark.

Reflecting on this moment while writing made me smile, and that’s what genuine happiness means because, until my time is up here, I will always remember those beautiful moments we shared. Unlike material things that slip away with time, memories and bonds live with us forever. Even when these people are no longer around, the memories still lives with me and I will always be grateful for having them in my life.

---

Helping others is another thing that matters to me, and like I always say, it doesn’t have to be something huge. From giving a listening ear, to offering advice that works, rendering assistance with tasks, and a few other things can make someone else’s day, so what’s stopping me when I have the privilege to do so? Afterall, I reap the reward for helping people immediately because it makes me feel good.

I needed help building my bird cage because I can’t climb to work on the roof. I got a man in the neighborhood who goes about with a cutting saw, hammer, and others to assist me. After asking for the cost of his service, he insisted that I just give him anything. While we were working, he mentioned being a Muslim and something about the Eid celebration. Since I enjoyed his service, I decided to give more than he might have charged me.

It was just a little extra but he stared at the cash for a few seconds and asked if there was more work, but there was none. The expression on his face said it all, and I am glad I could brighten his day. I don’t know how long I will see him, but I will always smile whenever our paths cross. I have made helping others a routine, and it’s rewarding.

My personal growth also keeps me going, not because life is perfect, but because I’m not the same person I used to be. I appreciate growth generally, whether it’s mine or not, so when it’s about me, it’s extra special. And I mean growth in every ramification of my life—my spiritual life, lifestyle, achieving goals, and others—not piling up material things.

Nature isn’t left out; the beautiful sunrise and sunshine, trees, birds, and even flowers move me in ways I can’t describe, and the feeling is priceless. I can go on with the list, but the point remains that when I chose simplicity, I embraced everlasting happiness.

_{All Image Are Mine.}