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Book Discussion

Posted on: April 26th, 2018 by BWNWAdmin No Comments

 

Need a dose of inspiration? Long for happiness and healthy abundance?  This is not a book about decluttering, per se, but after reading it you might find yourself wanting to remove some of the sludge of consumerism and take more time enjoying nature, art, and fellow humans.

The Abundance of Less: Lessons in Simple Living from Rural Japan by Andy Couturier follows ten people who have chosen to live sustainable, fulfilling lives. The author includes “an anarchist potter,” a “collector of fragrances,” a “philosopher of the rice fields,” and a mother and activist who believes in “making time to stop and think.” Each person in this book offers a humble, eloquent version of wisdom. In his afterword, Couturier suggests five words that will help us make similar choices: “Gentle. Small. Humble. Slow. Simple.”

According to Bill McKibben, founder of 350.org, “This is subversive in the best possible way.” The most compelling thing I can say about the book is that I have dog-eared and highlighted my copy, and given many to family and friends. Do yourself a favor and find time to read about a different definition of richness.

Rebecca Wolle

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