Are You Really That Simple? 无为

A while back, I became interested in the idea of what it would mean to lead a simple life. I found this one religion/philosophy which seems to embrace this idea. Some of it's major tenets are:

1. The universe is comprised of a basic unity--a mysterious force which is unknowable and which is the origin of all things. It is impossible to know absolute good and evil.

2. Life is the greatest of all possessions. To attain the richest sort of life, a person must somehow attune himself to this unity.

3. Live in primitive simplicity and let all things take their natural course. We should place our will in harmony with the natural universe which works harmoniously in its own way. When we try to impose our will it disrupts that harmony.

4. Kindness, humility and sincerity should be cultivated.

5. The highest goodness is like water which seeks the lowest level drawing nearer to the unity of all things.

And how can such a life be lived today in the midst of all our modern wonders and the complexity of our civilization?

We are responsible for how we live our lives. Cultivate simplicity, get rid of unnecessary "things." Try to attune to nature and the changing seasons. Try to not be so judgmental. Accept and try to understand other people. Cultivate compassion and kindness. Encourage others to abandon their rampant consumerism. Development spontaneity in your life and try to look upon your life as a child does--full of awe and wonder.