As humans this phrase, Less is More, may go against our natural instincts and desires. We tend to live in the lane that is always striving for more. This “I need more” desire happens around the preschool snack table as soon as the fish crackers are given. As adults, it may come over us with the announcement of the latest cell phone or as we scroll through our social media feeds. Metroplex living tends to constantly stir up the Need for More. The very opposite of ‘Less is More’.

What if we really try to reframe our desires with a ‘Need for Less’? I had one of these “I need Less” moments as I had to purchase a new clothes dryer. These types of purchases usually don’t make the list of “Fun Things to do in the Metroplex”. But off we go to the local Lowe’s to see what our options might be. As I look over the choices, they all have too many computer lights, too many buttons, and way too many dollar signs. I asked the sells person, “Do you have anything less? Meaning – do you have any scratch & dint machines?” He showed me two. One was very similar to what we had just seen. And then, the other was much less. Less lights – like none. Less buttons – two dials. And less money! After a few more questions, I quickly made my purchase. Surprisingly, because we were able to take it that night, we were given another discount.  Basically, my ‘Less is More’ desire turned into a ‘Less for Less’ situation! And I wasn’t arguing!

This is a simple story about a dryer. I was determined to find less. I am trying to learn how to simplify life with a ‘Less is More’ framework in several areas. Life is sweeter when I have less on the calendar, less to choose from, less noise, and less to maintain. Our children are very good examples of living life with less. They love the boxes the gifts come in. They enjoy frozen pizza. And they like going on scavenger hunts in the backyard with their family. All of these take less time, energy, and money while allowing for more space to be together. When children see the adults around them managing life with less, they are seeing contentment modeled in real life.

As we enter the holiday season, I will try to re-frame my desires and be content with a ‘Less is More’ focus. Paul gives us his Statement of Contentment based on His identity with Christ, in Philippians. “I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hand full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.” Philippians 4:14, The Message. Interestingly enough, the book of Philippians has been described as Paul’s happiest letter. Maybe this is attributed to his content lifestyle.

P.S. Listen to Small Steps Podcast, Episode 10, for more encouragement on modeling contentment for our children. And for simple activities that have a ‘Less is More’ focus, join us for Open Play on November 14 or Story in the Park on November 28.