Chapter 1: Embracing Simplicity

Life often feels overwhelmingly complicated...

I recently had the pleasure of hearing my neighbor play a traditional Chinese flute, which filled our space with a serene and meditative sound. After a particularly stressful few days, this peaceful moment was exactly what I needed. I had just woken up from a nap and found it delightful to lie there, listening to the music for thirty minutes, allowing my thoughts to quiet down. The beauty of that simplicity reconnected me with myself and stirred feelings of nostalgia for happier times.

This experience reminded me of the joy that simplicity brings, and I couldn’t help but reminisce about my childhood in the eighties—a time devoid of mobile phones. Life then seemed so much more straightforward. Back then, if I wanted to see a friend, I simply knocked on their door, and we talked face-to-face. Reflecting on those days, I realize how genuine and refreshing those interactions were.

Now that I’m in my forties, I find myself looking back more often than looking ahead. Perhaps this is a natural part of aging. I think about the endless summer days of my youth, filled with innocence and joy. The highlight was always the arrival of the ice cream van, when my parents would give me a few pounds to indulge in whatever treat I desired. It was pure bliss.

Looking back at the youthful optimism I had in my early twenties, I can’t shake the feeling that I’ve strayed from my true self. While I know there are no wrong turns in life—only different paths—I often ponder the choices I made, including jobs, relationships, and friendships that may not have been the best fits for me. This reflection seems to be a common part of growing older, as we consider the paths we didn’t take and how our lives could have unfolded differently.

The pressures of adulthood can be exhausting. Perhaps I’m experiencing a mid-life crisis, yearning for the carefree days of my youth when life felt full of possibilities. Post-pandemic life has been especially draining; I find myself avoiding close contact with others due to my past experiences with Covid-19 while working as a teaching assistant.

Additionally, my partner’s health issues mean that our lives revolve around countless doctor visits and hospital appointments. It often feels overwhelming, and I long for a break from the relentless pace of it all. If only we could escape for a little while to gain some perspective—if finances allowed, of course. The rising cost of living has made even grocery shopping feel like a choice between essentials and indulgences. It's disheartening.

And then there’s the internet—a tool meant to simplify our lives, but it often adds to the chaos. On some days, I feel inundated by the sheer number of passwords and information required for basic tasks. Even something as simple as buying socks online can turn into a frustrating ordeal. Just when I think I've typed everything correctly, I’m met with a message stating, "We have been unable to verify your identity."

When did life become so devoid of joy? Or perhaps it's just me feeling this way. Being autistic, I thrive on routine, but even that has become too much to handle. I yearn for something that feels increasingly absent in our society: authentic connections, genuine communication, and true joy.

To the talented musician above me, thank you for reminding me of the joy and freedom that life can offer. Now, it’s time for me to seek out more of that joy for myself and others. Life began as an exhilarating adventure, and I deeply miss that feeling. Slowing down to appreciate the beauty around us is essential. Ultimately, I desire less—less to worry about. The thought of selling everything, packing a backpack, and venturing into the unknown feels therapeutic. Maybe it's about starting anew—or perhaps completing what was left behind.

Thanks for reading! 🙏

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DISCLAIMER: This article is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health support. If you are struggling with any issues mentioned, please consult your healthcare provider. The points discussed here are general and do not guarantee a healing solution.

Chapter 2: The Power of Music

This lyric video, "Simplicity," embodies the essence of finding peace in the uncomplicated moments of life, reminding us of the joy in simplicity.

Chapter 3: Resetting Life’s Settings

In "SIMPLICITY--RESETTING MY LIFE BACK TO GOD'S SETTINGS," the journey of reclaiming life's simplicity is explored, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own lives and seek a return to joy.