In Praise of Slow

A "new" movement is now apparently on the rise in Western society. In reaction to the frenetic, unhealthy, lightning speed with which we live our lives, people are now deciding to "slow down" and "enjoy life."

A recent Maclean's magazine article on "In Praise of Slow" outlines this trend towards living life at a slower pace.

It's not actually "new" - just a re-hash of the same old "smelling of the roses" philosophy. But now, the difference is that people are now making money out of giving advice to others to "slow down."

Another interesting point made in the article is that this movement seems to be mostly accessible to the financially secure. Otherwise, most people still struggle with paying the bills, taking care of the kids, mortgage, etc. while trying to balance a healthy lifestyle that allows "smelling the roses."

What do these movements of "simple living", "slower living", "living below your means" really accomplish in the end? That one arrives at death in a better frame of mind? Ultimately what?

It's a tough juggle to "slow down" when responsibilities weigh down upon you. But, I guess ultimately, it's a setting of priorities and disciplining oneself to follow through.

Carpe diem, but slowly??

Song of the Azalea

What do the recent London bombings have to do with the Communist Youth League?

There is a wonderful small book just recently published this year by two local authors which chronicles the life of an ordinary man, Kenneth Ore, who was caught up in the Communist movement as they came to power in China. Forsaking his comfortable bourgeouis roots, he embraced the hardships of Party life in order to "save" his fellow comrades from their pitiful futures. Unfortunately, his journey ends in disappointment and disillusionment and he eventually immigrates to Canada to seek a new beginning.

I highly recommend the book. My review can be read on amazon.ca. Check it out! (I am anothervoice99.)

Oops...We Did It Again

Why are we adopting again? Especially since Paul has aplastic anemia?

Well, it's a faith that things will turn out okay. Paul has made a remarkable recovery, considering that a year ago, he was literally at death's door. However, we cannot live life in fear of what may happen. Even if he was perfectly healthy, an accident could remove him from our lives.

So, we choose to live life out maximally even with death on our heels, as it is for every one of us. I guess our mottos are "Carpe diem" (Seize the day) and "Carpe aeternitatum" (Seize eternity) and to make choices that have eternal worth.

We look forward to welcoming daughter number two!