Gleaning in the new year

My friend Lisa shared a book that she found helpful: Throw Out 50 Things! She shared a link to it on Amazon and the webpage has a video clip that explains the basic concept--cleaning out the clutter in our lives, whether it is stuff or old ideas, is needed to free up energy for a better life. Or something to that effect. (The link is below if you want to check it out.)

I haven't bought the book because I already subscribe to the idea. This holiday break I cleaned out more than 50 things from my kitchen, 50 books from my bookshelf, and a couple of dozen clothing items from my closet. Plus I recycled more than 50 magazines. It does feel good.

The books are the hardest for me to let go of and I found that if I asked myself the question, "Will I ever read this again?" and the answer was no. Then I had to ask why I valued owning the book. Did it say something to people about who I am by having it on my shelf? Possibly. Ultimately those books will look better on someone else's shelf or in their hands being read.

I hold on to the delusion that owning this stuff will boost my well being. And I can stand in the truth by throwing out 50+ things! I just love the left corner of my kitchen (by the fridge) because it is free of clutter.

I intend to throw out* at least 50 things a month. Sometimes my small brain starts to fret and worry that I won't be able to find 50 things--and then I walk in the garage and I know that I can follow that intention for years to come.

*recycle or give away to friends in need or charity

Give it a try!

http://www.amazon.com/Throw-Out-Fifty-Things-Clutter/dp/044650579X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262719961&sr=8-1