Living Naturally, Calmly, And Wisely

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Living Naturally, Calmly, and Wisely Henry David Thoreau emphasizes the necessity of simplicity, honesty, and tranquility of nature. In the fast-paced world we live in, with many stresses, obstacles, and responsibilities, the basic values of life are often overlooked and diminished. In "Where I Lived and What I Lived For," Henry David Thoreau expresses the great importance of life's wonders and fulfilling experiences. Even considering the time period of the 1840s, there are many industrial, laborious, and familial similarities. Since everything in modern life is hectic, busy and tedious, simplicity is very important. The current dynamics of our society are so complex and full of unnecessary details. There is a daily 'grind,' a routine that seems to travel only one route, and one path. Little time remains for leisure and enjoyment. For example, Thoreau rightfully suggests "Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity!... let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand; instead of a million count half a dozen, and keep your accounts on your thumb-nail" (5,15). This proves to be true, even in 2011. Our 'to-do' lists seem endless and only recurring. The cycle of time and money viciously continues from day to day and week to week. Our minds are cluttered and our hands are always full. Thoreau declares "I do not wish to be any more busy with my hands than is necessary. My head is hands and feet. I feel all my best faculties concentrated in it" (8,21). Everything is in our heads; brains that should be deliberating, relaxing, and thinking, but only calmly and with organization. Considering the greediness and corruption in our world, honesty is a characteristic that needs to persist. In the unfortunate continuous 'race' and competition within our society, the desire for power and monetary compensation persists. The number of compassionate, kind, and HONEST
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