By Sherrie Grise
Published March 2001
Last Thursday was a particularly busy night at 43 Queen. We had four things happening at once! The Front Window was open, Recycle Cycles was having a potluck, an environmental group was meeting, and so was the Living Simply on Less group.
For those of you who haven’t yet been in 43 Queen, the Main Floor is one large room (3000 sq. ft.) and is home to the Front Window, Barterworks, office space for employment counseling, a library, two workshop areas, a kitchenette, and five computers for Self-Directed Computer Training.
I find that the open concept and variety of uses of this large room instill a spirit of openness and cooperation in the people who use it. During a Simplicity Circle discussion about environmental issues, I saw Karin walk by. That reminded me that she had a worm composting system set up for the building. I called her over and she was able to show it to us. The volunteer work that Judy does is another example of how the space is used cooperatively and creatively. She has been an invaluable volunteer on Thursday nights in the Front Window but also wanted to get more involved with Barterworks. And is able to do both jobs at the same time!
Since last October I have hosted a Simplicity Circle called ‘Living Simply on less’. We use the Simple Living Guide for the Waterloo Region with a few variations. The guide provides all you need to have 10 sessions on different topics such as money, work, time, and celebrations as well as meaning and peace of mind. The group has no expert; rather we tell our own stories and learn and gain support from each other.
Other groups using the Simple Living Guide include churches, schools, and groups of friends.
I have been a part of two Simplicity Circles now. What I like most about them is that they are cooperative and respectful of everyone. They are a safe place to share experiences with like-minded individuals who are also feeling the pressures of our society to accumulate and achieve. We have taken time to listen to what is important to each other and to support each other in the changes we are trying to make. Relationships in a Simplicity Circle are based on honesty, not pretense. We learn to recognize the benefits of a simpler life and its positive environmental and personal impact.
