Emotional Clutter

Before we try to identify and solve the problems with the world, we need to focus within ourselves. A variation of that advice was quoted a couple of times on an OMNI-TV documentary last night called "Searching for Buddha".

As I reclined with a full stomach, sipping nog contentedly in front of our television and watching "Oliver!" I came upon this show while channel surfing to the viewing guide . I commenced watching it and would jump back to the movie during commercials. Talk about the inability to focus on one thing at a time! I think we call that multi-tasking in these days of varied distractions.

As part of my spiritual journey, I have been reading and collecting books on various belief systems. I am not willing to return to the religion assigned to me upon birth nor subscribe to any one line of teaching but am open to learn from words and actions of others who serve as unobtrusive guides. It's indeed a wonderful journey rich with new acquaintances and respected rituals.

Years ago, after being a survivor of domestic violence and dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I found solace and serenity in the teachings of Buddhism. I also embraced journal writing as an outlet. I really wanted a life of simplicity and calm after escaping with my children from a home cluttered with material things, disordered behavior and frequent, angry tirades.

It has been six years and although we have accomplished simplicity and calm after moving to a brighter, happier home, I feel like we have once again accumulated too many material burdens.

My de-cluttering project will mainly address the material possessions. I am still addressing emotional clutter from our previous life. Since then, I have met many women and men who have gone through or who are still experiencing similar domestic discord that I had to live through. The best I can tell them is to seek communication, counselling and if that doesn't work, to ... escape to some safe haven if that is possible.


References:

• Searching for Buddha
  http://www.omnitv.ca/ontario/tv/docs/episodes/buddha/
• Survivor of Domestic Abuse
  http://web.ncf.ca/co848/tat/domestic_abuse.html
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  http://www.cmha.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=3-94-97
  
• United Way - Strengthening Individuals and Families in Times of Need and Crisis
  http://www.unitedwayottawa.ca/English/What%20we%20do/index-c.php

It's Christmas morning and there are no presents under our tree

Don't feel bad for us. I planned this intentionally.

I wanted to address the wastefulness of the commercialized season and the clutter it brings to our lives.

In younger years when my children received or exchanged a few Christmas gifts, we would not always use wrapping paper. We put them in the reusable gift bags that you can buy at any dollar store along with sheets of reusable tissue paper. Some of these came from family and friends in previous years.

This year is a different one because I did not get pricey gifts for them. First of all, as a single parent, I cannot afford it. Second, I don't like venturing into crowded malls (or places period). I didn't even venture online to spend plastic.

I'm sure the words "Grinch" or "Scrooge" bounced around in their heads when I informed them weeks ago that we would not be getting presents this year. Instead, we would be redirecting funds to the young parents of a new member of our extended family as well as a few of our chosen charities. They seemed receptive to the idea, especially now that they are no longer "children". They seemed to accept and embrace the warm feeling of giving.

My growing children will still receive stocking stuffers of the chocolate kind and a bit of pocket money. They will also be able to share in a few feasts and celebrations with more family. Unfortunately, the older ones will have to work on boxing day as they are servants to retail, helping shoppers find bargains that fit or ... return unwanted gifts.

My first post

Who would know that I'd be at a loss for words. This is my first post of deep blonde thoughts, reflections on life, life styles and experiences.

To begin in 2010, my focus will be on de-cluttering my life, identifying things and habits that are not conducive to a peaceful, healthy and environmentally conscious existence. I plan to log my progress, ask for help and hopefully offer some useful advice.