“The Good and The Wise Lead Quiet Lives (The School of Life)” is an enlightening video by 7 Good Minutes that delves into the pursuit of lasting peace and happiness. In this episode, you will discover the secret ingredients to cultivating a tranquil and fulfilled existence.
The video offers practical guidance and enlightening insights on aligning your actions and mindset with inner peace and enduring happiness. It serves as your beacon, guiding you on a journey toward a harmonious life that radiates joy from within.
In today's fast-paced world, where active and dynamic lifestyles are highly celebrated, the notion of enjoying a quiet life may seem eccentric. Yet, when we examine it closely, busy lives often come with high incidental costs, such as limited control over our time and growing distance from loved ones.
The video highlights the benefits of leading a quiet life based on the teachings of Jesus and the cultural tradition of Chinese recluse. It encourages us to reconsider the societal pressure to constantly pursue higher positions and material wealth and instead embrace the possibility of choosing a quieter existence for true riches, peace of mind, contentment, and a closer connection with ourselves and others.
The Good and The Wise Lead Quiet Lives (The School of Life)
Introduction
In this fast-paced and noisy world, the concept of leading a quiet life may seem unappealing to many. Society glorifies busy and dynamic lifestyles, valuing achievement, wealth, and fame. Yet, there is wisdom in embracing a quieter existence, one that offers tranquility, contentment, and lasting peace.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of leading a quiet life, the limitations of busy lives, and the examples set by influential figures throughout history. By the end, you will understand the true value of a quiet life and be inspired to pursue your own path toward inner peace and happiness.
Benefits of a Quiet Life
At first glance, a quiet life may seem synonymous with a life of defeat or mediocrity. However, when we closely examine its merits, we discover several inherent advantages that are often overlooked. One of the primary benefits is the increased control over our time. In our society, where productivity and busyness are highly valued, we often find ourselves trapped in a never-ending cycle of work and obligations.
By embracing a quiet life, we reclaim the ability to determine how we spend our time and focus on what truly matters to us. Additionally, leading a quieter life allows us to cultivate more meaningful relationships, reconnect with our loved ones, and lead a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
Limited Control Over Time
In today's society, time has become a precious and scarce commodity. As we climb the social ladder and achieve success, we gain power and influence, but we often lose control over our own time. We may have the ability to make important decisions and have our voices heard in our professional lives, but the cost is our personal freedom.
Our schedules become filled with commitments, meetings, and responsibilities, leaving little room for leisure, solitude, or relaxation. We become strangers to those who love us, distant from our children, and our spouses may grow bitter. It is in leading a quiet life that we regain control over our time, allowing us to nurture our relationships and reconnect with our true selves.
Strained Relationships
The pursuit of wealth, status, and success often comes at a cost to our relationships. In our race toward achievement, we may unintentionally neglect our loved ones and sacrifice the quality of our connections. As we become consumed by our work and the pursuit of external rewards, the richness and depth of our relationships begin to wane.
By choosing to embrace a quiet life, we can prioritize our relationships and ensure that our loved ones receive the attention, care, and affection they deserve. It is in these quieter moments that we find true joy and fulfillment.
The Example of Jesus
One of the most influential figures in history, Jesus Christ, set an example of the value of leading a quiet life. In the gospels, Jesus instructed his disciples to travel lightly, taking only a staff and wearing simple sandals while leaving behind the trappings of wealth and material possessions. Jesus recognized the benefits that come with living a life of simplicity and voluntary poverty.
By freeing oneself from the pursuit of material wealth, one gains the opportunity to honor the teachings of Jesus, appreciate the wonders of the world, and serve those in need. Jesus exemplified the beauty and wisdom found in embracing a quiet life.
Voluntary Poverty
In our society, poverty is often seen as a lack of talent or ability and, therefore, something to be avoided or overcome. However, there is a distinction between involuntary poverty and voluntary poverty. Voluntary poverty is a conscious choice made by intelligent and skilled individuals who have critically evaluated the costs and benefits of living with less material wealth.
These individuals may opt for a simpler and quieter life, foregoing high-paying jobs, fame, or positions of power. By doing so, they are able to live a life aligned with their values, finding fulfillment in meaningful pursuits rather than external achievements.
Saint Francis of Assisi
An iconic example of someone who willingly embraced voluntary poverty is Saint Francis of Assisi. In the early 13th century, Saint Francis, a wealthy young man, renounced his worldly possessions, which included houses, a farm, and a ship. His decision to relinquish his wealth was not a result of external compulsion but rather a deep desire to prioritize other aspects of his life.
Saint Francis sought to contemplate the teachings of Jesus, appreciate the beauty of nature, and serve the poorest members of society. His choice to lead a quieter life allowed him to find true meaning and purpose in his actions.
Chinese Tradition of Recluses
The Chinese culture has long revered individuals who choose to live as recluses, stepping away from the busy world of politics and commerce. These recluses, known as yinshi, often retreat to the mountains and live a simple, pared-down life.
They focus on the pursuit of knowledge, spirituality, and personal growth. By embracing a life of simplicity, away from the chaos and noise of the world, they find peace and wisdom. This tradition, which dates back to the 4th century A.D., recognizes the value of leading a quiet life and the benefits it brings to the individual.
Choosing Career Paths
In our society, certain career paths are celebrated and highly esteemed. Careers that offer prestige, power, and financial success often seem like the ultimate goal. However, it is crucial to consider the true cost of pursuing such careers. The pursuit of external rewards often comes with envy, fear, deceit, and anxiety.
By evaluating the true price of these careers, we may come to the realization that we are not willing to sacrifice our peace of mind and well-being for the sake of status or wealth. Leading a quieter life, even if it means being a little poorer or more obscure, may offer greater satisfaction and contentment.
The True Price of Certain Careers
The allure of high-paying jobs, fame, and recognition can be enticing. However, these external rewards often come at a significant cost to our mental and emotional well-being. The pressure to constantly perform, the demands of a high-stress environment, and the expectation to always be at our best can take a toll on our health and relationships.
It is important to recognize that our time on this Earth is limited, and we must make choices that align with our true values and priorities. Embracing a quieter life, even if it means foregoing certain opportunities or external recognition, can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment and inner peace.
Conclusion
In a world that glorifies busyness and achievement, the value of leading a quiet life can often be overlooked. However, there are immense benefits to be gained from embracing simplicity, solitude, and voluntary poverty. By choosing a quieter existence, we regain control over our time, cultivate meaningful relationships, and prioritize what truly matters to us.
Influential figures throughout history, such as Jesus and Saint Francis of Assisi, have set examples of the wisdom and contentment found in leading a quiet life. It is up to each of us to evaluate our own priorities, consider the costs and benefits of our choices, and embark on a path toward lasting peace and happiness.
