Lately I’ve been obsessed with the idea of buying an ebook reader.
Why would I want an e-reader with its e-ink technology when other, flashier technologies are available (like the new iPad)?
It’s simple really. I love to read, and I’m finding a comfort in returning to simpler, less distracting activities. I’m growing tired of multi-tasking. Actually, I’ve discovered I’m not very good at multi-tasking. I like to focus, to take time to think and reflect about what I’m doing.
I also have too many books taking up space and gathering dust. They, like my other possessions, are weighing me down, taking away my ability to travel lightly.
I enjoy keeping up with the latest electronic gadgets. They do make life simpler in many ways. And they allow us to connect with each other more easily and more often. But when the computer’s on, I find myself checking email, reading the latest news, looking at the most recent feeds, updating my website, returning messages…. It never ends, until I turn it off.
Are Simple Things Possible Today?
I guess life is like that. We get seduced by the latest trends, the flashiest technologies. The simple things seem less attractive.
Too many people in our world today value externals. People are restless, seeking constant stimulation, constant activity, and constant feedback. The news is on 24/7, with self-proclaimed experts arguing the issue “du jour” non-stop. Introspection and quiet reflection seem to be discounted these days.
People have forgotten how to look inside for answers.
Honoring Both the Inner and Outer Pathways in Your Life
If you want to live authentically, you must set aside time to get in touch with yourself. Give yourself some space from all the distractions.
But you won’t find all the answers there. After all, we live in community. We’re connected to one another. Much must also be discovered “on foot”, as you move forward in your journey. It’s important to honor both the inner and outer pathways in your life.
As Herminia Ibarra wrote in her book, Working Identity, we learn about ourselves through experience, as we interact with others, try on new roles, and allow ourselves to experiment with possibilities.
So, yes, I will be getting an ebook reader… after I read just a few more reviews on my computer…
Do you ever find yourself yearning for simple things in this noisy time of ours?
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I just found your website today and I’ve been enjoying your articles. Reading this post, I could really relate. I’ve been trying to be more focused–living more mindfully. I find the more quietly, calmly and sometimes slowly I perform a task, the more I appreciate and enjoy it. My goal lately has been to clean out unnecessary ‘stuff’ from my life. Too much clutter, physical and mental, has begun to weigh me down. ~ I’ve been researching the Kindle and Sony Readers for some of the same reasons as you mention; plus the portability is attractive. It’s hard to toss a big hard cover book in your purse to pull out as reading opportunities present themselves. ~Thanks so much for all the valuable information you provide!
Hi Jana,
Thanks for your kind comments! It sounds like we’re in a similar place in our lives. I agree with you that tasks are much more enjoyable when they’re done with quiet attention and focus. As for the e-reader, I’ve also narrowed down my list to either a Kindle or a Sony :)
Kind regards,
Janet