Chapter 1: The Allure of Simplicity

In today's fast-paced world, one has to wonder: have our advancements led us away from the simple joys of life? Are we crafting a reality that is unsustainable?

As I stand in my kitchen preparing tea or whipping up a meal, my gaze often drifts outside to where a cow grazes peacefully, seemingly the epitome of serenity. I watch a small herd—six females, one bull, and a calf—as they leisurely chew their cud, embodying tranquility.

I’ve grown fond of these gentle creatures, and it seems they’ve taken a liking to me too. Whenever I step outside, they all turn to look at me, likely anticipating their favorite treats. I often spoil them with plantain leaves, oranges, and sugar cane. Initially, I hesitated to discard the plantain leaves, thinking of how they could delight the elephants in a sanctuary in Thailand.

This led me to wonder if the cows would relish them as well. When I tried it, their excitement was palpable! Now, every time I harvest plantains, I share the leaves with them. I’ve also discovered that the bull has a particular fondness for fallen oranges. It’s delightful to see him approach me, gently taking the fruit from my hand with his long tongue. He’s never aggressive, and I enjoy petting his massive head.

The contrast between his gentle nature and his size makes me chuckle. Reflecting on my childhood with cows, I remember how bulls could be quite intimidating. A cousin of mine once had a close encounter with a bull that playfully chased him across the pasture. However, this bull and the rest of the herd are incredibly gentle.

As I snap a photo, they all look towards me, perhaps wondering when their next meal will arrive! I plan to check the garden later to appease my new friends. A caretaker feeds them daily, and it seems this spot has become their designated feeding area, where they often rest.

I often ponder what thoughts occupy the mind of a cow as she chews her cud, her head held high with eyes closed in utter peace. The cows interact harmoniously, occasionally nudging each other as they enjoy their simple lives of grazing. Just yesterday, I watched one cow lick a calf affectionately, showcasing their natural instinct to care for one another.

This observation leads me to question: Were humans designed to live in such harmony? Have we inadvertently disrupted this balance? It seems that while other species coexist peacefully, we humans have complicated our relationships through divisions of race, gender, and economic status.

Are we flawed beings, or is this separation an intrinsic part of our evolution? We’ve created a society that often views material possessions—like a neighbor's BMW—as symbols of superiority, while someone speaking a different language might be wrongly labeled as uneducated.

Why can't we foster the same sense of community and cooperation that exists among other species? Historical accounts, such as those in the book "Sex at Dawn," suggest that humans once lived in a more open and supportive society. Perhaps this openness helped prevent conflicts.

Have we strayed so far from that ideal? Nowadays, many of us shut our doors to neighbors, opting for isolation rather than connection. When did we become a society that turns against those with differing beliefs?

We may have brains and speech, but does that mean we cannot find peace in our daily lives? Isn’t it possible to return to a simpler existence? Has technology transformed us into a modern form of savagery?

While we no longer hunt and gather in the traditional sense, we live in glass houses, sometimes casting judgment on those around us. We have instant access to anything we desire, yet this abundance raises questions. Do we have too many choices?

Life expectancy has increased, but does longevity equate to a quality life? Many merely exist rather than truly live. Is this the world we’ve created?

Personally, I would choose a simpler life—hunting, gathering, and coexisting peacefully—over the anxiety of modern existence any day. There’s a fear that if I were to fall into a coma, my family might keep my body alive for the sake of it, while my spirit is long gone.

Living in the mountains has provided me with an escape from the chaos of the world. Is it better to withdraw from societal involvement? I’m uncertain. All I know is that I aspire to a life of tranquility, where I can ponder the thoughts of a cow gazing into the distance, utterly carefree.

XOXO

Chapter 2: Embracing Simplicity in Modern Life

As we reflect on the complexity of modern existence, we can look to insights that encourage a return to simplicity.

In this video, Tony Robbins discusses how to transform your life in just 30 days, emphasizing the importance of clarity and purpose.

The next video highlights the idea that simple living is the key to true happiness, urging viewers to reconsider what brings them joy.