Life’s funniest moments often bring the most profound lessons. Recently, I had an eye-
opening experience that reminded me of the simplicity we can get into our lives and
how those with simpler lives often thrive. This reflection was sparked by thinking about
“stuff”—the things we believe we need, how much we genuinely use, and whether our
possessions improve or complicate our lives.
A friend’s son is about to embark on his first permanent station in the Marines. When
he moves, everything he owns will fit into a single duffel bag: rolled uniforms, a few
civilian clothes, a bathroom kit, and perhaps a keepsake. That’s it, off to a new home,
where he’ll share a small space with a roommate. To some, this sounds unbearable—a
life stripped of possessions. But is it?
I went through the same experience 40 years ago. Despite my desire for more stuff, my
own place, and a bigger space, I was genuinely happy and grateful for whatever I had.
The simplicity was liberating.
I first noticed this during a visit to East Africa. There, people live with minimal means,
possessing only the bare necessities. Yet, they sing, they’re thankful, and they
appreciate life. Material possessions don’t weigh them down. They carry their
metaphorical duffel bags, managing their “stuff” with clarity and freedom of movement,
which lends itself to comfort and an appreciation for what they have.
This realization—that all one’s possessions can fit into a duffel bag—brings clarity.
Duke University women’s basketball coach, Kara Lawson, speaks eloquently about
handling hard things better. Her message resonates with this metaphor of simplicity.
Life is inherently complex and won’t get easier, but simplicity can make it more
manageable.
I celebrate this Marine’s move with his duffel bag and encourage others to embrace this
metaphor as they navigate life and its accumulating “stuff.” Here are a few reflections
to ponder:
1. Does your “stuff” make you happy? Think about the joy your possessions
bring. Are they genuinely adding to your happiness or just cluttering your life?
2. Does your stuff make things more complicated? Consider the burden of
managing and maintaining your possessions. Does it add unnecessary
complexity to your life?
3. Have you had a figurative or literal yard sale to eliminate the
“stuff” that complicates things? Simplifying your life can bring freedom.
Let go of what no longer serves you.
4. Do you try to keep up with the person next to you, or are you
comfortable keeping it simple? Avoid the trap of comparison. Embrace
your path and find contentment in simplicity.
Embrace the simplicity of the duffel bag life. Reflect on your possessions, their impact
on your happiness, and the freedom that comes with less. Life is hard, but with less
“stuff” weighing us down, we can handle it better and appreciate the journey.