Blessed By Less - Book Review

We have all heard the expression "less is more" but Susan Vogt reminds us that we can be "blessed by less."  I recently had the opportunity to read Vogt's book and was inspired to evaluate by own possessions and clutter.  The book was birthed out of a short term commitment that Susan made.  She made an intentional decision to give away an item each day during lent.  After her six week commitment ended, she found that she had become "addicted" to giving away things that she didn't need.  The end result surprised Vogt. She states in the book that "instead of feeling poorer, she felt freer and more fulfilled."

She inspires the reader to take "baby steps" when trying to simplify one's life.  Susan graces each chapter with scriptural references designed to encourage the reader through God's Word.  Through concrete examples, Vogt shares in detail how living a more simpler lifestyle can affect more than just our home.  She believes it also does the following:

 -we save money
- we become more generous
- we waste less
- we worry less
- we smile more
- we develop a deeper faith

Each chapter ends with questions for reflection allowing the reader to ponder the teaching and pray about potential changes in lifestyle.

As I read the book, it prompted me to personally evaluate my life and particularly my home.  I took Susan's advice and identified my first "baby step."  The step that I chose was my closet.  The recent winter storm, that confined many of us to our homes,  provided the much needed time to begin.  I created three piles:

1)  Sell - this pile contained clothes that a local consignment was accepting this time of year.
2)  Giveaway - this pile contained clothes and shoes that were out of season
3)  Keep - this pile contained clothes that I decided to keep.  As I created this pile I asked specific questions.  "Have I worn this within the last year?"  "Does it still fit?"

Here are the results:

1)  I now have about 20 items that I will take to the consignment store.  The extra money will provide extra income to use in spoiling my new granddaughter.
2)  I was able to bless a dear friend with some new items of clothing. When I saw her wearing one of the jackets, it looked so cute I almost wanted it back.  Her smile and excitement were huge blessings.
3)  My closet is more manageable. Through this process, I actually found two sweaters and two pairs of shoes that I had forgotten about.

So what is my review?  I am  definitely "Blessed By Less." 






Photo credit:
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