The Year of Living Minimally - Week Forty-seven

There's an early episode of "Mad Men," when Betty is speaking with her brother, reminiscing about how much their father hated small talk ("Remember how he'd fine us?")Part of living more mindfully is cutting out the excess, whether that means clearing out a closet, a cupboard, a drawer, or all the excess noise and information we're barraged with constantly.As an introvert (yes, I am), I get anxious in casual social situations where small talk rules. Because you generally don't want to discuss heavy subjects with strangers, you end up trapped in small talk.When is the last time you truly felt calm? Quiet? At peace? Do you hike in the woods? Walk by yourself on the beach? Read without ambient noise? I've been cherishing my quiet time lately, and while I do stay connected - to the news, to friends, to my readers, certainly with my husband, there's beauty in quiet - no TV, no radio, no social media.Even if you can only find 15 minutes today, seek it out. 🧡