Embracing Simplicity: Lessons from Pope Francis for a Fulfilling Life
Regardless of your religious affiliation or background, studying the life and habits of Pope Francis can offer valuable insights into living a life of simplicity. Although he is the current leader of the Catholic Church, his personal history reflects a life of modesty and humility. Pope Francis has long been known for his simple lifestyle, often opting for public transportation, preparing his own meals, and choosing to live in a modest apartment rather than a larger, more luxurious residence.
In today’s society, particularly in the USA, the pursuit of a simple life is often overlooked or avoided. I, too, have been guilty of accumulating more than I truly need. However, several years ago, my wife and I made a conscious decision to build a smaller home. We came to the realization that "bigger" doesn’t always equate to "better." Since moving into our current, smaller home, we have found contentment and happiness. Though we still have more "stuff" than we’d like, we are gradually learning to declutter our lives.
It’s astonishing how many storage units can be found throughout the southeastern USA, packed to the brim with "stuff." But why? Why have we, as a society, come to equate happiness and success with the accumulation of material possessions? As Matthew 6:19-21 states:
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
There is no inherent sin in having nice things or living in a beautiful home. The challenge arises when we begin to prioritize the acquisition of material goods over spiritual growth. This can manifest in two ways:
Chasing Happiness Through Possessions: The belief that acquiring more will bring happiness or success. However, true happiness and fulfillment are not found in material wealth.
Placing Materialism Above God: When we place more value on the things we own rather than on our relationship with God, His Church, and His Word.
True happiness and success come when we focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and with others. Perhaps this Lent, instead of simply giving up something for 40 days or making temporary changes before Holy Week, we should reflect on how we might make lasting changes in our lives—changes that lead us toward simplicity, contentment, and spiritual fulfillment.