As we embrace the October issue of Magnet, we turn our hearts and minds to the timeless wisdom of St. Francis of Assisi. In a world filled with complexities and chaos, there is an undeniable allure of the simplicity of Francis. His life’s tales have always captivated us, but there is more to this choice than mere fascination. These are trying times. The anguish and suffering we witness in places like Manipur and Nuh, and across our nation, compel us to be bearers of peace. Pain comes in various forms—physical, mental, and spiritual.
October carries another special significance—the month of the Little Flower, my patron saint. The stories of Francis of Assisi and Little Flower revolve around a beautiful paradox—diminishing in size to serve a greater purpose. Becoming small does not mean diminishing our worth; rather, it is an assertion that small things matter.
Even the most cherished experiences in life often emerge from small gestures, like saying “thank you” or “I’m sorry.” Let us resurrect these simple acts of kindness. Let us empathize with one another and cultivate gratitude for the little things that enrich our lives. Imagine a world devoid of these small blessings; what would it be?
October also brings us Gandhi Jayanthi—a tribute to the small man who became monumental through his ideals and actions.
Within these pages, you will find a treasure trove of insightful articles. We delve into heartwarming stories of individuals who dedicated their lives to bring joy and solace to the less fortunate. Our cover stories celebrate the profound simplicity of Francis of Assisi and the call he extends to each of us to lead lives of love, simplicity and connections with life around, even in nature.
One article shares the profound experiences of those who participated in the ‘Mere ghar aakar toh dekho’ (Come into my home and be my guest) movement—a national campaign by people of goodwill. In a time marred by violence and suffering, how can we embrace simplicity and make life a celebration for others?
Certainly, leading lives of simplicity can indeed bring joy to others in several ways. Here are three key points along with elaborations:
Inspiration Through Example: Living a simple and uncluttered life serves as an inspiring example for those around us. When others witness our contentment and happiness derived from modest pleasures, they may feel encouraged to embrace simplicity as well. By doing so, they can reduce the stress and anxiety that often accompany the pursuit of material wealth and status, ultimately leading to greater joy in their lives.
Generosity and Sharing: Simplicity often involves de-cluttering our lives of unnecessary possessions and focusing on what truly matters. This can lead to a greater willingness to share and give to those in need. Whether it is donating our time, resources, or expertise, a simple life can free us from the desire for excess and encourage a spirit of generosity. Sharing with others not only brings joy to those in need but also fosters a sense of fulfillment and happiness in ourselves.
Reducing Environmental Impact: Embracing a simpler lifestyle often aligns with sustainable and eco-friendly choices. By consuming less and reducing our carbon footprint, we contribute positively to the environment. This can bring joy to others by helping to preserve natural resources and mitigate climate change, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. The movies reviewed in this issue features enchanting documentaries that beautifully showcase the art of treading the earth with reverence and affection. Dive into these films to discover inspiring stories of individuals and communities who embrace a sustainable and caring approach to our planet, reminding us of the profound connections we share with nature.
Creating Meaningful Connections: Simplicity can also enable us to focus on building meaningful connections with others. When we prioritize quality time with loved ones over material possessions or excessive work commitments, we strengthen our relationships. Our genuine presence and attention can bring immense joy to those we care about, fostering deeper connections and emotional well-being.
In summary, leading lives of simplicity can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to find joy in a less materialistic but more meaningful existence. It encourages generosity, reduces our environmental impact, and fosters authentic connections, ultimately contributing to the happiness and well-being of those around us.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our readers, writers, and the dedicated editorial staff who make Magnet possible. Your support and engagement allow us to explore the beauty of simplicity and the significance of the small things in life. Together, we can make the world a better place, one simple act of kindness at a time.
Pushpa Joseph
To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe
