The Joy of Living with Two Suitcases: Embracing Simplicity in Ethiopia

In the journey of life, we often find ourselves laden with possessions, seeking comfort and status through material acquisitions. However, my adventure began when I moved to Ethiopia, carrying only two suitcases of clothes. This minimalist lifestyle has since become a profound source of happiness, shaping my outlook on what truly matters.

When I embarked on this new chapter in Ethiopia, uncertainty shadowed my every step. The job I had taken felt precarious, and the work environment was initially unwelcoming. I remember feeling a wave of doubt wash over me, questioning my decision to move to a land so far from home. Yet, as the days turned into weeks and weeks into months, I began to unravel the beauty of Ethiopia and its people.

A Culture of Simplicity

Immersing myself in Ethiopian culture, I was struck by the simplicity that pervades daily life. The Ethiopian way is one of modesty, focusing on community and connection rather than material wealth. People here find joy in the present moment, nurturing relationships and cherishing experiences over possessions. This cultural ethos resonated deeply with me, challenging my previous notions of success and happiness.

The simplicity of the Ethiopian lifestyle brought to light a poignant truth: happiness is not found in the accumulation of things but in the richness of experiences and the depth of human connections. My two suitcases of clothes, once a symbol of limitation, transformed into a testament to the freedom that comes with less.

Lessons from Adversity

Living in Ethiopia, I also encountered ethnic conflict and faced near-death experiences that starkly reminded me of life's fragility. These harrowing moments crystallised a pivotal realisation: collecting material goods offers no solace in the face of danger and uncertainty. Instead, it is the knowledge we gather and the moments we live fully that bring true fulfilment.

Such experiences underscored the importance of living in the moment. Every day became an opportunity to learn and grow, to appreciate the beauty in simplicity and the profoundness in everyday interactions. The Ethiopian way of life, with its focus on simplicity and community, became my guide.

The Gift of Minimalism

Living out of two suitcases has taught me to prioritise what truly matters. I've learned to cherish the clothes I own, finding joy in their utility and the memories attached to them. This minimalist approach has freed me from the constant desire for more, allowing me to focus on personal growth and meaningful relationships.

To this day, I carry out this practice. My wife always asks, whenever I buy new clothes, "Which one will go out from your lot now?" Surprisingly enough, I always have an answer. Good clothes go to charity, while the worn ones find new purposes, whether as a rug, a play toy for my child, or something equally useful. Inspired by this, my wife has embraced the same principle, recently donating a bag full of clothes.

We are teaching this to our daughter, who at just seven years old, is becoming adept at understanding the value of simplicity and generosity. It's heartwarming to see her growing up with these values, learning to cherish what she has and to share with those in need.

A Poetic Embrace of Life

As I reflect on my time in Ethiopia, I am reminded of a poem by Mary Oliver, which captures the essence of living fully: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" This line, with its call to embrace life's fleeting beauty, resonates deeply with my experience. It is a reminder that life's value is not measured by what we own but by how we live and love.

My two suitcases of clothes have become a symbol of this poetic embrace of life. They are a reminder of the journey I've undertaken, the lessons learned, and the profound joy found in simplicity. Ethiopia has taught me that happiness is not a destination but a way of living, a choice to focus on what truly matters.

The Wisdom of Buddhism

The principles I have adopted are not new; they echo the teachings of Buddhism, which has long extolled the virtues of simplicity and mindfulness. In the words of Thich Nhat Hanh, "There is no need to run, strive, search, or struggle. Just be." This resonates deeply with my experience, reinforcing the idea that true contentment arises from within, from appreciating the present and letting go of material desires.

Conclusion

In a world often obsessed with material success, my Ethiopian adventure has revealed a different path to happiness. By embracing simplicity and living out of two suitcases, I've discovered the true essence of joy. It lies in the richness of experiences, the depth of human connections, and the beauty of living fully in each moment.

As I continue this journey, I carry with me the wisdom of Ethiopia and the profound realisation that happiness is found not in the accumulation of things, but in the simplicity of a life well-lived.

References:

1. The Guardian. "Why minimalism is the answer to our growing clutter problem." Link
2. Thich Nhat Hanh. "There is no need to run, strive, search, or struggle. Just be."