According to the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary (© Cambridge University Press)

Simplicity is defined as: 
the quality of being easy to understand or do
the quality of being plain, without unnecessary or extra things or decorations
the fact that something is ordinary, traditional, or natural, and not complicated
the fact that something is easy to understand or do.

What is simplicity in life and why is it important?

It is about the removal of the unnecessary and being true to who you are. It may involve living more simply, appreciating the basics in life, finding joy in a colourful flower, savouring exquisite chocolate, smelling a beautiful perfume, being barefoot on a beach or watching the sunrise.

“Living simply entails stripping away the nonessential and focusing your time and energy on the things that matter the most.” Stacy Brookman: “ Real Life Resilience”

She writes of the benefits which include learning more about yourself, being true to your values, improving relationships, life is less cluttered and finances improve to name a few.

Peg, our Chaplain, reflected on simplicity in our Chapel service this week:

“It isn’t easy to live simply, in the moment, being present with the people and the situation you are in, but the following is helpful advice - sometimes the best thing you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, not obsess. Just breathe, and have faith that everything will work out for the best.

In our Founders’ Day service the Prefects traditionally reflect on the virtues of the College as they light a candle, a symbol of passing on the ‘light’ of Christ.

We would seek pleasure in simple things for such pleasure is available to all. We kindle this light that the spirit of simplicity may dwell within us.