Stop Clinging – The Minimalists

Letting go does not require a trip to Goodwill
or a purchase from The Container Store.

Because…

Letting go is not something you do.
It is something you stop doing.

You stop pretending every thing is precious or sentimental.
You stop holding on to unworn clothes and jewelry and makeup.
You stop treasuring dusty workout equipment and camping gear.
You stop cherishing those stacks of unread books and magazines.
You stop storing old home decorations in clutter coffins.
You stop buying new things that will soon turn into clutter.
You stop thinking that more square footage will lead to more fulfillment.
You stop attaching your identity to your car and house and bank balance.

Like carrying an oversized suitcase for a great distance,
you will benefit greatly by setting down any possession that weighs you down.

However…

Letting go extends beyond your material clutter.
If you truly want to let go…

You stop clinging to toxic relationships.
You stop acting like busyness is a good thing.
You stop posturing as if achievements make you, you.
You stop trying to “fix” every imaginary problem.
You stop turning to breaking news for information.
You stop mistaking information for wisdom.
You stop thinking success equals satisfaction.
You stop chasing happiness because you finally realize that externalities will never satiate your insatiable desire for more.

You see, letting go is not something you do.
It happens naturally when you stop clinging.

Like clutching a hot coal in your hand,
you must stop holding on
to stop the pain.

No matter the fixation—
be it possessions or people or prosperity—
clinging always leads to suffering.

Always.

Yet when you let go of the clinging,
you pick up freedom, peace, equanimity.

But if you hold on,
you will get dragged.