Wherever We Land

Looking back on my life, there’s one lesson I wish I had learned earlier: the power of simple, minimalist living. For years, I tried to keep up with the Joneses, chasing after material possessions and lavish vacations, thinking that’s what life was all about. Fancy clothes, new gadgets, and the latest trends became part of my world, but in reality, all it did was push me deeper into debt, and I was left wondering where the peace and joy I was searching for had gone.

I remember the pressure to impress others, to show that I was doing well in life. Every time I saw someone go on an extravagant vacation or buy a new car, I felt the need to keep up. I convinced myself that I needed these things, too. If only I had realized sooner how empty and fleeting those purchases truly were. They brought temporary happiness, but when the bills started piling up, the stress outweighed any joy they initially brought.

What I didn’t see then, and what I see clearly now, is that if I had focused on working hard, paying my bills, and saving the rest, I would have created a much more fulfilling life. I would have had the funds to take trips that really mattered to me — like camping with my family and enjoying the great outdoors. Instead of chasing after status symbols, I could have embraced the things that truly bring me peace and contentment.

I dream of owning an RV now, and I think to myself, *if I had embraced minimalist living earlier, that dream might already be a reality.* I could have spent years exploring nature with my husband, Snatcher, creating memories and living the life I truly desire. But, hindsight is 20/20. I can’t change the past, but I can learn from it.

One of the greatest realizations I’ve had is that simple living is not about depriving yourself, but about prioritizing what matters. Instead of spending money on things to impress others, I wish I had learned to invest in experiences that would fill my soul. Those camping trips we now cherish would have been much easier to afford if I had saved for them earlier. Instead of chasing after things, I could have been chasing after sunsets and campfires under the stars.

Now, I see the wisdom in focusing on the necessities, paying off debt, and living within my means. It’s so liberating not to be tied to the constant need for more, but to find joy in less. Minimalism has taught me that life isn’t about accumulating things, but about appreciating what you have and making room for what truly matters.

I still dream of that RV, but I know now that getting there isn’t about chasing after things. It’s about working hard, living simply, and appreciating the journey as much as the destination. The life I’m building now is one centered on the things I love — time with family, enjoying nature, and honoring God. And that’s a life that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Hindsight is indeed 20/20, but I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Minimalist living has brought me a sense of peace I wish I had found sooner, but now that I have, I’m holding onto it with both hands.

— Nikki