Mama Says Om - Simple

This week, the theme at Mama Says Om is simple.

The word comes to us through the Middle English and Old French simple, thence from the Old Latin word simplus, all meaning single or singular. When used to describe things or objects, the adjective simple indicates that they are composed of one element or component and are easy to understand or uncomplicated, i.e. lean, spare, uncluttered and unornamented. When describing a person or a mode of thought, it connotes unassuming, unpretentious or unaffected - occasionally it is a synonym for common, ignorant, unworldly, naive or lacking in intellect. In biology, simple describes an organic structure such as a leaf, which has no branches or divisions, and herbalists use simple as a noun to describe medicinal plants and the medications which can be derived from them, ointments, essential oils, tinctures and infusions.

We all have our own ideas about the state of simplicity and being simple. As much as I love vibrant colour, simple often means working in black and white photos, and painting with fewer brushstrokes and a less vibrant palette, one composed mostly of blacks, whites and textured creams with occasional small splashes of red or indigo for emphasis.

The simple things in life are enjoyable, but they are often the most difficult things to do or achieve. Black and white photographs are the most difficult images to capture, and simpler artistic works are the most challenging exercises by far - in creating them, an artist cannot conceal poorly executed or superfluous brushstrokes, and there are fewer opportunities to impress a viewer with one's vast knowledge and impeccable technique. Each element in a simple work seems to exist in a much stronger light and have greater significance, and the same is true for the creator of the work - one is revealed in all her creative mastery, mediocrity or incompetance. It is the simple things which tell us the most about ourselves, and facing truths about ourselves is a painful business to be sure.

The incense bowl on the table in my meditation space is a good example of simplicity. Once a tea bowl, it is a plain earthenware receptacle which holds a little sand, and in the evenings a lighted wand of Shoyeido's Plum Blossom incense. Simple in its form, function and execution, it is perfect, just as it is.