Spartan Simplicity

The Spartan lifestyle was known for its simplicity.  Dictionary.reference.com gives a definition of the word "spartan" as  simple, frugal, or austere: a Spartan diet; a spartan lifestyle.  The origins of this adjective comes from the way of life characteristic of the people of Sparta.  It's a lesson in America we all need to learn.  Life has become so complicated.  Sometimes we need to think forward.   Simple living can afford us opportunities we might not otherwise experience.   Living simply could free up our finances to travel more.   We could eat better and exercise more.  It would give us more time to smell the sweetness of life.  Today, take a moment to thank the people of Sparta for showing us the way to lead a simpler life.

Spartan Single Mindedness

I am part Spartan. Occasionally, I substitute teach. There are times where I get the opportunity to highlight my Spartan identity, particularly, if it is in a social studies or literature class dealing with that topic. Students have related to Sparta through the movie "300". Because of this some people when they think of the culture of Sparta, think of a violent society whose total focus was on war and preparing their children for it. While this may be true. I tend to look at the positives. The people of Sparta were a single-minded people. They were resolute and did not waver in their decisions. Perhaps, the Corinthian diplomat in me overshadows this tremendous trait that the people of Sparta represent in my life.