Decluttering - An Act that Brings Peace

Some years ago, in order to create more compartments in my cupboard to cater the needs for extra space, I got a wooden drawer prepared. The drawer served its purpose well for some years. Later, due to certain changes in household setting, the drawer was no longer needed in my cupboard.

Nevertheless, the drawer was in good condition and could be used elsewhere (which I specifically did not know), so I kept on placing it here and there finding some other usage of it than that was initially intended at the time of its order.

After keeping it at different places, finding a purpose for its existence, for a couple of years, I had to admit that the drawer was no longer my need. However, a love for this possession and a fear that I might be needing it in the future kept me from giving it away.

Some months ago, while cleaning the store room, I felt irritated by the presence of drawer there. It was only taking space not adding much value to the organisation. I took it out of there and started thinking of some other place for its storage.

Honestly speaking, while I was not ready to let go of the belonging, it was causing me mental fatigue. Keeping the heavy wooden drawer of which I had no purpose was a burden. Finally, I took a deep breath and decided to give it away in charity.

The next day, I asked my maid if she would like to take it, and she agreed. Believe me, letting go of the dear possession brought me a the peace of mind. Its maintenence and safety was no longer there to keep my cognitive abilities engaged. I had not to worry about keeping some space for its storage. I was free, and at peace.

I have observed many times, decluttering helps creating peace and organization, not only in our physical environment but in our emotional realm also. Letting go of the unnecessary from our lives enhances our cognitive abilities, revitalizes our creativity, fosters mental clarity, enables growth and opens up space for new opportunities.

Nonetheless, often time we are reluctant to let go of the unnecessary belongings because of the perceived value attached to them. It happens to me too and decluttering becomes difficult, causing discomfort and stress to my mind.

Recognizing the importance of decluttering and the need of generosity for the attitude, I have come to realize an important aspect in which charity is beneficial for the giver. Apparently, the receiver seems to be at the benefitting end, but in reality the giver also achieves the bliss of peace.

This realization of giving away from our cherished belongings has made me understand the depth of Ayat 92 of Surah Al-Imran, “You shall not attain righteousness until you spend out of what you love (in the way of Allah). Allah knows whatever you spend.”

This Ayah of Quran is encouraging us to spend from the belongings we hold the dearest, offering us a greater purpose of seeking reward from God. While there are various interpretations and lessons to be drawn from this teaching, I have come to realize the profound sense of peace that arises from releasing our attachment to treasured possessions. By letting go, we free our minds from the clutter of materialism, creating space for tranquillity and spiritual fulfilment.

This post is my participation for Hl-featured contest edition 1 week 142

Image is taken by me using my mobile camera.