Originally Posted by bragi

Um, let's review the principles of living simply thus far:

1. Don't consume more than you need to.
2. Spend less than you make.
3. Try to live in a way that makes a decent future possible for our descendents.
4. Independence is good, but so is interdependence.
5. Participating in the economy is not slavery if you enjoy the work you do and find it meaningful, or even if not enjoyable, it is voluntary and allows you to eventually reach your personal goals in an honorable way. (Tandem, you really need to reflect on this one.)
6. Living simply doesn't mean you're allowed to be a jerk. It also doesn't protect you from your own stupidity and/or laziness. In fact some versions of simplicity may actually be more work than you ever imagined (but that depends on your definition of simplicity).