Where Are Your Treasures?

Back in the 1960’s “Mother Earth News” was extolling underground homes, earth sheltered homes, and solar heating—all unique, “green” methods endeavoring not to impact one’s environment negatively. Now we could also add wind turbines to the list as people continue to try to live “off the grid” or “go green”.

My older son has become interested in the minimalist lifestyle. Living in that fashion has been a challenge for him, partly because for generations, his family collected things. The grandparents all lived through “The Depression Era” and the phrase, “It’s too good to throw away” was almost a guiding principle.

However, I have been implicitly warned that much paring down has happened recently in Jeff’s home. He has become extremely interested in the Tiny House Movement and I must admit, for singles and couples, it really makes sense. I was able to tape some TV segments on Tiny House construction as well as Tiny Houses that are stationary which we watched this past week. (By the way, a “tiny house” dimensions are defined as 500 square feet or less.)

The question occurred to me: what’s the difference between a tiny house and a mobile home or large RV? The few articles I Googled supported my suspicion that Tiny Houses are generally custom built to fit your interests and desires as well as incorporating as much natural and re-purposed materials as possible. Open floor plans aid the impression of roominess and creative storage is a necessity.

The prime reasons for interest in these Tiny Houses seems to be  the mobility factor (like the turtle, your home can go with you everywhere), and the perceived freedom from “stuff.” (This would include less time needed for housework which piqued my interest immediately!) 

If you live 24/7 in 190-500 square feet you must take a very careful look at the things you deem necessary to comfort and peace of mind because paring down one's possessions is a necessity. Those who take the plunge into Tiny House living, for the most part, have not lived in this fashion for an extended time yet per the TV segments we watched. But they liked their cozy little nests and were delighted with the scenery they are living in or the places they are seeing, e.g. folks who move every few weeks or months like traveling nurses. Besides that, the price is right.

Interestingly enough, one segment featured an older couple looking to be in their late 60’s who have lived in their tiny house for over 20 years. The interior of their home looked delightful and the storage ideas were truly unique. The house’s exterior appearance suggested it was on a foundation although the size could have allowed it to be mobile as it was less than 300 square feet. Whether or no, they professed to love their home.

Anyone who has had to sort through belongings of a deceased loved one in preparation for a house sale would wholeheartedly vote for the paring down necessitated for Tiny House living. And one could say that it’s scriptural.  Matthew 6:19 warns, “Don’t collect things that can rust or be ruined by bugs or be stolen. Instead, store up treasure in heaven.” That type of treasure doesn’t have to find a storage spot in a Tiny House.:)