There are two kinds of simplicity. The first is on this side of complexity. It is easy, cheap and superficial. It doesn’t ask for much. Neither does is give much in return. It will often lead you astray and keep you from what you need most: understanding.
The second kind of simplicity is on the far side of complexity. It is hard, expensive and significant. It asks for a great deal. It returns treasures. It will rarely lead you astray and it offers a prized possession: understanding.
If you’re in too much hurry, or if your mind is not open to new possibilities, or the fear is too intense, the first is easily mistaken for the second.
In Other Words…
“If you can’t explain it to a six year old, you don’t understand it yourself.” ― Albert Einstein
“Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful.” ― John Maeda, The Laws of Simplicity: Design, Technology, Business, Life
“Just because you don’t understand it doesn’t mean it isn’t so.” ― Lemony Snicket, The Blank Book
In The Word…
Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly. – Proverbs 14:29