Simplicity (wanderful)

I am feeling a bit philosophical, and this might sound a bit preachy. That said, it's wise words.

Beware simplicity, it is deceptive.

A simple solution works only for a simple problem. When tried on a complex problem, a simple solution will only create more troubles.

There is usually a problem with everything. If you don't know what the problem is with it, then therein is the problem. Similarly, if something seems easy or too good to be true, then it's because of your perception of the situation. You are missing on some part of it that would make obvious the flaws in the simple choice.

Simple objects are flawed. We do not posess the power to create simple machines to perform tasks; we must create complex machines that malfunction frequently. Our complex machines are composed of many parts, each of which is necessary to the proper function of the whole, and each of which is vulnerable to cripple it.

Only in nature is there simplicity, yet this, too is deceptive. Anything natural seems so simple. A small animal. An insect. A plant. But look at it more closely, and think of all the components that are in its design. Think of all that this creature can do, yet it appears so simple. That is because it deceives you.

Even water seems simple, yet it is not. It freezes and thaws, rises and falls, countless times. It metamorphises and crystallises. It nourishes and cleanses. Its incredible chemical properties make it so that it can do this. Were it not for the hidden complexities of water, life might not have been able to evolve. Lakes would freeze from the bottom up, and be unable to thaw from the top down. The world would be a cold and truly simple place.

Go out in the world and watch. See the birds in the trees, or the hustling people parade randomly through town, each following his or her simple goals, not realising how complex they really are.

Consider the consequences of every simple action. Does it have any consequences? Is it a simple action? By considering the consequences, are we making this simple action complex? Then it would not be as deceptive.

You might find that instead of questioning simplicity, it is better to accept complexity. Though one path may seem faster, by taking the longer one you avoid the hidden traps of the simple one. It may seem that you have lost time by taking the longer option, but in the end, time is only as you spend it, and you can make only one choice.

Though the complex may seem deceptive and cryptic, this semblance prepares you for twists and falls. If you always opt for simplicity, you become blind.

- RG>