It is difficult for anyone to deny that friends have an influence on us. Thanks to them we can adopt ways of thinking and acting, whether consciously or unconsciously. As I think about how I managed to decide to adopt a simpler lifestyle, with less, I think a lot had to do with the circle of people we were surrounded by for a while. Please allow me to tell you about it.

About a dozen years ago we became close friends with some older couples who had been married for decades. Some had raised children who had become independent. In previous years they had had lucrative businesses and lived comfortably. But now these people lived in small, simple homes. One of the couples had no home of their own, in fact. They lived in houses that they borrowed to take care of.

I observed their diet and it was very basic. Their diet was nutritious, balanced, although not the most varied. They already knew what they had to buy, what they needed and how many days their provisions would last. Yet, when they wanted to indulge, they knew when to indulge and with whom. Fortunately, we were with them at several of those times. Meanwhile, I, with an income a little higher than theirs, struggled to try to vary our diet, sometimes even acquiring things that were expensive. Perhaps with that same money I could have acquired something more profitable.

Since they managed their finances well and knew what they wanted, they knew how to say "no". They were sharp enough to know how to tuck themselves in as far as the blanket would carry them, avoiding unnecessary debt. Sometimes, I would ask them to buy or eat something, but they would kindly tell us that they could not do it for now. When it came to major outlays, I could see that they consulted together and also asked for advice. They were looking for help.

**What stood out the most.

All this did not mean that they were necessarily leading a life of deprivation, sad. We had good meetings and meals with them, traveled several times to local beaches, and enjoyed their good quality resources, such as their van and comfortable home. We often spent time together to help others. I benefited from his advice. Their happiness, their positive attitude, their simplicity and their sensible approach is what helped me to appreciate minimalism more.

What we experienced with them was one of the things that made me see the advantages of living a simple life. It is not necessarily living in deprivation. We could be happy using our resources in an efficient way. I am not saying that this is the key to happiness, because, in fact, those who practice maximalism are happy. I am simply highlighting what was my personal experience.

The upbringing I had during those years also made a dent in trying to change the way I think and act. But the company of these couples made me see in practice what it was like to live this way, and to see that it really works. I am grateful to them for the help they have given us in this and other aspects of our family life.