Richard Proenneke

I just finished reading the book One Man's Wilderness, which is the journal of Richard Proenneke. Proenneke built a small cabin on Twin Lakes in Alaska in 1968 at the age of 52. Hi remained living in the wilderness until 1998 when he left due to his age. Its now park of a national park.

I don't know if Proenneke was a conservative but he definitely believed in the simple life. He lived by himself and spent his days being productive and enjoying nature. He writes "Needs? I guess that is what bothers so many folks. They keep expanding their needs until they are dependent on too many things and too many other people. I don't understand economics, and I suppose the country would be in a real mess if people suddenly cut out alot of things they don't need. I wonder how many things in the average American home could be eliminated if the question were asked, "Must I really have this?" I guess most of the extras are chalked up to comfort or saving time. Funny thing about comfort--one man's comfort is another man's misery."

Proenneke's focus is on the little things in life. Watching birds and other wildlife. Fishing and Hunting, but catching only what is needed. Growing a garden. Building his own home and heating it with wood he splits himself. He reads books and writes letters to friends. He cooks and eats simple foods like beans. Although I don't plan on running off to Alaska I do think he was on to something. Focusing on the simple things in life can make a man happy. Also hard work is essential for happiness. Proenekke constantly found projects to work on when he wasn't doing needed work. He made furniture, carved spoons and bowls, built paths and cleaned up litter left by hunters around the lake.