I’ve always found the Japanese culture simply fascinating. They have such a
disciplined and respectful nature. Also, they have an incredible knack for making everything beautiful. I mean look at their gardens! Today, I want to focus on the Japanese art of Kintsugi.
When a dish or plate breaks do the Japanese throw it away? No, they piece it back together using liquid gold or silver. They work to save the ceramic piece. They make it whole again and honor the broken places. The result is an entirely new plate, dish, or vase. An entirely unique piece of art. There is respect for what it once was, respect in the repair, and respect in the final piece. And where there was perhaps a beautiful vase, there is now an even more beautiful vase. The vase, even though it experienced a period of brokenness, was always valuable. The Japanese demonstrate such an ability for patience and recognition that while something is in need of repair, it is still worthy of respect and love.
If the Japanese take this much care with an inanimate object, imagine the kind of care they practice with each other. With themselves! I think they truly practice mindfulness from birth.
When we experience bouts of anxiety and depression, we feel a bit broken. Because we are. We are working through a period of illness. During these times we often feel less worthy than those who do not experience these challenges. Yet, maybe we could take the perspective we just need a bit of self-care–liquid gold
!
While we repair remember to focus on self-love and know that, yes, we are most definitely worthy! Each time we bring ourselves through this repair, we are creating a more unique and beautiful version of ourselves. -Namaste
microyogi 