Wabi sabi~

I have two mothers. A biological mother, and a spiritual mother (although there are no real words to do her justice). Birthing me into this world, and into the woman I am daily becoming, I thank God for you both.

My spiritual mother mentors. She teaches me, chides me, frustrates the snot out of me…and relays truth to me—in unexpected times and avenues—and always for this (usually/ admittedly most of the time long after the * revelation times *) I am profoundly grateful.

One such truth seed was planted in my heart and mind by her with the introduction to the concept of “wabi sabi.” It was when I was living with her on her farm, and I was seeking the peace and tranquility and life that her home seemed to exude from its very core—covering every inch of the dwelling—from the rooftop to the rugs.

She knew what I was seeking *she always has, I believe * was wabi sabi—to be embraced, understood, acknowledged—and truly lived~

“Pared down to its barest essence, wabi-sabi is the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection and profundity in nature, of accepting the natural cycle of growth, decay, and death. It's simple, slow, and uncluttered-and it reveres authenticity above all.”

Barest essence.

Finding Beauty in Imperfection.

Accepting Life (and Death) in its Natural State.

Simple.

Slow.

Uncluttered.

And, my favorite…wait for it….authenticity above all.

After hearing just this concept from her, I became insatiable in my research--of what I now see as a salvation of sorts in my life. Wabi sabi exists everywhere, in everything, if we can only cultivate it—or moreso—allow it to exist and embrace it--as it is daily right in front of our very eyes…right there—hidden beneath all of our clutter, our drama—our masochistic quest for unbending perfection.

Wabi sabi is even known in the art and interior design world…it is minimalist. It strips away the clutter, the garish colors and austentatious, gaudy accoutrements—all that is unnecessary—leaving only a stark and striking, austere beauty.

I see wabi sabi much as a challenge (to me I am saying…take what you will) to dare to take off the delusional/ life stealing/ grass is always greener/ covetous of others/ rose-colored glasses…and gaze upon this world…the world in which I now live…in all its sepia toned splendor…and begin to see the radiance--of simple shadings--shadings that only light and dark provide. Yes, the light and the dark. The shadows and coal black lines casting a poignant contrast to the radiance of the alabaster angles…making up this masterpiece of balanced “be-ing.”

Wabi sabi…applauding that quiet, undeclared beauty and grace…silently, patiently, waiting to be unearthed from beneath the “other”—I praise life that you exist…and that in the light and perspective of you—even I, am breathtaking~