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Writer's pictureKalina Bains

Wabi-Sabi and Kintsugi: Embracing Imperfections


Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that celebrates imperfection, transience, and the beauty of the natural world. It encourages us to appreciate the simple, imperfect, and fleeting moments in life. Here are some key points:


  • Imperfection: Wabi-Sabi teaches us to find beauty in things that are imperfect, asymmetrical, and weathered. It’s about accepting the cracks, wrinkles, and signs of age as part of life’s journey.

  • Simplicity: Minimalism and simplicity are at the heart of Wabi-Sabi. It’s about finding joy in the ordinary and unadorned.

  • Transience: Nothing lasts forever. Wabi-Sabi reminds us to embrace impermanence and appreciate the fleeting nature of existence.


Kintsugi: The Art of Repairing with Gold


Kintsugi embodies the essence of Wabi-Sabi. It’s a Japanese practice that restores broken pottery using gold or silver lacquer. Instead of hiding the cracks, Kintsugi highlights them, turning the broken pieces into unique works of art. Here’s how it relates to our story:


  • Custom and Aged: The custom-made necklace, despite its age, holds sentimental value. Similarly, Kintsugi repairs honor the history of an object, making it even more precious.

  • Metaphor for Love: Just like the woman’s favorite old jeans, blouse, and sandals, Kintsugi teaches us that imperfections can be cherished. The cracks in the pottery become part of its history, much like the love and memories associated with her grandmother’s necklace.


The Woman and Her Belongings


Imagine our woman, wearing her worn but comfortable jeans and blouse, her sandals molded to the shape of her feet. These items are like old friends, familiar, comforting, and uniquely hers. They’ve seen laughter, tears, and countless moments. And just like the Kintsugi pottery, they carry stories of resilience and love.


In her heart, the necklace, though not valuable by conventional standards, is a treasure. It’s a link to her grandmother, a symbol of enduring love. The necklace, like the woman’s other belongings, embodies Wabi-Sabi, a celebration of the beauty found in imperfection and the passage of time.


So, let’s celebrate the woman’s Wabi-Sabi lifestyle, where comfort, memories, and love intersect.


References:

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