In life, we don't always get what we want. There are times when we feel like a failure and broken. Not a few people feel insecure and disappointed with the failures they feel, and even end up feeling insecure with their shortcomings.
If you feel insecure, there is one Japanese philosophy that can teach you to accept your shortcomings and stop being insecure, you know! Summarizing from various sources, the following is an explanation of the Kintsugi philosophy derived from traditional Japanese crafts. Come on, see!
What is Kintsugi Art?
This philosophy is inspired by the art of Kintsugi. Derived from the words kin which means gold and tsugi which means repair, Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese craft that beautifies broken ceramic or pottery.
In Zen aesthetics, broken pieces of ceramic or pottery are joined together by means of lacquer that is sprinkled with or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. The essence of this art is to make the crack lines look more beautiful.
The Origin of Kintsugi Art
It is said that the origins of Kintsugi come from the Muromachi period. A Japanese shogon, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, accidentally breaks his favorite tea bowl. Desperate, Ashikaga sent the tea bowl to China for repair.
Unfortunately, the pieces of the tea bowl were only joined together using staples. This led Japanese craftsmen to look for ways to improve the tea bowl to make it look more attractive, which is now known as Kintsugi art.
Kintsugi's Philosophy Meaning
In life, so often we experience failure and disappointment. Kintsugi's philosophy is a reminder for us to stay optimistic and think positive when things don't go our way.
Kintsugi's philosophy also teaches us that imperfections don't have to be covered up. Like broken pottery turned into more valuable items with the art of Kintsugi. So, imperfection doesn't mean things will end badly.
The Key to Peace in the Kintsugi Philosophy
There are two keys that we can apply to make peace with the shortcomings of the Kintsugi Philosophy. First, admit your shortcomings and remain grateful. When we begin to learn to admit our shortcomings, we will see it as a positive thing.
Second, learn from the past and failures. It's okay if we are currently experiencing failure because everyone must have experienced it. But, keep in mind that no experience is wasted. Everything we experience can be a lesson, including failure.
Failure alone can be the most important lesson in life. Learn from that failure to get a better chance.
Stop feeling insecure. Even we can use our shortcomings to live a better life. However, the shortcomings that we have are one of the building blocks of our character. Spirit!