Wabi sabi is the Japanese philosophy and art of appreciation for the beauty of the flawed or imperfect. A gentle thought of acceptance, yet it is a powerful concept.
In decor it has become popular as people clamor for reclaimed wood from old barns. Think vintage garden gate, or a hodge podge of cut sunflowers in an old watering can on the porch step. There is beauty in an uneven flagstone path, moss cushions peaking through here and there. Farmhouse tables wear history, the patina of time softening edges. Ivy meanders up a brick wall unplanned. The uneven glaze of a handcrafted bowl, a tribute to the artisan's effort. A vintage clock no longer keeps time but keeps the memories alive of hours well spent. There may be a chip in the teapot but it does not affect pouring a fragrant cup.
Wabi sabi is the candid snap shot of child missing his front teeth rather than a formal portrait. It is found in the prettiness of a young girl with a spattering of freckles across her porcelain nose. A smile full of crooked teeth still warms the heart. A kindergarten doodle framed by a budding Jackson Pollock adds flair to the kitchen wall.
Wabi sabi bespeaks acceptance of change as a natural process. That means there is beauty and grace in aging. Eyes crinkled from years of laughter, frown lines of loving concern are to be revered not reviled. Peaches and pickles should be well preserved not people. Wrinkle cream is wonderful but the pursuit of the appearance of eternal youth is unrealistic. Beauty radiates from within. It shines with creative spirit, a compassionate heart and a mind full of wisdom. Wabi sabi means accepting others as more precious than their flaws. It also means accepting oneself with the same loving eyes.
A pearl begins with an irritating imperfection. Covered with years of grace, becomes a thing of rare beauty.
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