
In the delicate tapestry of life, I found myself entangled in a relentless pursuit of perfection, a struggle that echoed through both my personal and professional journeys.
The fear of judgment and the pressure to conform cast shadows over the unique facets of my identity, obscuring the beauty found in imperfections. Little did I know that the revelation of Kintsugi and the journey to embrace my whole self would be sparked by a profound shift—a shift that occurred with the passing of my mother in 2016.
The art of Kintsugi, originating in 15th-century Japan, offered me a profound metaphor for the beauty of imperfection and the acceptance of scars as integral parts of our history. Inspired by this art form, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, a journey that gained new depth and urgency when life's impermanence revealed itself through the loss of my mother.
In the wake of her passing, I confronted the finite nature of life, a realization that cast a new light on the imperfections I once perceived in my mother. The regrets and missed opportunities became poignant reminders that life is too short to be spent chasing an unattainable ideal. It was a transformative moment that pushed me to reevaluate my priorities, to mend the fractures within myself, and to celebrate the essence of who I am.
Kintsugi, with its philosophy of golden repair, became a beacon of wisdom. It wasn't just about concealing the cracks but about highlighting them with precious metals—gold, silver, or platinum. The repaired object, displaying both the old and the new, became a badge of honor, recognizing the gold repairs as life experiences that make us who we truly are.
As a professional, the principles of Kintsugi began to manifest in my approach to setbacks and challenges. Instead of viewing them as failures, I saw them as opportunities for growth and refinement. This shift in perspective not only enhanced my creativity and problem-solving skills but also fostered a collaborative and resilient team culture.
In leadership, the influence of Kintsugi extended beyond personal growth to transform my leadership style. Embracing imperfections within the team became a source of strength, enriching our collective narrative and fostering a sense of belonging. I understood that the cracks in our collective experiences were the golden threads weaving a tapestry of strength and resilience.
Becoming a mother introduced a new layer to my journey of self-acceptance. The impermanence celebrated in Kintsugi mirrored the constant ebb and flow of parenthood. Yet, it was the lessons from my daughter that truly illuminated the path. Every time she proclaimed that I was the perfect mom for her, I realized the profound impact of embracing imperfections. Through her innocent eyes, I saw the beauty in the imperfect moments, learning that perfection lies in the authenticity of the connection we share.
In striving to be the perfect mother for my daughter, I found a renewed purpose to guide the upcoming generations toward embracing their whole selves at an earlier stage in life. I recognized the importance of fostering an environment where imperfections are celebrated, and where the journey of self-discovery begins with love and acceptance. I hope that by embodying these principles, my daughter and those I have the pleasure to work with will embrace their uniqueness and navigate the complexities of life with resilience and authenticity.
In the golden repair of Kintsugi, I discovered not only the strength to mend my own fractures but also the power to inspire others to do the same. Life's imperfections, much like the cracks in the pottery, are not blemishes to be hidden but stories to be shared, celebrated, and embraced. The repaired vessel stands as a testament to the wisdom gained through the journey, a harmonious blend of the old and the new, reflecting the richness of a life lived authentically.
As we stand on the threshold of a new calendar year, it presents itself as the perfect opportunity for reflection and renewal. Just as the art of Kintsugi transforms brokenness into beauty, the dawn of a new year allows us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, embracing our imperfections and weaving them into the fabric of our evolving selves. The turning of the calendar pages symbolizes not just the passage of time but the potential for growth, resilience, and the creation of a more authentic life.
In the gentle embrace of a new year, I extend an invitation to you—to celebrate the old and the new, to integrate all parts of yourself into that perfect being we are born to be. Embrace your imperfections, for within them lies the unique mosaic of your journey, waiting to be honored, cherished, and woven into the tapestry of your authentic self.Â
As the year unfolds, may the art of golden repair guide you toward self-acceptance, resilience, and the discovery of the profound beauty that resides within every crack and crevice of your being.
Great Reading!