13 Mar Life Lessons from the Strangest Places (Post 4)
Have you ever admired a worn, leather object; maybe a wallet or purse, a belt or even a jacket? Have you ever reflected on the fact that the beauty you’re admiring comes not from perfection but, in fact, from the imperfection created by time’s erosion. This beauty is sometimes called “patina”, a natural ageing process valued by many.
Maybe it wasn’t the imperfections of leather you admired; maybe it was the beauty found in nature, in which there are no “perfect” lines or neatness but rather, a glorious mess in which many of us find a sense of awe and wonder. Or maybe it was a piece of broken porcelain, the repair of which made something quite unique, and the uniqueness of which elicits admiration and respect.
If you’ve experienced anything like this then you’ve experienced something akin to the Japanese philosophy of “wabi sabi”, an awareness of the transient nature of earthly things and a corresponding pleasure in the things that bear the mark of this impermanence.
Which brings me to today’s life lesson from what might be considered an unusual place, the place of failure and lostness, of imperfection and impermanence.
Happiness need not just be found in that which is fantastic and fabulous. There is happiness to be found in the seemingly ugly and absurd, in that which appears wrong or incorrect.
Surprisingly to some, even in a work or business context, this holds true. Research suggests that leaders who show vulnerability and authenticity (forms of imperfection) are more trusted and more highly respected and regarded. This can just as easily be applied to parenting, friendship, and pretty much every aspect of or role in life.
So next time something breaks, or goes wrong, next time you find yourself where you didn’t want to or expect to be, look for the beauty in the beast, the joy in the joke. Accept and embrace ALL of life, including that which might at first not seem like an attractive proposition for your love.
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