“I am ashamed of myself because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.”
The old woman smiled: “Did you notice that there are flowers on your side of the path, but not on the side of the other pot? Because I have always known about your flaw, I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you water them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.”
Each of us has his or her unique flaw. But it’s the particular cracks and flaws that each one of us brings that make our lives together so interesting and rewarding. Like puzzle pieces that fit just so, our edges and curves help us form a bond that would not have been possible otherwise. When you take everyone for what they are, it is easier to find the good in their singularity.
Today, think about one of your “cracks” and see if you can find the Wabi Sabi beauty and perfection in it. ■
