Ever pondered how ancient philosophies continue to infiltrate our modern lives? Let's embark on a journey all the way back to 7th century Japan!
So there is that old text called Seventeen-Article Constitution, credited to Prince Shōtoku, which has left an unerasable imprint on Japanese culture. Its premier article, "Harmony is to be valued," resounds even today, shaping the contours of contemporary society.
Fundamentally, this principle promotes cherishing harmony in all facets of life and relationships. It's less about sidestepping conflict and more about actively pursuing balance and understanding. This perspective manifests in community interactions, mutual respect, and the profound appreciation of nature's splendor in Japanese culture.
This harmony-centric mindset has even seeped into 'wabi-sabi,' an aesthetic sensibility that uncovers beauty in imperfection and transience. It's about savoring fleeting moments and accepting reality as is - a refreshingly simple yet potent concept in our relentlessly fast-paced world!
As with all philosophies, there are also critics against it. Some argue that excessive emphasis on harmony could potentially stifle individuality and innovation. I've experienced this struggle firsthand while working in a rather conservative environment at a university, where maintaining "harmony" was challenging. It's a delicate balancing act between collective harmony and individual uniqueness, a test we all face in different realms of life.
So, as you go about your day, why not trying to remember Prince Shōtoku’s timeless wisdom : Harmony isn't just about agreement, it's about understanding, balance, and accepting the beauty in imperfection. And why not going for a little challenge: try a 'wabi-sabi' approach to your next personal project! Embrace the process, embrace its imperfections, embrace the conflicts and find peace within.
By the way, I'd love to share an artwork of mine that embodies the “harmony” of tradition and innovation. The prominent character says "和 (harmony)" in the style of a hanging scroll, but it's innovatively crafted from denim with calligraphy applied directly using acrylic paint. Notice the intentional distressing on the denim! Hope you can feel the harmony embodied in this piece.
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