Quotes to inspire you this spring
Once again, it is Spring – the best season, as far as I am concerned. Sadly, my petition to have the New Year begin on March 21st and have Spring as the year’s first season has received no traction. However, I think we can all agree that there is something magical about the emergence of nature from its winter slumber. It could be argued that such a pleasant season doesn’t require it, but we are here to inspire you, nonetheless!
The weather is improving, the days are getting longer and nature is in bloom. In fact, MY nature is in bloom – my Cherry tree is joining in with the joys of spring and is giving me intense wistful feelings of wanting to be in Japan. Maybe next year.
(Polly from the future – I DID in fact get to go in 2023 – check out my favourite pictures! )
One of the reasons why spring is so important in Japan, particularly the cherry blossom season, is because of the links between the culture and the life cycle of the flowers. The temporal nature of blossom reminds us to enjoy the present, as soon these times will be over.
That is why we have sourced five Japanese’kotowaza’; sayings and proverbs that make us think of spring, and the world around us.
Ichi-go ichi-e
This term is not so much about having a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but acknowledging that every experience is different, and can never be replicated. Therefore, every occasion is a once-in-a-lifetime event.
You may be familiar with this sentiment if you have ever returned to a place where you had a childhood holiday or attended an event. It is never the same the second time around, even if the venue and the people are.
The phrase is reminding us to enjoy the moment, as it will never be repeated. It is thought that the saying dates back to the 16th century, particularly the Japanese tea master Sen no Rikyū.
Tea ceremonies have long been an important cultural practice in Japan, and display many aspects of Zen Buddhism. It is about seeking peace and taking time to remove yourself from the outside world.
Mono no aware
This is another one of those famous Japanese quotes that are hard to literally translate. There are various attempts all over the internet from ” an empathy toward things”, “an awareness of impermanence” and “the pathos of things”.
They all generally boil down to the idea that all things are temporary, and while we can enjoy them while they last, there is still the bittersweet knowledge that it will all come to an end.
Other posts for you to enjoy
5 Japanese Idioms for Language Learners – more quotes to inspire you with your language learning
My language learning journey – How it is going so far…
The first trip to Japan – let these video clips inspire you to make your own trip to Japan
Mizu ni nagasu
At the end of cherry blossom season, many of the flowers have fallen into rivers and waterways, creating a pink carpet. Then, just as quickly as they bloomed, they are carried away. What is done, is now done.
Many Japanese sayings have English equivalents, and this is one example. The translation of this phrase: ‘ let the water carry it away’, is very similar to the expression; ‘water under the bridge’.
It is about letting go of what has passed, about forgiving and moving on.
hana yori dango
Technically this phrase translates as ‘dumplings over flowers’, but the sentiment remains the same.
It is an idiom that emphasises the importance of choosing logic over looks. While flowers are beautiful, they offer no sustenance if you are hungry. Choosing aesthetics over practicalities is rarely sensible.
Comfort over style – a saying that becomes more true as the years go by!
As I have worked on decluttering my home I have often questioned why I keep some things and not others and have come to the conclusion that a house full of useful things is better than a house full of pretty things that have no purpose.
Ashita wa ashita no kaze fuku
Do you ever put something off and think ” tomorrow me can worry about that”.
Sometimes this is not helpful- like putting off doing the dishes, so they have now piled up and you have no more plates! But, sometimes we need to be aware that worrying about something does not help in any way.
When you sleep on a problem you may awake with a new perspective. Tomorrow is, literally, another day, and you never know what direction you may be blown in.
Over to you
What sayings inspire you? Have you found wisdom in ancient idioms or sage sayings? Are there any phrases that motivate and keep you going? Let us know in the comment.
