No need to be perfect

This fall, my mom and I ordered one of our favorite magazines, Whole Living. Our first issue came last week and just yesterday, I finally took it to the gym to read it cover to cover while I pushed through an hour on the bike.

Ever since I first picked up a copy of Whole Living at my aunts house, I have always beenintrigued by the articles which focus on refining daily life tomake it more pleasurable and carefree. The October issue featured this piece: Wabi Sabi Your Life. Wabi Sabi is a Japanese philosophy that glorifies imperfection. Rather than condemning minute flaws, such as a crack in an old teacup, it celebrates the beauty found in the uniqueness. The article touches on simple beauties in food, the home and even yourself.

This concept allows us to look more closely at the world and appreciate value in everything. It helps to enjoy what we already have, rather than wanting more. I sometime struggle with my mom always wanting a bigger kitchen or a perfectly clean bathroom. I get anxious with this demand for perfection. I'd rather find the flaws and appreciate them since nothing will ever be perfect.

With this found mindset, I have already found it easier to accept the world around me, my family, my house, and myself, with an open mind, ready and willing to embrace it.