Well, that's it. Darla has finally lost it and now she's talking gibberish. 

Nope. Japanese, actually. Wabi Sabi and It's not the stuff you order with your sushi...

Wabi Sabi (from Wikipedia)

In traditional Japanese aesthetics, Wabi-sabi (侘寂) is a world view (sic) centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection.[2] The aesthetic is sometimes described as one of beauty that is "imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete."

Pinterest

My father passed away in January. Since then, I have been doing a bit of reflection and soul-searching. Just when life is chugging along and things start falling into place, God, Mother Nature, the Matrix or the Disembodied Cloud Dude (whatever your belief may be - work with me here) likes to throw us a little reminder that we are just imperfect, ephemeral bags of carbon with a one-way ticket at the end of the show. We are mortal, flawed and broken.

But, as depressing as that may seem on the surface, closer inspection reveals an even deeper beauty within that human experience. Every scar, every broken thing is a badge of survivorship. There but for the grace of the Disembodied Cloud Dude, go I. 

And just like in our lives, that same beauty can be mirrored in our home and surroundings. Instead of striving for unmarred perfection, savor the dings, dents, cracks, and scratches. They tell a story. They have a history. Perfection is so boring anyway.

Home Adore

When decorating your home with Wabi Sabi in mind, think about more than just simply decorating. Think comfort, utility, and purpose. Incorporate organic, off-kilter items that are authentic. How do you want to live in the space? What would your story be if someone entered that space? Would it read like a biography or more like a showroom catalog? 

Mixing Vintage and Modern in Home Decor


Mr. Perswall

In the spirit of Wabi Sabi, that cracked travertine on my poolside patio might drive me a bit less nuts. I can appreciate its natural, stone beauty and the organic "artwork" created by being used as my 12-year-old stepdaughter's cannonball springboard. I can look at that crack in a different light - with gratitude and love in my heart for that moment of historic joy and familial frivolity. OK. Who am I kidding? It's still gonna drive me nuts but you get the picture.

Cannonball Springboard

Have you used the Wabi Sabi philosophy in your home? We would love to hear about it in the comments below!

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