memories of japan 2018

"The most valuable thing I brought home from our 2018 trip to Japan was the inspiration ignited by the Japanese commitment to directing one's attention to the subtle and sublime, in big ways and small, throughout the course of everyday life.  Gardens draw one into delicate dimensions of reality through deepening shadows, shifting seasons, and wandering lines leading to hidden places.   The arts are regarded as not only a means to produce a beautiful product, but more importantly, to cultivate a more refined self.   Sound is artfully used to generate an experience of coolness and tranquility.  Closeness is deliberately created between people through carefully crafted gatherings like the tea ceremony, small customs like pouring each others sake, and tender sayings, like ichi-go ichi-e — 'this time will only happen this once.'" 

​— Ann