finding sabi in morocco
So why sabi and not wabi or for that matter why not wabi-sabi?
The simple answer is that sabi best represents me and my journey.
I’ve read a number of articles and books on the topic and the most simple description I’ve come across happened to be in an Oprah article.
“Wabi means something like simplicity, humility, and living in tune with nature; it describes someone who is content with little and makes the most of whatever he or she has, always moving toward having less.” As much as I try to simplify, I haven’t been successful with being free of material possessions – nor do I want to be at this stage in my life. A future goal perhaps.
“Sabi, on the other hand, refers to what happens with the passage of time; it’s about transience and the beauty and authenticity of age. Practicing sabi is learning to accept the natural cycle of growth and death, as well as embracing the imperfections that come with this progression.” I’ve had an appreciation for the imperfect and the worn since I was a child. So much of what sabi represents speaks to me. Now accepting the aging process for myself? Well…that’s going to be a process for sure.
“Together, wabi and sabi form a feeling that finds harmony and serenity in what is uncomplicated, unassuming, mysterious, and fleeting.” So in other words, “this aesthetic isn’t junky, messy, or shoddy. It’s also not shabby chic – you won’t find new items intentionally distressed in order to look antique. Instead, the beauty of wabi-sabi appears when age and time are allowed to take their intended course.”
So here I am embarking on this thing called aging and appreciating the beauty in it. I guess that’s it in a nutshell and why I chose sabi. But, I reserve the right to toss in a wabi every now and then. <smile>
I just wanted to take the time to explain how I came about using the word sabi and to give a brief explanation for anyone not familiar at all with the terms. Going forward it all simply relates to the art of aging and finding beauty in the imperfections whether it’s an object or myself.
For anyone wanting to take a deeper dive, there’s a number of books published on the subject. One I suggest is Leonard Koren’s Wabi-Sabi for Artists, Designers, Poets & Philosophers.
Oh sabi….Yes, yes, yes! I relate so much and with a touch of wabi, too.
What a beautiful subject to focus on.
I just feel there needs to be more discussion around aging. So many thoughts and feelings! And I know you’ll be a great contributor! Thank you!❤️
You must have read my mind, Robin, because I was, indeed, curious about the stand-alone sabi. I first learned about wabi-sabi from you, years ago, and have been intrigued and informed by it ever since. The way you have described the different aspects of this compound noun makes perfect sense to me…and why you would want to separate the meanings now, as well as combine them when appropriate for you. From what you have written, I am quicker to add the wabi part, but then…I’m a bit older than you and not too long ago went through the process of getting rid of most of my material life to move to another country. I do, however, still add a few items over time that truly speak to me. What YOU add to your own soulfulness is a vicarious addition to my own life, if that makes sense. So thank you.
Yes, I thought that was a good start. I’ve spent a bit of time researching and reading about wabi-sabi and the differences between the two. I do think as I age the wabi part will come around as well. After corporate and feeling like I needed to contribute somehow, I worked as a personal assistant to a guy here in Scottsdale. He had a house full of boxes and after sorting for months and tossing and organizing, I vowed to do the same with my own stuff. (But note, I wasn’t in his league, ha!) Then I cleaned out my sister’s house who passed away four years ago and over the past several years I’ve been cleaning out my mom’s house in anticipation of the sale. Unfortunately I haven’t tended to mine like I need to, but it’s certainly on my mind as all of these experiences have been telling. As you’re aware I started my “storied objects” series so I could make books of the items that are dear to me because I know I can’t continue having all this stuff as I age. Thank you for “getting” all of this!! Thank you!
I think I am going to love this Sabi. As I said before, nothing wrong with growing older with “character”. It represents who we are, don’t hide behind the artificial and go for pure.
Wonderful picture to start with,.
And you know that we will follow you and your “quest”……
Thanks Astrid! “Pure” is a good word for the aging process and one that I’m slowly embracing. About two years ago, I quit getting my nails painted. After all those years of doing it, I just feel like getting back to just “pure” clean short nails. And I love it! Plus I dig in the dirt a lot, ha!
Well, this is so very interesting and I have no trouble at all embracing total sabi, it makes perfect sense!
Thanks Susan! I know that you’ll have some great thoughts on some of my future topics!
Oh, I LOVE this! I’m totally embracing my sabi process of life too, and I can’t wait to take this new journey with you. Looking forward to each new update. XoXo
Thanks dear! I’m looking forward to digging in after I finish up my visit with my mom. So many interesting topics regarding aging and accepting where we are and where we’re going! xo
Thank you for the teaching. Sabi is beautiful…
Thank you Katherine!
Oh good – the comments are back!!!
I can relate to what you share so very much:) I find myself comfortable with my aging process
until something – usually very small – makes me shudder at the sudden change. Also usually with my skin
which has mostly not been shielded from the sunshine despite the dire warnings. My skin tells on me more
than I’d expected.
Much brave love to all the wabi and sabi of you:)
-Jennifer
Thank you so much Jennifer. I can so relate and I’m sure many others can as well. Thanks for coming along on this new journey!