ikigai   def: a reason for being

i have a thing for words from other languages that encapsulate something striking.  it lights me up to hear an idea articulated succinctly.  with just a few letters.

someday, i’ll travel to japan…until then, i’ll dote on the word ikigai,  and how much it’s message of finding the meaning of your life resonates with me in the very center of my body.

i recently heard author elizabeth gilbert say she had stopped using the word meditation…instead, she sits for 15 minutes to “contemplate her existence”.  YES!

i love what becomes clear when we contemplate our existence :)

my web designer campaigned for me to not have photographer in my logomark and today i see why.  i feel more like a human who enjoys showing up to love people than a photographer.

photography is the access pass.

but the loving part is what i can’t help but do.

it’s less about everyone looking at the camera and more about taking a deep breath while you hold someone close enough to get tickled by their hair.

and maybe i’m also a champion for you living your best possible life.  i’m on that same path and enjoy sharing what i find.  annie o’shaunessy has a term called “soul flares”… it’s what happens when someone shines their light. it doesn’t matter what it is – a song, a smile, a yummy homemade soup.   they send out a flare of light that inspires others to shine.

glad for such lovely company in the shining department – you do, you know :)

love and more love,
-melanie-

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