Wabi-Sabi

Introduction

I started writing "Wabi-Sabi" in 2020 after being inspired by the Japanese philosophy with the same name, which embraces the concept of "Perfectly Imperfect." This philosophy reminds me of someone, myself.

This story holds a special place in my heart. Not that my other stories aren't special, but this one has been on a roller coaster journey. In 2020, when I started writing what was supposed to be the original version of Wabi-Sabi, I stopped after about ten chapters and decided to revise the entire story. So, I created Wabi-Sabi on the 12th of June, 2020. I then revised it on the 2nd of December, 2020, and finished it on the 27th of January, 2021. After that, I took another break. But now, I've decided to do more than just a minor revision. I want to add some plot twists to make it even more engaging. This journey has been full of ups and downs, but it's taught me so much about storytelling and perseverance.

During the years 2023 to 2024, I found myself grappling with insecurities about my body shape. I felt an intense pressure to attain an hourglass figure, believing it was the key to garnering acceptance and admiration from others. I was fixated on the idea that unless I achieved this ideal, I wouldn't be worthy of love or appreciation.

However, as time passed, I began to realize the fallacy of this mindset. I came to understand that true beauty and worthiness are not dictated by conforming to societal standards. Instead, I discovered the importance of embracing a healthy body image for my own sake, independent of external validation.

I used to be consumed by worries about how others perceived me – from my appearance to my every movement. The fear of judgment weighed heavily on me, overshadowing my sense of self-worth. Nevertheless, let's not dismiss the fact that our obsession with perfection is often fueled by societal pressures.

Through the process of writing "Wabi-Sabi," I've learned to challenge these insecurities and redefine my perception of perfection.

This story is dedicated to everyone who, like me, has felt imprisoned by the relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal. May it serve as a beacon of hope, reminding you that true perfection lies in accepting and celebrating our imperfections.

Wabi-Sabi is  also a gift to myself – a celebration of my journey towards self-acceptance and self-love. I now understand that the path to happiness is paved with self-compassion and authenticity, not with striving for an unrealistic standard imposed by society.

Wabi-Sabi will also receive its full English version, marking a significant milestone in its journey. This translation will open up the story to a wider audience, allowing readers who don't speak the original language to experience its beauty and depth. It's an exciting step forward, bringing the essence of Wabi-Sabi to even more people around the world.