August 13th marks the beginning of Obon in Japan—a special time when we welcome our ancestors’ spirits back home.

When I look at myself, I realize that both the parts of me I love and the parts I sometimes dislike have all been passed down to me from my ancestors.

That made me think: if I ever deny or reject who I am, it’s almost like rejecting one of my ancestors who came before me.

…And that is something I never want to do.

There are so many people who kept passing down the torch of life from the distant past, and their blood and love are what make up who I am today. It’s okay not to be perfect. It’s okay to have flaws. I want to cherish and accept this very self that is living right here, right now.

During this special season of Obon, as our ancestors visit us, I want to quietly fold my hands in my heart and say, “Thank you for everything. I will cherish myself and live fully.”

I’m sure the sun (Otentosama) is watching over us with that same gentle warmth, too.

#Obon #Ancestors #CircleOfLife #SelfAcceptance #FamilyRoots #DailyReflections #MindfulLiving #EssayBlog #KeepSmiling