A Kintsugi Specialist

Examining the current state of the world, it becomes evident that we are inexorably moving towards an uncertain future, irrespective of any prophesies. The landscape is scattered with fragments – fragments of emotions, values, and the very essence of existence on this planet. Amid this chaos, it is imperative to introspect and ask ourselves a crucial question:

“What is my responsibility in such a turbulent world?”

If this inquiry plagues our thoughts daily, we are poised to undertake the task of “Golden Repair.”

What is this “Golden Repair”?

Now, what is this “Golden Repair”? No, it does not pertain to jewelry; my interest lies not in adornments but in the shattered fragments of individuals submerged in distress, pain, and suffering.

So, what does gold have to do with emotions and bitterness? Let me share an intriguing Japanese practice that imparts valuable lessons on how to console the brokenhearted.

Imagine a scenario where a bowl, teapot, or precious vase falls and shatters into a thousand pieces. Typically, our response is one of anger and regret, leading us to discard the fragments. However, the Japanese offer an alternative approach known as kintsugi, or kintsukuroi. “Kin” signifies golden, and “tsugi” denotes repair.

This traditional Japanese art involves using a precious metal – be it liquid gold or silver – to carefully reunite the fragments of a broken pottery item, simultaneously enhancing the breaks. The technique entails joining the fragments and giving them a renewed, more refined appearance.

Every repaired piece becomes a unique creation, owing to the inherent randomness in the way ceramics shatter, coupled with irregular patterns that are accentuated with the use of precious metals.

Similar to ceramic pottery, human hearts, minds, and emotions are fragile. When broken, they may seem irreparable. However, the truth is, they can be mended, much like the Kintsugi technique employing liquid gold and silver.

Golden Repair

Now, let's explore six factors or ways to perform a “Golden Repair” on a brokenhearted individual, using GOLDEN as an acronym:

1. G
   Gracious / GenerousBeing gracious and generous involves showing kindness, understanding, and a willingness to support without expecting anything in return. It's about extending a helping hand and offering comfort, acknowledging the person's pain, and demonstrating a compassionate attitude.
2. O
   Oscillate around a person in needBeing present and letting the broken-hearted know that he or she isn't alone, as handling brokenness along with loneliness is even more difficult. Remember, being present doesn't mean you have to be pushy or force your presence on the person, but just let them know that you are available and around.
3. L
   Listen actively and carefullyActive and careful listening is a powerful tool for healing. It's the best thing someone can give to the person — simply listening without talking or passing any judgments. Listening to their expressions and emotions more than their words is better and helpful because, at the time of their vulnerability, what they feel is more real than what they say.
4. D
   Diligent / PatientDiligence and patience go hand in hand in the healing process. Being diligent means consistently providing support, and being patient means understanding that healing takes time. It involves a commitment to the person's well-being, navigating through the ups and downs, and staying steadfast in your support.
5. E
   Empathy is the key to healEmpathy involves putting yourself in the other person's shoes, understanding their feelings, and responding with compassion. It goes beyond sympathy, allowing you to connect emotionally with the person, making them feel understood and less alone in their struggles.
6. N
   Nurture hopeNurturing hope is about instilling optimism and a positive outlook in the person. It involves reminding them of their inner strength, resilience, and the potential for a better future. Offering words of encouragement and highlighting possibilities helps build a hopeful mindset, crucial for the healing journey.

We were created intricately by God, and our emotions are like precious pearls which a fragile mind or heart, whatever you call it, keeps within their safe spaces.

When those safes are broken, leaking all negative emotions, things go haywire.

At that moment, someone has to intervene along the path to gather those broken pieces and take them through the Golden Repair process on an emergency basis.

Will I be the one, a kintsugi specialist?