Summary | Ichigo Ichie (2019)

Ichigo Ichie (2019)

What is it about?  The book explains the Japanese  Ichigo Ichie （一期一会）, which is translated as "once in a lifetime." The phrase comes from the Japanese tea ceremony meaning "whatever we are experiencing right now will never happen again. Therefore, we must value each moment like a beautiful treasure. "

Why bother? The concepts like "be present" and "value each moment in life" are not new, but this book brings a unique perspective from Japanese culture. The recommendation to read the book post this summary is 3.5.  

Key Ideas The book talked about several ideas:

• Every moment was never repeated. The universe is constantly changing, and so are we. Therefore, nothing will ever happen again in the same way. 
• Enjoy every moment of life. (Story) The book tells a custom in a Spain monastery. Whenever the monks run into each other, they say, "Brother, remember that one day you are going to die." This custom is not causing sadness and worry but inspires them to enjoy every moment of their lives. 
• Live fully in the present. This requires we discover our talent, open ourselves up to it and make it a priority in our lives. 
• We can make a new start in life, regardless of age. (Story) The story of Melchora Aquino De Ramos tells the Filipino revolutionary to make her significant contribution at the age of 84. The British-born Harry Bernstein published his novel The Invisible Wall at 93. 
• Recognize emotions and their relationship with the time: anger (past), sorrow (past), fear (future), happiness (present) 
• Eight Zen sessions for an Ichigo Ichie Life: (1) Just sit and see what happens. (2)Savor this moment as if it were your last breath. (3) Avoid distractions. (4) Free yourself from everything that isn't essential. (5) Be your own friend. (6) Celebrate imperfection. (7) Practice compassion. (8) Let go of your expectations.

Favorite Quotes

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"Treat your host as if the meeting were going to occur only once in your life." - Tea Master Yamanoue Soji (1588) 

"Though we never know the final consequences of our actions and decisions, every moment holds an essential value." - 

"Someday, we will all die Snoopy!" 
"True, but on all the other days, we will not."