There is an ancient Japanese art form called kintsugi, in which broken pottery is reconstructed – and in contrast to typical repair work, the goal of the reconstruction is not to hide the broken places but to emphasize them. In kintsugi, the seams connecting the broken pieces are filled with gold, creating a beautiful piece of art that highlights the history of the object.

The object is broken but it is not deemed less valuable.

The object’s brokenness is not hidden but displayed.

The broken places increase the beauty and interest of the object.

It is the same piece of pottery, but it tells a story: I fell apart and was put back together. The process of restoration from brokenness changed me so that I now experience wholeness in a different way.

The death of an important person can leave us feeling deeply broken. We may wonder how we will ever find healing after suffering a significant loss. Blue Ridge Hospice grief support counselors may be able to help you on your journey toward reconstruction and re-imagining wholeness. You can reach Grief and Loss Support Services at 540-313-9214 or griefsupport@blueridgehospice.org.