The change of seasons is a reminder that nothing in life remains stagnant; everything changes. One of the most striking signs of this change is the sight of a parted leaf. It’s when one of the leaflets breaks away from the mother branch, and the decaying process starts. It’s a remarkable transformation, but one that reminds us of the fragility and beauty of life.
As leaves fall to the ground, autumn is an invitation to reflect on the cycle of life and death. For as much as we encounter the colorful and brilliant beauty of the season, there is also an underlying sense of decay that lingers in the air. But decay can be beautiful. The leaves that fall to the ground create the perfect landscape, making the earth look like a canvas painted in fiery hues.
The beauty of the parted leaf is that it brings us closer to nature’s cycle of birth, growth, and decay. It’s a reminder that when we accept change and the inevitability of death, it opens us up to experience life more fully. It challenges us to live in the present moment and enjoy all the beauty that surrounds us now.
In Japan, parted leaves are called “Kareno”. The word ‘Kare’ means ‘withered,’ and ‘No’ means ‘field’. The name aptly describes the feeling that the sight of a parted leaf evokes. It is a moment that encapsulates a sense of transience, ethereal beauty, and acceptance of life’s impermanence.
In conclusion, the sight of a parted leaf is a stunning sign of the changing season. It is a reminder that everything in life is transient, and it’s beautiful because of it. It’s a mirror held up to the fragility of life and an inspiration to live in the present moment, to cherish the beauty of nature, and to embrace the inevitability of change.