Oubaitori

I look at everyone else around me, and feel reassured

When life seems to be on the upswing, I feel secure

Knowing that my blessings exceed those of most people around me

In a competitive world, I feel like I’ve scored a temporary victory

When life’s trajectory is less than smooth

Comparison with others does not let me soothe

My frayed emotions, even worse does life appear

When I compare it with everyone else within my sphere..

I tell myself repeatedly not to fall in the comparison trap

It would do me no good, my joy it would sap

But all the advice I try to give myself seems useless

I continue to compare myself with others nevertheless…

*

Trust the Japanese to teach us philosophical principles sound

They are simple to grasp, yet hold truths profound

One such concept is that of “Oubaitori” that states

That each flower blooms on its own schedule, follows its own fate

Just like spring flowers, all of us are unique

Our individual strengths we should seek

To find within ourselves, without any thought

To whether they are comparable with others or not…

*

Since it is spring and flowers of different kinds

Are blooming, it is easier to wrap my mind

Around this concept, by drawing a comparison (ironically)

Between the lives of flowers and me!

*

Society is competitive, we are hardwired

To compete against each other, it’s a habit acquired

Since childhood, that is hard to break

But a huge toll on our well-being it does take

Here is the lesson that I must imbibe

I am unique with my distinctive vibe

Comparison with anyone else is futile

Let me save my energy for issues worthwhile