Today · Clear and Bright
Word of the day
さやけし
sayakeshi
clear, bright, and fresh (Old Japanese)
“Over the sea, the setting sun lights the great banner clouds. Tonight, may the moon be clear and bright.”
— Emperor Tenji, Man'yōshū, Book 1
わたつみの豊旗雲に入日さし今夜の月夜さやけかりこそ
Watatsumi no / toyohatagumo ni / irihi sashi / koyoi no tsukuyo / sayakekari koso
Background
The Man'yōshū, compiled in the 8th century, is the oldest surviving anthology of Japanese poetry. Sayakeshi, an Old Japanese word for a clear, bright freshness, gives this project its name.
The poet pictures a night that has not yet come as clear and bright. However today goes, a clear moon may be waiting at the end of it. Just imagining that can loosen your shoulders a little.
Today's pause
Look at the sky, or out of a window, for ten seconds.
Before sleep
Was there a moment today that felt clear?