One Time, One Meeting

I am cautious when it comes to dragging a foreign word or phrase into my writing or speech. The uncertainties of translation, literally and culturally, are obvious. 

Yes, cautious, with the understanding I eased--tugged--students for 3 decades through translations of The Odyssey and Candide and stories by Chekov. Unrepentantly. But save that history for another time.

Today, the phrase at hand is Japanese, ichi-go ichi-e. Translated as "one time, one meeting", the concept as I understand it calls for an awareness of the precious moment, one embedded in a chance encounter or unexpected unfolding. 

Through the front windows, I can see a healthy bunch of Mexican petunias flowering on the left and late summer knockout roses blooming on the right. Just a moment ago a hummingbird swooped in to sample the petunias' purple flowers. 

I have watched the scene play out many times this summer. The first time this year I duly noted the fly-in in conversations with family and friends. But, here's the question, did I just watch the moment between flower and hummingbird for the last time? Today? This season? In my life?

Of course, the basic action is one I have witnessed--you too, perhaps--dozens and dozens of times, but each time is that one time, maybe a last time. 

By way of examples, sunrises and sunsets or trees in full autumnal show or snow capped mountains are easily imagined. Pause, for a moment, and bring to mind the same notion when with another person. One time, one meeting.

To be present for another as if a singular encounter is to--well, is to cherish the moment. Such a way of being, of sharing really, must heighten the interaction. 

Laughing, crying, schmoozing, sitting quietly. Even the mundane, a discussion of a bill to be paid, whether children have finished homework, whose turn to let out the dog, the moment may be a last and so lasting in our memory. 

Think, an embracing, an honoring, a savoring of our moments with one another. Especially children. Always.

I am not sure I've quite captured the essence of this practice, but "one time, one meeting" for me resonates. I'll try to hold the thought.