As part of our cultural enrichment while in Japan, I signed us up for Calligraphy lessons with Naomi at Ryokan Matsumae. Naomi is an incredibly talented dancer, musician and artist and was a fantastic teacher.  We first learned that one must hold the calligraphy brush like it is a chopstick not a pencil.  We also discovered that posture and arm poise are important to creating beautiful Japanese characters but that having a "zen" mind was the most critical component.

True creativity is not the product of consciousness but rather the "phenomenon of life itself." True creation must arise the state of "no-mind," in which thought, emotions, and expectations do not matter. Truly skillful Zen calligraphy is not the product of intense "practice;" rather, it is best achieved as the product of the "no-mind" state, a high level of spirituality, and a heart free of disturbances. 

Our final work, we each chose a word to write (from left to right): Lynn - patience, Kingsley - exceptional, Dad - harmony, Mom - joy. My Dad and Kingsley showed the best natural calligraphy talent. They obviously found a way to channel their inner zen. I obviously still have a lot to learn about freeing my mind and heart from disturbances.