So, I have been studying Japanese proverbs lately, thanks in large part to one very useful compendium by David Galef called simply, Japanese Proverbs.

Anyway, I thought it would be an interesting addition to my festival reporting this year throwing in a little “wit and wisdom” from some age-old Japanese “kotowaza” proverbs. Not only do proverbs convey universal morals often times with Zen undercurrents, they also speak volumes about a culture as a whole. For it is at the intersecting crossroads of language and custom where proverbs are born, and those that live on and stand the test of time begin to shape the beliefs, hopes, sarcasm and spirit of generations to come.

A good one for today, with the weather as it stands might then be, “Todai moto kurashi,” which translates roughly to the darkness at the base of the lighthouse, or in other words, “sometimes you can’t see the forest for the trees.”

On a dreary day like today, rather than dwelling on the dampness underfoot and the drizzle on your raincoat, remember that the lush green mountain setting you find your festival self in, is a direct result of that necessary precipitation. That in fact, the trees tired roots are quenched having a drink, laughing heartily, and the next sunny day they are that much greener and full for having been fed this sprinkling blessing.

Remember Fuji Rock’s three core tenets of ‘Independence’, ‘Cooperation’ and ‘Respect of nature.’ These are the keys to fully enjoy this festival.

So put on your rain gear, slip into your rubber boots and let’s do it together! Bon odori dance starts at the Naeba Shokudo, rain or shine, in just a few…