“If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.” – Dolly Parton

As with many Japanese words, there is no direct translation in English. It is a concept or practice of being compassionate and taking thoughtful actions with genuine altruism.

One of my earliest memories of omoiyari was something that my mother and father did for each other every morning, and they still do to this day. Whoever is the first to wake up in the morning will start by placing toothpaste on each other’s toothbrush and having a face towel neatly folded on its side. That simple act of kindness and compassion is such a wonderful way to welcome the other person to a new day.

Another form of omoiyari that you can practice with close friends and family is a simple gesture when you notice that they might be feeling a bit down or stressed. Think about a time when you saw them smile and enjoy themselves. Is there something that you could do to help replicate that feeling? Maybe it was a warm cup of their favorite coffee or a hilarious moment in their favorite movie. A simple gesture, such as bringing them that special cup of coffee or sending a text message with a meme from that movie and an invitation to see it again, can go a long way in brightening the other person’s day.

Take the time to walk in someone else’s shoes. Are there things that you could do to make another person’s day brighter? It doesn’t have to be a significant gesture or take much time out of your daily routine. From opening the door for someone who obviously has their hands full or cleaning after your toddler at a restaurant to help the busser keep the area clean for the next guest, practicing these simple actions will create memorable moments of gratitude, comfort, and happiness for others as well as yourself.

Dawn light through the drapes,
toothbrush waits with paste and towel —
love softly awakes.