My Happy Marriage: Reflections on Letting Go

I don’t watch much TV these days, but I recently started watching a sweet anime called My Happy Marriage. I just watched Episode 7, “Glamorous Lady of Summer,” and there was a poignant moment when the main characters visit the trunk of a cherry tree that the heroine, Miyo’s, mother had planted. Kiyoka, her intended, had burned down Miyo’s abusive family’s home after they kidnapped her, leaving everything charred. Miyo visits the tree trunk because she feels her mother calling her there, and when she touches it, a shock goes through her body, causing the trunk to crumble.

The trunk was one of the few connections she had to her mother. It’s clear that Miyo’s mother was calling her back to say goodbye and to help her let go of the past that had been holding her back.

This scene resonates with my own life right now. I’ve been rigorously examining my beliefs over the past few years, and now I’m scrutinizing my relationships to determine what to let go of and what to keep. To be honest, there aren’t many relationships in my life right now that contribute to my growth.

I’ve been contemplating the concept of non-attachment, inspired by the Jedi in Star Wars and their vows. While I don’t agree with the idea in its entirety, I’ve come to understand that attachment isn’t inherently bad when it’s balanced. However, when attachment becomes so strong that it inhibits your growth and your soul’s or the universe’s calling, it becomes problematic.

Deep internal reflection has given me the space to mentally step back and evaluate my life, beliefs, and behaviors. It’s comforting to cling to things, but we often do so out of fear. I’m on a mission to conquer my fears.

It’s amazing how a short and simple scene can trigger such deep and profound thoughts and feelings.