Ichi-go ichi-e – ( 一期一会)

“Ichi-go ichi-e” – literally “one time, one meeting”, is a Japanese term that is originally associated with the Japanese tea ceremony. It describes a cultural concept of treasuring the unrepeatable nature of a moment. The term has been translated as “for this time only,” and “once in a lifetime.” The term reminds people to cherish any gathering that they may take part in, citing the fact that any moment in life cannot be repeated. 

It is also used in martial arts or day to day life. “Ichi-go ichi-e”, also translated as “one chance in a lifetime” reminds us that each meeting, whether a tea ceremony, martial arts practice or good time with friends, is unique.

The term in Budō, in a life-or-death situation, also means that there will be no chance to “try again”. Even though techniques may be attempted many times in the dojo, each should be seen as a singular and decisive event.

Take the opportunity when it presents itself. Whether this is during a self-protection situation, perhaps an opportunity to train with someone, or to learn something new. If you have an opportunity, an invitation, a chance to do something, anything, embrace it.

Remember the phrase, “what might have been”? Without an occasional leap of faith, we may amass an ever-growing list of regrets and fail to recognize, “ichi-go ichi-e”. ??