The story of Kaito, a humble Japanese samurai, immerses us in an ancient and serene era of Japan. Together with his wife Misaki and his daughter Hana, Kaito cultivates not only the fertile land but also family bonds. A silver-plated bronze mirror, a gift from Kaito to Misaki, becomes an eternal symbol of love and family connection, reflecting not only images but deep emotions.
Importance of Ancient Objects in Japanese Culture
In an ancient and serene era of Japan, a humble samurai named Kaito shared his life with his loving wife, Misaki and his beloved daughter, Hana. Although Kaito carried the sword and armor of a warrior, his wealth lay not in coins but in the fertile land he cultivated and the family bonds he nurtured.
Misaki, on the other hand, was the epitome of grace. With her shy and reserved nature, she always sought to keep a low profile, disappearing like a drop of water in a vast lake when among strangers.
An unexpected twist of fate saw Japan crown a new emperor. As a samurai, Kaito had to travel to the majestic capital to pay tribute to the newly crowned leader. Though duty called him strongly, Kaito’s heart longed to return to the warm embrace of his home.
Upon his return, Kaito, wishing to share the wonders of the capital with his family, presented Hana with a delicately carved doll and Misaki with an object that reflected mysteries and marvels: a silver-plated bronze mirror.
In those times, these mirrors were polished metal pieces with a flawless shine, very different from the glass ones of the modern era.
Misaki, seeing her reflection for the first time, innocently asked, “Kaito, who is that woman watching me from the other side?” Kaito’s loving laughter filled the room. “That, my love, is you.”
Though a bit embarrassed, Misaki understood that this mirror had the power to show her reflection. However, to her, this object was much more: it was a symbol of Kaito’s eternal love. Reverently, she kept it as if it were a treasure.
Over time, Misaki’s health, fragile like sakura petals, began to fade. Feeling that her days were numbered, she gave the mirror to Hana and whispered, “When sadness clouds your days, look into this mirror. In it, I will always be with you.” Shortly after, Misaki embarked on her final journey.
Hana’s tears fell day after day, but she found comfort in looking at the mirror. She believed she saw her mother, smiling and rejuvenated, returning a gaze full of love. One afternoon, as she murmured words of affection to the image, Kaito watched her with a mix of sadness and wonder. When he asked what she was doing, Hana replied:
“I am with Mom. Look at her, so radiant and happy.”
With a lump in his throat, Kaito approached and hugged her. “Just as you find your mother in that mirror,” he whispered, “I find her in you.”
