Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on August 2013

千里の道も一歩から

Senri no michi mo ippo kara
“A thousand-mile journey begins with the first step.”

This proverb stems from the Chinese philosopher Lao Tse: the importance of slow but steady progress in a spiritual quest. But it also reflects a practical truth, that one must conquer one’s fear and take that necessary initial move.

From Japanese Proverbs: Wit and Wisdom by David Galef (2012; Tuttle; 224pp; ¥1,500), available from major bookstores and Amazon.jp.