Daruma

thingiverse

The daruma doll stands as a powerful motivator, a constant reminder of our aspirations and the drive needed to achieve them. It serves not just as an amulet but as a representation of our goals, urging us forward even when challenges arise. Typically, in Japan, people gift daruma dolls to others on significant occasions such as birthdays or the start of new projects, symbolizing their hope that these individuals will successfully reach their objectives. However, there's no limit to gifting daruma dolls at any time because we're always pursuing goals and aspirations that we wish to achieve. Once a goal is chosen, one eye of the daruma doll should be painted, and relentless effort must be made to attain it. Upon achieving success, the other eye should be filled as a token of gratitude for the perseverance required. It's said that Monk Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, did not gain enlightenment until after 9 years of solitary meditation in a cave. Despite his prolonged stillness, legend has it that both his arms and legs fell off due to atrophy, and he even ripped out his eyelids to concentrate more effectively and avoid falling asleep. Considering these stories, it's clear why daruma dolls have their distinctive shape. However, it's also worth noting that the entire design of the doll, from its form to its color scheme and features like the white eye sockets and beautiful face, holds significant symbolism. Another distinctive feature of daruma dolls is facial hair. The eyebrows are shaped like cranes while the cheeks resemble a turtle shell. Both these animals symbolize longevity in Japan, making the doll's design a representation of achieving one's goal and living a long life.