When I first saw my child emerge into the world with a loud cry in the delivery room, I was overwhelmed by the wonder of new life and a deep gratitude for my wife who endured the pains of childbirth. It was then that the idea of the 'Circle of Life' suddenly came to mind. Yes, that song from The Lion King.
It wasn't the melody playing in my head, but rather the title, evoking the cycle of life. Amidst listening to the nurses giving us various instructions, thoughts about the song slipped away.
Looking back now, I realize that it was in that moment I tangibly felt that I am also a part of the grand nature. Although we live in a civilized world, I couldn't help but sense the inevitable natural order of the planet we inhabit.
Meeting this new life with my wife instantly made me aware that my parents must have experienced the same through me long ago, as did my wife's parents. And our newborn, too, would one day meet new life, much like us. It only dawned on me later that this passing thought had crossed my mind. Perhaps when this emotional connection at the birth of new life becomes an ongoing sensation throughout time, it marks the beginning point of this life cycle, which led me to recall the song's title.
Reflecting on The Lion King, we see how the baby lion Simba, born under his father, King Mufasa, eventually grows up after many adventures to take over the throne and starts his own family. Though the individual changes from Mufasa to Simba, the narrative of the adult lion becoming king remains steadfast.
What is it, within the law of nature's cycle of life, that must endure unchangingly between my parents, myself, and my child? Depending on how we define this timeless thread, perhaps we can uncover our unique family lifestyle or educational philosophy.
Just as the Olympic Games change locations every four years but maintain their spirit, I envision our family's spirit enduring unwaveringly, no matter when or where we live.