Which Daruma Eye to Color: A Complete Guide for Americans

You've seen them, the round, red dolls with blank white eyes. They're Daruma dolls, a traditional Japanese good luck charm, and they're becoming increasingly popular in the United States. But what do you do when you get one? The most iconic step is coloring in the eyes, but the question often arises: Which Daruma eye to color first? This article will dive deep into the symbolism and practice behind coloring your Daruma's eyes, offering a clear and detailed explanation for the average American reader.

Understanding the Daruma Doll: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Before we get to the eyes, let's briefly understand what a Daruma doll represents. Originating from the teachings of Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, the Daruma doll symbolizes perseverance, good fortune, and goal setting. Its round shape, designed to always return upright when pushed, embodies the spirit of never giving up.

The Significance of the Eyes: Marking Your Goals

The blank eyes of a Daruma doll are not an oversight; they are intentional. They represent the unfulfilled goals or aspirations you have. The act of coloring in an eye is a commitment to a specific objective. It's a visual reminder that you've embarked on a journey to achieve something important.

So, Which Eye Do You Color First? The Answer is… Your Choice!

This is where many people get confused. The most common and widely accepted practice is to color in the left eye first.

Why the left eye? While there isn't a single, universally mandated rule, the tradition leans towards the left for a few reasons:

Cultural Convention: In many East Asian cultures, including Japan, the left side is often associated with the future, potential, and beginnings. Coloring the left eye signifies setting your intention and looking forward to achieving your goal.
Visual Balance: Some believe that coloring the left eye first creates a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition as you progress towards your goal.
The "Action" Eye: It's seen as the "action" eye – the one that embodies the commitment and the first step taken towards your objective.

However, and this is crucial, the most important aspect is the intention behind the act. If you feel a strong connection or personal reason to color the right eye first, then by all means, do so!

"The Daruma doll is a personal tool for self-motivation. The act of coloring the eye should resonate with your own commitment."

The Process: Coloring Your Daruma's Eyes

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Choose Your Goal: Before you even pick up a marker, clearly define the goal you want your Daruma to help you achieve. Be specific! Instead of "get rich," aim for "save $5,000 by the end of the year."
Color the First Eye: With your chosen marker (often provided with the doll, or a fine-tip black marker works well), color in the first eye. As mentioned, the left eye is the traditional choice. As you color, focus on your goal and the dedication required to reach it.
Place Your Daruma: Find a prominent place in your home or office to display your Daruma. This could be on your desk, a shelf, or a mantelpiece. The key is that you see it regularly.
Work Towards Your Goal: This is where the real magic happens. Actively work towards your chosen objective. Take steps, make efforts, and persevere through challenges.
Color the Second Eye: Once you have achieved your goal, it's time to color in the second eye! This signifies the completion and success of your endeavor.
Celebrate and Re-Purpose: Once both eyes are colored, you can celebrate your accomplishment! Many people then purchase a new Daruma doll to set a new goal, or some choose to repaint their existing Daruma to start anew. Some also keep the completed Daruma as a reminder of their success.

What if I Have Multiple Goals?

If you have several important goals, you have a few options:

Multiple Daruma Dolls: The most straightforward approach is to get a separate Daruma doll for each significant goal. This allows each doll to be a dedicated reminder of a specific aspiration.
Prioritize and Rotate: You can choose your most important goal for your current Daruma. Once achieved, you can then focus on the next goal with a new doll or by repainting the old one.

It's generally recommended to focus on one primary goal per Daruma doll to maintain clarity and effectiveness. Trying to track too many aspirations with a single doll can dilute its motivational power.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if I've "achieved" my goal to color the second eye?

The definition of "achieved" is entirely up to you and the goal you set. If you're aiming for a specific financial target, reaching that number is achievement. If you're aiming to learn a new skill, completing a significant project or demonstrating proficiency would be your marker. It's about fulfilling the commitment you made when you colored the first eye.

Why is the Daruma doll usually red?

Red is a color traditionally associated with good luck, prosperity, and warding off evil in Japanese culture. It's believed that the color red can bring good fortune and protect the owner from bad luck.

Can I use a marker or pen to color the eyes?

Yes, absolutely! While Daruma dolls often come with a marker or paint, you can use any fine-tip black marker, pen, or even a small paintbrush with black paint. The important thing is to make a clear mark on the doll's eye.

What should I do with my Daruma after both eyes are colored?

Once both eyes are colored, it signifies that you have achieved your goal. You can keep the Daruma as a trophy of your success, purchase a new one to set a new goal, or some people choose to repaint their existing Daruma to start fresh with a new aspiration.

By understanding the tradition and applying it to your personal journey, your Daruma doll can become a powerful symbol of your determination and a constant reminder of your commitment to achieving your dreams.