The Japanese art of Kintsukuroi is repairing broken pottery with gold or silver lacquer, and recognising that only through being damaged could the piece have been improved.

When we connect with those who have experienced extraordinary suffering, we can truly learn the value of pain, love and hope – and we find that these are common human experiences. Imagine how much more beautiful and rich the world would appear if we found happiness in life’s simple treasures, and shared stories with one another free of judgement; our part of the world could become the most beautiful, authentic Kintsukuroi artform to ever exist.

Maddie Kelly is the Social Justice Coordinator at St Aloysius College, working with students who are committed to making a difference in our community. She is passionate about communication and strives to tell human stories in a way that empowers and motivates others to take action against injustice.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx