In Asian American Women: The "Frontiers" Reader, author Debbie Storrs states:
"The Japanese phrase shikata ga nai, or "it can't be helped," indicates cultural norms over which one has little control... This notion of suffering in part stems from shikata ga nai: failing to follow cultural norms and social conventions led to a life of little choice but endurance of suffering."
Shikata means instructional ways (how to do). In that sense, “there is no way to fix it” might be a close expression when Shikataga nai is spoken.
This paints the picture of Japanese being rather passive and quietly putting up with life challenges. Some may say that it is grit, patience or tenacity. To me, it is more than that. This is not necessarily giving up any hope but deciding to stick to it and getting it done because there is beauty and strength in doing faithful work when things are tough. It should not matter with doing a good work whether it is easy or hard. I found myself having that attitude to get through hard seasons. And I am so grateful for the culture that has built that in me, and I am so thankful for the faithful Father who provides strength, courage and patience.
“Give Thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His Love endures forever.” I Chronicles 16:34
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