expression
half a loaf is better than none; even a dead tree adds to the interest of a mountain
Proverb meaning that even something of little value can contribute to a whole; often used to encourage participation or to appreciate any contribution.
私の作品は下手だけど、枯れ木も山の賑わいということで展示会に出します。
My work isn't great, but as they say, even a dead tree adds to the interest of a mountain, so I'll put it in the exhibition.
人数が少ないけど、枯れ木も山の賑わいだから、来てくれるだけで嬉しい。
There aren't many people, but as the proverb goes, half a loaf is better than none, so I'm happy just that you came.
A traditional Japanese proverb. The literal meaning is that even a dead tree contributes to the liveliness of a mountain, figuratively meaning that any addition, however small or poor, is better than nothing.