Tied to the Buddhist themes of mortality, mindfulness and living in the present, Japanese cherry blossoms are a timeless metaphor for human existence. Blooming season is powerful, glorious and intoxicating, but tragically short-lived — a visual reminder that our lives, too, are fleeting.
Why don’t we marvel at our own passing time on earth with the same joy and passion? Why do we neglect to revel in life when it can end at any moment, or in the grace surrounding us everywhere: our family, friends, a stranger’s smile, a child’s laugh, new flavours on our plate or the scent of green grass? It is time, cherry blossoms remind us, to pay attention.
Taken from: http://notwithoutmypassport.com/cherry-blossom-meaning-in-japan/
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| Cherry blossoms on my tree this morning.
There is nothing more transient and fragile than the bloom on our cherry tree. I remember when we planted it 20 years ago and how the deer stripped its bark so it almost died; no doubt savoring its sweet flavor. But it has grown tall -30 feet or more - and is now sturdy and wide. Yet its blossoms are quiet and fleeting like the snow fall this winter. I looked up this morning and realized it was in full bloom without any awareness when that had occurred. There was bright cardinal flew up to sit in its branches. I savor that image knowing that no matter what oppresses me, beauty and particularly the gifts of nature, can quickly elevate me. That is no minor thing and something to be cherished. The cherry blossoms will not last more than a few days. I'm happy to have noticed them when I did.
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How many, many things
They call to mind --
These cherry blossoms!
BASHO
A world of grief and pain
Flowers bloom
Even then
Flowers bloom
Even then
ISSA
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