flowering glory in nation’s Capitol
What a Glorious Sight To See Cherry Trees in Bloom in Washington, DC
Every spring around the end of March, our nation’s Capitol grounds transform. Over 3700 flowering cherry trees burst forth with thousands of pink petals. The cotton candy spectacle delights anyone fortunate to be there in person.
The trees are a gift from Japan. They commemorate the enduring friendship between our two countries. Despite being bitter enemies in the past, we embrace peace and forgiveness today. Stroll the National Mall and Potomac Park to witness their short-lived splendor. They only bloom for two weeks before the petals fall.
When I visited my brother, who lived nearby in Maryland, I felt we were walking in an enchanted fairyland. The Tidal Basin trees were proclaiming the renewal of life. Overwhelmed by their grandeur, under a clear blue sky reflected in the calm water, I had to pause and sit on a bench. The iconic granite monuments paled in comparison.
The cherry blossom is the national flower of Japan. Cherry blossoms represent both birth and death, beauty and violence. The Japanese worship of nature focuses on this particular blossom. It has historically signified the short but colorful life of the samurai.
Fallen cherry blossom flowers are a symbol of past warriors who have died in battle.
The cherry blossom reminds us to appreciate the beauty of life.
Instead of responding to negative situations, appreciate the beauty of your present existence.
The reappearance of the cherry blossom every spring shows us that death is the beginning of a new life.
It tells us that in reality, nobody dies; we simply go from one reality to another.
We should live like the cherry blossom tree. It has a short life span but never stops blooming with strength and vigor.
The cherry blossom also represents the female spirit. Women have a natural nurturing tendency and are resilient during hard times. Consider how they bounce back from the pain of childbirth. They radiate absolute joy when embracing their newborn baby.
Enjoy your life while it lasts is the message they give.
I hope you get the opportunity to experience the cherry blossom festival yourself. It will be a memory you will treasure forever.
This post was written in response to a nature prompt about flowering trees from Dr. Preeti Singh.
Please read the following articles that attracted my eye and illustrate the many facets to be found in Nature which we can learn from.
Dr. Preeti Singh had a challenging trip on rough water that ended with joy and thanksgiving.
William J Spirdione writes a beautiful sonnet about the effect on bees as autumn approaches.
Caroline Mellor writes a poignant story about a woman walking the streets of an ancient city, reflecting on her life. This is a read you shouldn’t miss.
