Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms, or Sakura, are special to the Japanese. The traditional Japanese values of purity and simplicity are thought to be reflected by the cherry blossoms. In the artistic sense cherry blossoms are a symbol of momentary beauty; they last briefly from about a week to ten days and then scatter. In other words, cherry blossoms reveal that the best times are short and we should all enjoy them while they last! Also, the cherry blossoms are symbols of a bright future!

There are at least 2 kinds of sakura – “Someiyoshino” which are the white ones and “Shidarezakura” the light pink ones.

To the Japanese, the blooming of the cherry blossoms signals the end of the long winter, and the arrival of spring. Around the time that cherry blossoms come into full bloom, picnic style drinking parties are held under the trees to view the flowers. This customs is known as “hanami”( hana = flower, mi = look).

Just as cherry blossoms are special to the Japanese, they are equally special to us. Perhaps someday we could all make a trip to Japan to view this beautiful gift of nature. What say you?