One of the most impressive phenomena in Japan is the season of cherry blossom. The newspapers cover its progression across the country on the front page and the tv news shows a sort of weather map which actually tracks the appearance of the blossom from the south of the country to the north. Families gather for picnics under the trees and millions of people go out to take photos.
I was told that it is, at least in part, the transience of the blossom which makes the phenomenon so important and beautiful.
Here in France we have the mimosa blossom. It’s just as spectacular and lasts only three or four weeks. Having lived here for seven years it’s something I’m now very aware of, and look out for.
Isn’t it beautiful?
I’d never seen a mimosa tree before I came to France but already I feel this annual blossom enhances my life. I enjoy the beauty of it and it inspires me to reflect on the glory of seasonal change, and how transience, even our own transience, can heighten and deepen the intensity of each moment.
Seize the day! Or, as I prefer, Relish the day!
Heroes Not Zombies 
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