The Pink Prelude
As we begin to feel a shift in the air and the lengthening days, a spectacle is unfolding in pockets across the globe: the blooming of cherry blossoms. These eye-catching pink and white flowers are more than just a beautiful sight, though: They are a herald of spring, a symbol of renewal, and a reminder of the fleeting beauty of life.
The tradition of hanami, or flower viewing, has roots in Japanese culture dating back to the Nara Period (710-794 AD). Initially, it was a practice reserved for the elite, but by the Edo Period (1603-1868), it had become a widespread custom, with people from all walks of life gathering under the blossoming trees for picnics and celebrations. Picture the scene: families spreading out blankets, picnicking together, and enjoying the ephemeral beauty of the sakura (cherry blossoms). This act was not merely about admiring flowers; it was about appreciating the transient nature of life and finding joy in the present moment.
The significance of cherry blossoms extends beyond their aesthetic appeal. In Japanese culture, they symbolize the beauty and fragility of life, reflecting the Buddhist concept of mono no aware, a phrase that means "the pathos of things" or "a sensitivity of things." The blossoms' short lifespan, often lasting only a week or two, underscores this message. They offer us a gentle reminder to cherish each moment and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
Historically, the journey to see cherry blossoms has often been a significant event, with people traveling long distances -- often on foot or by carriage -- to witness the blooming. Even today in places like Washington DC, where the cherry trees were a gift from Japan in 1912, thousands flock to the Tidal Basin each spring, continuing this tradition of collective admiration.
Here in Oregon, we are blessed with many places to see these blossoms -- most notably along the Portland waterfront where the cherry trees are already creating a stunning display. These trees were planted in the late 1980s and early 1990s in Tom McCall Waterfront Park to provide space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the spring season.
As we witness the cherry blossoms bloom and fade, let’s remember the cycle of life and the promise of renewal. Just as the blossoms emerge from the bare branches, so, too, does new life spring forth after periods of dormancy. In Ecclesiastes 3:11, we are told, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." The cherry blossoms, in their fleeting beauty, remind us of God's artistry and the perfect timing of His creation. May we, like these blossoms, bring beauty and joy to those around us, reflecting the beauty of the One who created all things.