Spring has finally arrived. The other day, I was happy to see cherry blossoms in LA.

Especially for Japanese people, cherry blossoms are exceptionally special and exciting. Cherry blossoms symbolize spring and new beginnings, and the word “サクラサク” means “passing an entrance exam” in addition to cherry blossoms blooming. In addition to the beauty of cherry blossoms in appearance, another thing that attracts people to cherry blossoms is their transient nature, as they bloom all over the place in spring and fall within a few weeks.

Because of such symbolism, there are many songs and Waka poems about cherry blossoms, including many famous and popular songs. The cherry blossoms are so deeply rooted in the hearts of the Japanese people that it is said that as far back as the Yayoi period (710-794), there was a custom to worship the cherry tree as a tree inhabited by the god of grain and to begin rice cultivation when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom.

Here is a famous Waka poem about cherry blossoms.

「散ればこそ　いとど桜は　めでたけれ　浮き世になにか　久しかるべき」
*Meaning: Cherry blossoms are lovely because they fall. Is there anything that can remain unchanged forever in this sorrowful world?

Our predecessors must have realized that there are things that are beautiful or can shine because they are fleeting.

So, let us cherish every moment and bloom today!