What Forest Gump Should Have Said: Life is Like a Cherry Blossom

Sakura, the cherry blossom, the elemental symbol of the ephemeral nature of existence... With the appearance of these flowers, the routine of all Japan comes to a halt. In every neighborhood and park one will find the Japanese sitting under these trees...eating and drinking throughout the day and late into the evening...There are lanterns strung in the branches ...and at night the blossoms glow as they reflect the light. Salary men, in their black suits and ties, and office ladies, in their skirts, enjoy picnics on blue plastic mats. The elderly, from nursing homes, are wheeled out to lunch under the cherry trees. Families and couples gather in large and small groups, to laugh and talk...As the days progress, the flowers begin to fall like snow. Children scoop up piles of the fallen petals and chase each other through the park, throwing handfuls into the air. When the wind catches the flowers, there is a snowstorm of Sakura...better than a New York City confetti parade. As I watch the petals blow high into the air, I think these pink blooms must travel round the world, to land who knows where.

Yes, life is like a cherry blossom. One day we're young and beautiful and strong. The next day we look in the mirror and say...where did that person go? Take heed and savor whatever the season of your life. Forest Gump would have appreciated the cherry blossom.