Stark Contrast

It's amazing what can survive an earthquake and a tsunami. Spring has reached Tohoku and so has the Sakura. Right in the midst of this disaster zone, flowers are blooming. Although many trees have been snapped in half or destroyed by sea water. A few have remained and defying the gloom with their vibrant colors. On the way up, I noticed that the sakura had reached this northern area of Japan as the migrating blossoms edged northward with the warming spring. They were seen along the hillsides and around the inland areas as expected. But I was taken by surprise to see them here.  As fierce as nature can be, it also can remind us that it can be beautiful when it wants to. It's an odd moment as I usually welcome them when they come each year. When you stare at a single blossom its an intricate grouping of 5 delicate pedals. Each one slightly different, light, and airy. When you stare at tree as a whole, it's as if the branches have been engulfed by a subtle pink cloud.  This time around I can't seem to allow myself to get lost looking at them. The best expression to describe my feeling is "Stark Contrast." Seeing them this year gave me no sense of comfort. It's sad as when they arrive it's usually a time for celebration and lightheartedness.