When I think of springtime in Japan, my mind gently drifts to viewing cherry blossoms. The Japanese have always expressed great appreciation of nature’s magnificence found in every season, and they have celebrations to acknowledge the beauty of life on this planet that is our home.
In Buddhism, we learn that everything in this realm is constantly changing - all phenomena are temporary. We also learn that everyone/everything is interconnected. When we truly embody these teachings, we are not so shocked when changes occur in our lives. This same understanding can also deepen our appreciation of what we have and experience. It becomes precious because we know it is transient. We also see the opportunity to bless the lives of others when we open our hearts by living with wisdom and compassion. Because we are all connected, those blessings can also be reflected back to us.
On April 8 th each year, the Dharma Center of Oklahoma celebrates the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha by giving gratitude for his teachings of enlightenment. Since this occurs during the beautiful springtime, it is also known as hana matsuri (flower festival)
When we think about the cherry trees blooming, we are struck by the wonder of it all - seeing the beauty available to us. However, for the Japanese, there is an additional meaning. Viewing the splendor is also touched with sadness, because they know that the blossoms fall at the moment of their greatest beauty. This is a perfect example of what the Japanese call hakanai. This means to understand and accept the transience of life – the ephemeral quality of our human existence.
So, this spring we are once again reminded of both sorrow and solace equally. Just as there is sadness watching the blossoms floating away through the breeze, there is also a poignant realization of how wonderful it was to have experienced life.
This gives us all pause to reflect. It makes us realize that we, too, are just like the fragile cherry blossoms – only here for a short time. Perhaps this year, we will have a new awareness to truly celebrate life, and make the most of the time we have together - seeing beauty in both the holding on and the letting go…
Rev. Kris Ladusau, Dharma Center of Oklahoma
OCC Religions United Committee
