Sakura

The Japanese Cherry Blossom, an enduring metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life - extreme beauty and quick death... an aspect of Japanese cultural tradition that is often associated with Buddhist influence.

I know, I know... the above caption is a bit gloom, especially in consideration of the recent situation in Japan. I must admit that I expected something more cheery when I searched to find out the symbolism for the Sakura. However, there is beauty in contemplating life and death... the conversations in our heads and within our souls... the decisions to be better people and to live better lives... yes, there is good and beauty in all of that!