Knowing a Cherry Blossom Tree

On my morning walk, there is a cherry blossom tree

I say, “Hello” to it with my full presence

It pulsates love back to me

I look at it closely, relish each divine aspect

In one of many flowers I see

red-brown lines structuring its art

It begins in the quiet center

then shoots forth

framing surprising dark specks

over pure white petal canvas

Frilly edges dance in the breeze

appearing as ballerina skirts floating in a twirl

Yet these flowers maintain strength in harsh weather

I look closer to see life supported

small bees in rich honey gold and black stripes

bob up and down

their iridescent paper wings carry them

in a seeming impossible balance of weight and flight

Bees tell a story with a “never give up” theme

They know anything is possible if they can fly

They take their nectar in a natural living cycle

that I too am a part of

I reach out my hand and rest a reverent finger on a petal

I feel how firm it is, yet supple, flexible

I am awed by nature’s beautiful strength

I know so much by stopping to see a cherry blossom tree

If only we could always stop and see God’a nature

By Michele Angelica