“Like vanishing dew,
a passing apparition
or the sudden flash
of lightning — already gone —
thus should one regard one’s self.”
― Ikkyu
Cherry blossoms also symbolize the transience of life because of their beauty and quick death.
When I was young I thought
I was immortal, invincible,
My life with thrills was fraught
I was pretty indestructible..
As the sands of time shifted
The notion of transience raised its head
The veil of my ignorance slowly lifted
My prior convictions I had to shed
When the course of my life was altered
By fate, through manmade or natural disaster
Taken aback, I stumbled and faltered
Of my life, I no longer felt like the master
Learnt how fickle life could be
Snatched away in the blink of an eye
I realized my predestined mortality
And became aware, albeit with a sigh
Happiness was a transitory phase
Meant to enjoy while it did last
The years would pass in a blurry haze
Death might approach a little too fast.
I learnt to live in the moment present
Feel and savor everything it had
Since nothing in life is permanent
Living in the moment makes me glad.
Passion...unbridled 