Spring brings a lot of rain, which is a blessing from nature. I enjoy seeing wet leaves that look vibrant, green, and beautiful when it rains. This period is important in the natural cycle, as plants grow with plenty of water. Today, April 19th marks the official end of the spring season in this year's Japanese lunar calendar.
The traditional lunar calendar consists of 24 solar terms, each indicating a period associated with a natural phenomenon. From today onwards, this term is called “Kokuu (穀雨)”,' which means “grain rain” in Japanese. Rice planting has been carried out at this time of year since ancient times. It is said that spring rain moisturizes and nourishes plants on the ground, bringing about rich harvests.
In our busy modern lives, small seasonal changes are often overlooked. It's hard to notice these changes, especially in city life. However, Japanese culture, based on the 24 solar terms, teaches us to savor the seasons and find beauty and meaning in each transition. With this in mind, when I look at plants soaked in the rain, I am reminded that rain is not just water that falls from the sky but that it connects us to the cycle of nature, and we live within that cycle.
When we remember that we live in harmony with nature, we develop the ability to be grateful for the blessings of rain too. I would like to thank the rain again.
