Cherry Blossom Time

Manawatu Times, Volume 65, Issue 237, 7 October 1940, Page 6

Cherry Blossom Time

The observation of “Cherry Blossom Time” in Palmerston North is of such stuff as makes lor the romance of travel abroad. Last week appeared an official City Council notification in the press: “The cherry blossoms at the Esplanade will be in full bloom from to-morrow (Sunday), October 6 to 13 (inclusive) * And this was followed by notice of special cheap bus fares to view the glory of the blossoms that announce spring is here in full beauty. Yesterday saw a pilgrimage, literally of thousands of citizens, not only from the city but from the countryside about and even from distant centres to do homage to Nature’s display. Amid the ruthlessness of a warring world there is here something to restore one’s faith in mankind. Certainly in almost everyone is some degree of “Jekyll and Hyde” characteristics. Nationally, this is so, too. A certain Mr. Hitler is devoted to the great operas of Wagner. The people of all classes in that so fcjpa-rtanly militaristic nation, Japan, arc worshippers almost to a man of natural beauty, and of none more so than Cherry Blossom Time. Thus is shown that there is in all something of good. From these blossoms, too, may be learned appreciation of the rhythm of Nature continuing ever undiverted by the doings of man. Finally, may we of to-day sense appreciation of the foresight of those councillors of a good many years ago who saw in the mind’s eye the glory that would be. This, coupled with the name of the city’s curator of reserves. In our cherry blossoms is something in which citizens may feel justifiable, unselfish pride.