I'd never been to a tulip field before, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, beyond the obvious; tulips and crowds of people. Although the only one I've attended, I can't imagine it gets much better than Oregon's Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. It draws visitors from around the world who are visiting Oregon in Spring, featuring endless rows of colorful tulips, surrounded by beautiful scenery. I didn't arrive at the ideal time, but made due with what remained on display. What I didn't quite expect was such an incredible variety of colors and designs, and left with a profound appreciation for this glorious creation. It was an enchanting time of immersion, losing myself in their beauty, and overflowing with gratitude for the experience. I also didn't expect to leave with 352 clicks, quads that remained sore for several days after, and a sunburn on the spot where my hair used to be!
Oh how I love these magnificent creations. Cherry Blossoms, bringing so much joy to so many. Although, it's a fleeting joy that fades away all too quickly, and I have found a way to experience this joy with or without these brilliant blossoms. The source of my love for these wonderful gifts from mother nature comes from sheer reverence, awe, wonder, and appreciation for the intelligence which orchestrates and allows for such beautiful creations. The same intelligence that allows for us beautiful human creations, allows us to breathe oxygen, circulate blood, and have conscious thoughts and experiences. Best summarized as God. In connecting with their beauty, I am connecting with God. Just as when connecting with a brilliant sunset, or the soul of another human being. For it is in all of us, in all things, and will remain my source of joy regardless of the weather or the seasons. This beautiful and massive Cherry Blossom was found while on a bike ride through my hometown at the time, Salem, Oregon.