春風の
花を散らすと
見る夢は
さめても胸の
騒ぐなりけり
-- 西行
the Spring wind
scattering blossoms
I saw it in a dream
but when I awoke the sound
was still rustling in my breast
-- Saigyō, translator unknown
ねがはくは
花の下にて
春死なむ
そのきさらぎの
もち月のころ
-- 西行
Let me die in spring
under the blossoming trees,
let it be around
that full moon
of Kisaragi month
-- Saigyō, translator Burton Watson
Welcome to my salon pour une. Enjoy the cherry blossoms.
RIP, Jack. You will be missed. I hope your legacy is one of love, hope, and optimism.
(Incidentally, this has made clear to me why I believe charisma is so important in a politician; it’s the ability to engage, to inspire, to unite. If anyone is looking for a political role model, it should be Jack Layton: a man who knew how to play the game, but looked damn good doing it.)