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John Jackson's avatar

Doug awoke and sat up in bed to rub his eyes. Had last night really happened? Had he gone out on a date with someone after vowing for years since Jan died that he would remain single and alone forever?

But he had. And Sally was delightful. They laughed, held hands, and even hugged at the end of the night. Doug stood and walked to the kitchen to make coffee. His steps felt lighter than they had and a sense of warmth filled his chest. He wondered if Jan would approve.

He looked out the window and saw the cherry blossoms in full bloom. He and Jan had planted that tree a few years before she got sick. Before the loss. The tree hadn't bloomed in years, since she passed, but the bright pink flowers - her favorite - signaled her blessing.

Doug took his phone and texted Sally. "Thanks for a great time. Any plans today? Care to meet up?"

He hoped she would say yes.

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ChristineAhhh Castigliano's avatar

Thank you, Evelyn! I'm doing haiku for a morning practice these days. 🌸 Cherry blossoms are the most famous inspiration for this art form in Japan, so here goes:

Oh! Flurry of pink!

I lay below, receiving,

Cherry blooms me up.

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