The morning sun glitters over the yew tree

Friday, March 27, 2026

Having endured the harsh winter, the yew tree continues to stand tall and green amidst the snow-covered plains.

The moment the golden morning sun spilled through the gaps in the quiet branches and leaves, the entire area was enveloped in a warm light, as if illuminated by the "light of spring."

The Japanese yew, which is also the town tree of Hokuryu, has been revered since ancient times as a "tree that holds a sacred spirit"!

Yew wood is the material used to make the "shaku" (scepter) that the Emperor holds during his enthronement ceremony, and in fantasy worlds, it is also depicted as a "magic wand" that draws out mystical powers.

Its noble presence is like a guardian deity watching over our town, and it awakens the life slumbering in the frozen earth. It is the very essence of "powerful life energy" that reaches deep into our minds and bodies.

Take a big, slow, deep breath in front of this light!

The breathing of the trees and the heat of the sun...
When you immerse yourself in that power, you'll feel a strange surge of courage for tomorrow.

"Today, we'll take another step forward with renewed energy!!!"

With boundless love, gratitude, and prayer, we offer our deepest condolences to the sacred light emanating from the yew tree, which gently yet powerfully illuminates the path toward a new season.

◇ noboru & ikuko