Echoes of the Past: How Sungkyunkwan’s Legacy Shapes Modern Korea

K-drama lovers have probably watched this delightful series titled “Sungkyunkwan Scandal”.   For me, Korean dramas are both educational and entertaining. It turns out Sungkyunkwan is not fiction; it's real. It is an educational institution that still exists today, and it survives in two forms:

(1) Old Sungkyunkwan, the historic Confucian academy, founded in 1398, still stands in central Seoul as a cultural and ritual site.

(2) Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), the modern research university reorganized after 1945, is now one of South Korea’s top institutions.

Image credit:  visitSeoul.net

♦ Origins (1398–1894): Korea’s Highest Confucian Academy

Sungkyunkwan’s founding — Established in 1398 by royal decree at the start of the Joseon dynasty, it served as the nation’s supreme educational institution and training ground for government officials. 

Key features:

• Curriculum centered on the Confucian classics, literary composition, and preparation for the gwageo civil service exams. 

• The student body, originally capped at 150, later expanded to 200 in 1429. 

• Architecture followed geomantic principles: mountains behind, water in front, aligning with ideal energy flow. 

• Munmyo Shrine on campus held biannual rites honoring Confucius — a tradition still maintained today. 

Notable alumni include major Confucian scholars such as YiHwang and Yi I, whose writings shaped Korean intellectual history. 

♦ 

Transition & Turbulence (1895–1945)

During the late Joseon reforms:

• In 1895, Sungkyunkwan was reorganized into a modern three-year university, reflecting Korea’s modernization efforts. 

During Japanese colonial rule:

• It was demoted and renamed Gyeonghagwon, with Korean Confucian education suppressed. 

• Despite this, it remained a symbolic center of Korean Confucian identity.

♦ 

Modern Rebirth (1945–Present): Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

After Korea’s liberation in 1945:

• The original name Sungkyunkwan was restored.

• With nationwide Confucian support, it was reorganized into Sungkyunkwan University, now a comprehensive private research institution. 

Today SKKU:

• Operates two campuses:

  • Seoul (Humanities & Social Sciences)

  • Suwon (Natural Sciences & Engineering) 

• Has 34,000+ students and over 4,000 academic staff. 

• Maintains the motto “Humanity, Righteousness, Propriety, Wisdom.”

• Preserves the Old Sungkyunkwan buildings on its Seoul campus, integrating 600+ years of heritage with modern research. 

A major turning point came in 1996, when SKKU formed a strategic partnership with Samsung, accelerating its rise in science, engineering, and global rankings. 

⭐ Interesting Facts Across the Centuries

Confucian rites are still performed

Twice a year (May & September), SKKU hosts Seokjeon Daeje, a full Confucian ritual with traditional music and dance — one of the few surviving state rites in Korea. 

Oldest university in East Asia

SKKU traces its lineage back over 600 years, making it one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in East Asia. 

A blend of old and new

On the Seoul campus, you can walk from a 14th century Confucian lecture hall straight into a cutting edge glass library — a rare architectural juxtaposition.

Elite training ground

In the Joseon era, only the most promising scholars — often future ministers — could study here. Admission required passing the lower civil service exams. 

Modern powerhouse

SKKU consistently ranks among Korea’s top universities and is globally recognized in engineering, business, and natural sciences.

CONCLUSION:

Sungkyunkwan is real and absolutely still exists.
It survives both as a living Confucian heritage site and as Sungkyunkwan University, a major global research institution. Its story spans royal patronage, colonial suppression, postwar rebirth, and modern innovation — making it one of the most historically layered universities in the world.

***

REFERENCES/SOURCES:

Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea. “Seokjeon Daeje.” Cultural Heritage Administration, english.cha.go.kr. Accessed 9 May 2026.

Deuchler, Martina. The Confucian Transformation of Korea: A Study of Society and Ideology. Harvard University Asia Center, 1992.

Haboush, JaHyun Kim. Confucian Kingship in Korea. Columbia University Press, 2001.

Lewis, James B. “The Korean Civil Service Examinations.” Korean Studies, vol. 24, no. 2, 2000, pp. 1–30.

Palais, James B. Confucian Statecraft and Korean Institutions. University of Washington Press, 1996.

Sungkyunkwan University. “About SKKU – History.” Sungkyunkwan University www.skku.edu/eng/About/sungkyunkwan/history.do (skku.edu in Bing). Accessed 9 May 2026.

Seth, Michael J. A Concise History of Korea: From Antiquity to the Present. 3rd ed., Rowman & Littlefield, 2020.

Psychology and Mental Health: 𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓾𝓻𝓮? Let's Take a Look

"Pleasure is a broad class of mental states that humans and other conscious animals experience as positive, enjoyable, or worth seeking. It includes more specific mental states such as happiness, entertainment, enjoyment, ecstasy, and euphoria." (Wikipedia) 

I have to say that I think the Wikipedia definition is spot on. I would like to add that the list of things to do that you supplied should serve as a pick-me-up, that is … if you don't have any underlying mental or physical health problems. I know of people who say they don't experience feelings of pleasure. The problem may NOT be linked to them being dissatisfied or bored with themselves. It could be an indication of something much more serious.

If you want to know the inspiration for this post, it's the Emotion Wheel.  Image credit: Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions: What it is and How to Use It.  WOW!  Are humans complicated beings or what?

FOR CONTRAST AND COMPARISON:

Biblical definition:
In the Bible, pleasure is not inherently evil but is understood in relation to God’s will and purpose. 

True and lasting pleasure comes from delighting in God, His presence, and His ways. Psalm 16:11 says, “In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore,” pointing to a spiritual, enduring joy rooted in a relationship with God. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 2:1–11 reflects on earthly pleasures and concludes they are ultimately “meaningless” apart from God. 

The Bible also warns against sinful pleasures that draw people away from righteousness (see Hebrews 11:25; 2 Timothy 3:4). Therefore, a biblical definition of pleasure is the experience of joy or satisfaction that is either fleeting and self-centered when pursued apart from God, or deeply fulfilling and eternal when found in alignment with His will.

Secular definition:
In secular thought, pleasure is typically defined as a positive sensation or feeling of enjoyment, satisfaction, or happiness. Philosophers like Epicurus described pleasure as the absence of pain and disturbance, emphasizing mental tranquility over indulgence (Letter toMenoeceus). 

Modern psychology defines pleasure as a component of reward processing in the brain, often linked to dopamine activity (Berridge & Kringelbach, 2015, Neuron). 

The AmericanPsychological Association (APA) describes pleasure as a hedonic experience associated with positive emotions and reinforcement of behavior. In this view, pleasure is neither moral nor immoral in itself; it is a natural, biological, and psychological response that motivates behavior, ranging from basic sensory enjoyment to complex emotional fulfillment.

  
ADDITIONAL LINKS FOR RESEARCH:

“Anhedonia is a word that describes a reduced interest in activities an individual used to enjoy, as well as a decreased ability to feel pleasure. It’s a core symptom of major depressive disorder, but it can also be a symptom of other mental health disorders.”

• REF: Anhedonia: Symptoms, Treatment, and More 

“Anhedonia is a common symptom of depression and one of the so-called “negative symptoms” of schizophrenia (as opposed to “positive” ones such as delusions), but it is not present in all patients with these illnesses. It also afflicts some people with bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and Parkinson’s disease, as well as an unknown number of individuals with no other diagnosed brain disorder.”

Researchers are developing new treatments for a depression symptom called anhedonia.

• REF: Can Talk Therapy Help People Who Are Unable to Experience Joy? - Scientific American 

* “The pleasure principle is a term originally used by Sigmund Freud to characterize the tendency of people to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Freud argued that people will sometimes go to great lengths to avoid even momentary pain, particularly at times of psychological weakness or vulnerability.”

* “Modern psychologists typically do not follow traditional Freudian theory, but they often use the pleasure principle and related concepts in therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, can help people eliminate self-defeating thoughts to maximize pleasure and minimize the suffering that occurs with emotional and physical pain.”

• REF: GoodTherapy | Pleasure Principle

May 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month

Just me thinking.🤔

Fringed Mariposa Lily: A Rare Wildflower Most People Have Never Heard Of

Calochortus fimbriatus, sometimes called the Fringed Mariposa Lily, is a little‑known wildflower native to the Santa Ynez Mountains of California.🌼 

• FUN FACT:  The petals of this flower are covered in tiny, silky hairs that actually glitter in the sunlight — almost like the flower is dusted with gold.  These hairs aren’t just for show; botanists believe they help attract specific native pollinators by reflecting light in a way that makes the bloom stand out in dry, rocky habitats.  It’s one of the reasons hikers sometimes describe spotting it as “finding a jewel in the chaparral.”

• Image credit: Elliott, Jack. “Calochortus Fimbriatus, Rare Wildflower.” Jack Elliott’s Santa Barbara Adventure, 27 Jul. 2014, https://yankeebarbareno.com/2014/07/27/calochortus-fimbriatus-rare-wildflower/.

Most people have never heard of it. It’s rarely seen because it grows in limited, rugged habitats and blooms only under the right seasonal conditions. Its fringed petals and striking yellow‑and‑brown coloration make it look almost unreal.  (REF:  yankeebarbareno.com)

• Grows in the wild — not a cultivated garden flower**
• Extremely localized — found only in a small region
• Unknown to most people — overshadowed by more famous rare flowers
• Visually stunning — the kind of bloom you’d never guess exists until you see it

**On the plus side: You can grow the Fringed Mariposa Lily (Calochortus fimbriatus) in a home garden, but it’s not as straightforward as typical ornamentals. It’s a specialty bulb that needs conditions similar to its native California chaparral. If you can mimic those, it will reward you with spectacular blooms.

Gardening Advice and Tips:

🌱 It can be grown in a home garden, but only if you can provide the right climate and soil conditions.

Calochortus species are famously picky. They thrive in dry summers, mild wet winters, and fast‑draining soil. If your climate is similar to coastal or inland California, you’re in great shape. If not, you can still grow it in containers with more control.

🌼 What it needs to survive

1. Mediterranean-style climate

• Wet, cool winters
• Hot, dry summers
• No summer irrigation once bulbs go dormant
  If you live somewhere humid or rainy in summer, containers are the safer option.

2. Excellent drainage

This is non-negotiable.
Think rocky, sandy, gritty soil — the kind water runs through instantly. Heavy soil will rot the bulbs.

3. Full sun

They need bright light to bloom well.

4. Dry summer dormancy

After flowering, the plant dies back completely.
You must stop watering during this period.

5. Protection from overwatering

Most failures come from too much moisture.

🌿 Grow in the ground or in a pot?

In the ground — good if:

• You live in California or a similar climate
• You have naturally sandy or rocky soil
• You can guarantee dry summers

In a pot — better if:

• Your summers are rainy or humid
• Your soil is clay or loam
• You want to move the plant to a shelter during dormancy

CHECKLIST!

• Grow it in containers
• Use cactus or alpine soil mixes
• Keep it dry after flowering
• Avoid fertilizing (they prefer lean soil)

🌸 Is it beginner-friendly?

NO!  (Just keeping it real. 😁)

It’s moderately difficult, but not impossible. If you succeed, you'll have bragging rights!

🌼 GUESS WHAT??  IT'S EDIBLE!🌼 

The Fringed Mariposa Lily (Calochortus fimbriatus) is considered edible, but with important context.**

🌱 What part is edible?

Across the Calochortus genus, the bulbs are edible. This is documented in botanical references that group Calochortus fimbriatus with other mariposa lilies whose bulbs were traditionally eaten by Indigenous peoples. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council

🍽️ How were they traditionally used?

• Eaten raw or boiled
• Sometimes used as a survival food (famously, Sego Lily bulbs helped Mormon settlers during famine)
  Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council

⚠️ Important cautions

Even though the bulbs are technically edible, there are reasons not to harvest or eat them today:

1. Calochortus fimbriatus is a rare, California‑endemic species
   It has a conservation status of 1B.3 (rare, threatened, or endangered).
   Eating or digging up bulbs would harm wild populations.
   Calflora

2. Wild harvesting is ecologically damaging
   Removing bulbs kills the plant outright.

3. Identification risks
   Many lilies are toxic; misidentification can be dangerous.

🌼 Bottom line

• Edible in principle (bulbs), based on genus‑level documentation.
• Not recommended to eat — especially C. fimbriatus, which is rare and protected.

But if you have to choose between starving AND surviving, ...(Just keeping it real. 😁)

• NOTE:  In my family, my late mother had the green thumb.  Her plants and flowers always made the yard at my childhood home look amazing.  Whenever I get an opportunity to share info about flowers and plants, I post the content in memory of my mom.

**

Additional Reading:

Hodsdon, Edward. “The 25 Rarest Flowers in the World.” Petal Republic, 30 Jul. 2022, https://www.petalrepublic.com/rarest-flowers-in-the-world/.

Santillo, Susan. “12 Rare Flowers That Are Almost Impossible to Find.” Plantisima, 19 Mar. 2025, https://plantisima.com/rare-flowers-that-are-almost-impossible-to-find/.

Moulton, Madison. “29 Rare Flowers With Names and Pictures.” Botanicalinterests.Com/Community/Blog, 11 Apr. 2025, https://www.botanicalinterests.com/community/blog/rare-flowers/.

Green, Jennifer. “24 Rare American Flowers (That May Not Be Around Much Longer).” Positivebloom, 6 Mar. 2025, https://positivebloom.com/rare-american-flowers-that-may-not-be-around-much-longer/.

Artists I Fancy : Succulents (Canvas) by Oliver Gal at Gilt (Plus Gardening Tips)

Succulents (Canvas) by Oliver Gal at Gilt

via Joie de Vivre Magazine on Pinterest

~ Source PIN URL: http://ift.tt/2vanppG

NOTE: Oliver Gal is not a single artist, but a female‑founded art studio based in Miami, created by sisters Ana and Lola Sánchez. They produce contemporary, fashion‑inspired wall art, often featuring bold colors, glam themes, and pop‑culture motifs. Their work spans canvas prints, hand‑embellished pieces, abstract art, and decorative objects.  They’ve become widely distributed through retailers like Gilt, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, Amazon, and Wayfair.

SUCCULENTS ARE BEAUTIFUL BUT ...

Succulents are plants that store extra water in their leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to survive in dry or unpredictable climates. They come in many forms—from tiny stone-like Lithops to towering baobab trees—and make up roughly 3–5% of all flowering plants. Their defining trait is water storage, which lets them thrive in environments where many other plants cannot.  (REF:   British Cactus and Succulent Society)

---

🌱 Are succulents good for the environment?

Short answer: They can be—but it depends on how they’re grown, sourced, and used.

Below is a breakdown of the environmental benefits and concerns, based on current research.

---

🌍 Environmental Benefits

• Water efficiency
  Succulents use far less water than traditional garden plants. Some need only 1–2 ounces per week, compared to several gallons for other species. This makes them excellent for drought-prone regions and water conservation efforts.  (REF:   shunwaste.com)

• Climate resilience
  Their drought tolerance and ability to store water make them valuable models for adapting agriculture and landscaping to climate change. They can help maintain greenery in increasingly arid environments.  In other words, they can be very eco-friendly.  (REF:  cactusandsucculents.co.uk)

• Ecosystem support
  In their native habitats, succulents provide food, shelter, and water for animals, especially in deserts where resources are scarce. Their fruits help with seed dispersal and support biodiversity.  (REF:  cactusandsucculents.co.uk)

---

⚠️ BUT! There Are Some Environmental Concerns ⚠️ 

• Overharvesting and habitat loss
  Some succulents—especially rare cacti—are illegally collected from the wild, threatening species already at risk of extinction.  (REF:  Oxford Academic)

• Carbon footprint from global trade
  The booming popularity of succulents means many are shipped long distances, increasing carbon emissions.  (REF:   shunwaste.com)

• Invasive potential
  Certain succulents can become invasive when introduced outside their native range, disrupting local ecosystems.  (REF:  New Phytologist)

• Soil degradation
  Overharvesting wild plants can damage fragile soils and lead to erosion.  (REF:  shunwaste.com)

---

🌿 So… are succulents environmentally friendly?

They are environmentally friendly when:

• grown locally or ethically sourced
• used to replace water-intensive landscaping
• planted in appropriate climates
• not taken from the wild

They are harmful when:

• poached from natural habitats
• mass-produced with heavy resource use
• shipped globally in large volumes
• allowed to spread invasively

Succulents are adaptation champions, but like any trend, sustainability depends on responsible choices.

---

I don't have a green thumb.  But if I ever own a home, I'd like to have a garden and want to know what the best flowers and plants are to grow.  Succulents are good for indoors or outdoors.  To learn more, do additional research on eco-friendly succulents and how to grow them sustainably.

Music Quotes That Move Me ( and Probably Move You Too!)

Once upon a time, there was a community on Google+ for music lovers, and it had a category for “Music Quotes”. It was fun!  You share lyrics or quotes from a song that moves or touches you. Doesn't matter whether you're a fan of the artist's singing or even if you don't really like the song; sometimes certain words strike you. 

Sadly, the community no longer exists and also Google plans to shut down the G+ social network during 2019.

I love the idea of sharing music quotes that move me.  Here's an example. In this example, I also have great respect and admiration for the artist performing. Loyal Tina Turner fan. This is a throwback song from the soundtrack for Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome (1985).  This music video turned Tina Turner into a Post Apocalyptic Rock Goddess.

LYRICS / QUOTES: “There's just one thing you've got to know ... You're one of the living.”

“One of the Living” has a surprisingly rich backstory. It wasn’t just a soundtrack cut; it was a deliberate artistic pivot for Tina Turner, a collaboration with some unexpected rock heavyweights, and a music video that pushed her image into full-blown post-apocalyptic glam.

• “We Don’t Need Another Hero” became the emotional anthem of the film, “One of the Living” was the aggressive, rock-driven opener — and it earned Turner a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. (A Grammy win for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance (1986), but often cited as one of Turner’s most underrated rock performances. Weird (O.o).

• “We Don’t Need Another Hero” is about longing for peace and a future beyond violence; “One of the Living” is about survival in a brutal world.

Who actually played on it?

• Holly Knight (of “Love Is a Battlefield” fame) wrote the song.

• Mike Chapman (Blondie, The Knack) produced it.

• The Fixx’s guitarist, Jamie West-Oram, played the signature guitar parts.

• Tim Cappello, Turner’s famously ripped saxophonist, contributed as well.

The result was a track that blended Turner’s raw power with a distinctly mid 80s rock edge — perfect for the Mad Max universe. This video helped cement Turner’s mid 80s reinvention — not just a comeback pop star, but a cinematic, larger-than-life icon.

song of the day - "One Of The Living" | TINA TURNER | 1985.

On June 15, 2014, Casey Kasem, host of the longtime countdown program, AMERICAN TOP 40, passed away at the age of 82. ...

song of the day - "One Of The Living" | TINA TURNER | 1985.

On June 15, 2014, Casey Kasem, host of the longtime countdown program, AMERICAN TOP 40, passed away at the age of 82. From my first blog post (and probably some more in between then and now), I explained how, in 1979, I was a geeky, lanky, and somewhat lost 12-year-old living in Central Maine, had a...

First published at MyLot, SEPTEMBER 26, 2015

Music is What Feelings Sound Like Quote on a Vinyl Record Album Wall Art | Vinyl Revamped

Flowers in Scripture That Refer to (or Symbolically Foreshadow) Jesus Christ 🌸

Spring is the time of the year for flowers, and in particular, the months of March and April celebrate Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for humanity.  The Bible contains many flowers and images of flowers that are used directly or symbolically in connection with Jesus Christ.  Behold the beauty of Christ.

1. Lily

Biblical references:
Song of Solomon 2:1–2; Hosea 14:5; Matthew 6:28–29

Connection to Christ:
In Song of Solomon, the beloved is compared to a lily. While the original context is romantic poetry, Christian interpretation has often seen the Bridegroom as a type of Christ. In Hosea 14:5, God says of restored Israel, “He shall blossom like the lily,” which many Christians read as pointing to the Messiah’s purity and beauty. Jesus Himself references lilies when teaching about God’s provision, which believers connect to His own divine care.

Symbolic themes: purity, beauty, divine provision.

2. Rose / Rose of Sharon

Biblical reference:
Song of Solomon 2:1

Connection to Christ:
The text says, “I am the rose of Sharon,” spoken by the bride or bridegroom, depending on interpretation. Christian theology has historically applied this to Christ as the fairest, most beloved, and most fragrant among God’s people.

Symbolic themes: loveliness, uniqueness, the beauty of the Messiah.

Flowering Plants or Blossoms Used as Messianic Imagery

These are not always “flowers” in the modern gardening sense, but Scripture uses imagery of blossoming and botany to describe the Messiah.

3. The Branch That Blossoms

Biblical references:
Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5; Zechariah 6:12

Connection to Christ:
These are explicit messianic prophecies fulfilled in Jesus. While they do not name a specific flower, the imagery is botanical and often pictured as a flowering branch. Jesus is the righteous Branch from the line of David and Jesse.

Symbolic themes: new life, kingship, restoration.

4. Almond Blossom

Biblical reference:
Numbers 17:8

Connection to Christ:
Aaron’s rod miraculously “sprouted, put forth buds, produced blossoms, and bore ripe almonds.” Early Christian readers saw this as a type of Christ’s resurrection—life springing from what was dead. Almond blossoms also appear in the design of the lampstand (Exodus 25), which many connect to Christ as the Light of the World.

Symbolic themes: resurrection, priesthood, divine election.

5. Blossoms on the Vine

Biblical reference:
John 15:1

Connection to Christ:
Jesus says, “I am the true vine.” While the passage does not explicitly mention flowers, a vine naturally produces blossoms before fruit. The image emphasizes that all true spiritual life and fruitfulness flow from union with Christ.

Symbolic themes: spiritual life, fruitfulness, union with Christ.

Summary

Category	Flower / Plant	Scriptural Basis	Connection to Christ
Direct floral imagery	Lily	Song 2:1–2; Hosea 14:5; Matthew 6:28–29	Purity, beauty, divine care
Direct floral imagery	Rose / Rose of Sharon	Song 2:1	Beauty, belovedness
Flowering prophetic imagery	Branch (blossoming)	Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5; Zechariah 6:12	Messiah, kingship, restoration
Flowering prophetic imagery	Almond blossom	Numbers 17:8	Resurrection, priesthood
Botanical metaphor	Vine (implied blossoms)	John 15:1	Life-giving union and fruitfulness in Christ

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES:

• Brown, Raymond E. The Birth of the Messiah. Doubleday, 1993.
• Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. InterVarsity Press, 1993.
• Ryken, Leland, et al., editors. Dictionary of Biblical Imagery. InterVarsity Press, 1998.
• Wright, N. T. Jesus and the Victory of God. Fortress Press, 1996.

Thank you for visiting. B.O.B. (Blessings on Blessings.)🌸 

Christianity: Symbolism of the Palm Tree in Scripture

The palm tree carries deep symbolic meaning throughout the Bible, and many of its themes point beautifully to Jesus Christ and the life He gives.

1. Righteousness and Flourishing

Key verse: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.” — Psalm 92:12

The palm stands tall, straight, and evergreen, symbolizing enduring righteousness. Christ, the perfectly righteous One, fulfills this image completely. Believers flourish in Him just as a palm thrives even in harsh conditions.

Themes: steadfastness, purity, spiritual vitality.

2. Victory and Triumph

In the ancient world, palms symbolized victory and were awarded to champions.

Connection to Christ: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds waved palm branches (John 12:13), proclaiming Him as the victorious King.

Themes: kingship, triumph, messianic identity.

3. Peace and Welcome

Palm branches were used in celebrations and joyful processions. When the people laid palms before Jesus, they offered Him honor, peace, and a warm welcome.

Themes: hospitality, joy, celebration of the Messiah.

4. Fruitfulness in Harsh Conditions

The date palm thrives in desert climates by drawing water from deep underground. This makes it a symbol of life in barren places—a fitting picture of Christ bringing life where there is spiritual dryness.

Themes: provision, sustenance, life-giving presence.

5. Uprightness and Integrity

The palm grows straight upward, unlike many trees that twist or bend. This became a symbol of moral uprightness, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the One without sin.

Themes: holiness, moral clarity, divine perfection.

6. Resurrection and Eternal Life

Because palms remain green year-round and can live for centuries, they became symbols of immortality. Early Christians used palm imagery on tombs to proclaim the resurrection hope found in Christ.

Themes: eternal life, resurrection, hope beyond death.

7. Heavenly Worship

In Revelation, the redeemed stand before the throne with palm branches (Revelation 7:9). This echoes Jesus’ triumphal entry—now with His victory fully realized.

Themes: worship, final victory, redeemed humanity.

Hosanna Palm Leaf

Sources:

• Ryken, Leland, et al., editors. Dictionary of Biblical Imagery. InterVarsity Press, 1998.
• Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. InterVarsity Press, 1993.
• Wright, N. T. Jesus and the Victory of God. Fortress Press, 1996.

🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• My original content republished from: Treathyl Fox aka cmoneyspinner, “Trees Deserve Respect.” Wizzley.Com, 25 Jul. 2013.

PALM TREES

Palmae Family

The Arabs say that "The palm tree has 360 uses".  Sorry.  I don't have the list to share with you.  But I will share what I know. 

In ancient times and perhaps even today, the branch from a palm tree symbolized peace and victory, success, or celebration. Palm trees are very easy to recognize.  They are tall, slender, with no branches.  Instead of branches, on top of the trunk is a crown of spreading plumes. 

Most people associate palms swaying in the breeze with a tropical environment like Florida or The Bahamas.

While others think of the date palm tree that grows in the Middle East.  Its fruit is part of the daily diet of millions of people.  The date can be eaten fresh or dried; incorporated as a key ingredient in a myriad of recipes; and the tree sap can be made into syrup or wine.  Jericho, which is in the Jordan Valley, has a tropical climate, and is known for its lush palm groves.  Once it has reached maturity, this tree can yield fruit for 100 years. 

Wherever they grow, if you see a palm tree, breeze or no breeze, it is hard not to be captivated by its striking beauty.

Learn more:  How to Identify Species of Palm Trees

Thank you for visiting. B.O.B. (Blessings on Blessings.)🌴

A Century of Sakura: The Story Behind Japan’s Cherry Blossom Gift to the U.S.

Recently, the Japanese Prime Minister visited the US and gifted the country with 250 cherry blossom trees. Japan’s Prime Minister Gifts 250 New Cherry Blossom Trees to the United States.  Did you know that in 1912, the mayor of Tokyo gave 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the city of Washington, D.C.?

{NOTE:  I, the blog publisher, worked in the nation's capital for close to a decade.  I have always looked forward to springtime in Washington, D.C.  The cherry blossoms make you feel like you're in a fairy tale land.}

Few symbols of friendship are as enduring—or as breathtaking—as the cherry blossom trees gifted from Japan to the United States. Their soft pink blooms have become an iconic part of the American spring, drawing millions of visitors each year to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. 

But beyond their beauty lies a deeper story: one of diplomacy, cultural exchange, and a relationship that continues to blossom more than a century later.

That story has just gained a new chapter. During his recent visit to Washington, D.C., Japan’s Prime Minister gifted the United States 250 new cherry blossom trees, reaffirming the bond between the two nations and ensuring that this living symbol of friendship thrives for generations to come (Friedlander). This new gesture echoes the long tradition of Japan’s cherry blossom gifts to America.

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A Blossoming Friendship Between the US and Japan: How Did It All Begin?

Key moments in the early history include:

• 1885–1906: Initial diplomatic discussions about gifting cherry trees.

• 1910: The first shipment of trees arrived, but had to be destroyed due to disease.

• 1912: A second, healthy shipment arrived—these are the ancestors of many of today’s blossoms.

• First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese ambassador, planted the first two trees along the Potomac River.   

The tradition of Japanese cherry trees in the United States dates back to 1912, when Japan gifted 3,020 cherry trees to Washington, D.C. The gesture was meant to honor the growing friendship between the two countries and to celebrate the cultural connection through nature. According to the National Park Service, the first shipment of trees arrived in 1910 but had to be destroyed due to disease; the second shipment—healthy and vibrant—became the foundation of the trees we see today (“History of the Cherry Trees”).

The ceremonial planting of the first two trees by First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese ambassador, marked the beginning of a tradition that would grow into a national treasure (Library of Congress). This moment laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the National Cherry Blossom Festival, one of Washington, D.C.'s most beloved spring festivals.

Why Cherry Blossoms Matter in Japanese Culture

In Japan, cherry blossoms—sakura trees—represent the beauty and impermanence of life. (“sakura” is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms.) Their brief bloom is a reminder to appreciate the present moment, a theme deeply rooted in Japanese cultural and spiritual traditions (Varley). The practice of hanami, or flower viewing, brings communities together each spring to celebrate renewal, hope, and the fleeting nature of beauty.

This symbolism traveled with the trees to the United States, where they now inspire millions each spring. Many visitors search for the meaning of sakura, the significance of cherry blossoms in Japanese culture, and the deeper story behind these blooms.
Cherry Blossoms in America Today

The most famous cherry blossoms in the U.S. are in Washington, D.C., where the National Cherry Blossom Festival attracts more than a million visitors annually (“History of the Festival”). Travelers plan their trips around the cherry blossom peak bloom, eager to experience the breathtaking views around the Tidal Basin cherry trees.

But the trees have spread far beyond the capital. Across the country, these trees have become a beloved sign of spring and a reminder of international friendship. Many Americans now search for where to see cherry blossoms, discovering new groves each year.

Cherry Blossoms in America Today

The most famous cherry blossoms in the U.S. are in Washington, D.C.  Other cities where the trees have spread beyond the capital:

• New York City (Brooklyn Botanic Garden)

• Philadelphia

• San Francisco

• Seattle

• Nashville

• Austin and Dallas (smaller but growing collections)

Across the country, these trees have become a beloved sign of spring and a reminder of international friendship.

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It's March 2026. A New Chapter: Japan’s Prime Minister Gifts 250 New Trees

During her recent visit, Japan’s Prime Minister presented a new gift: 250 cherry blossom trees to be planted in Washington, D.C. This gesture honors the 110-plus-year legacy of the original 1912 gift and reinforces the enduring partnership between Japan and the United States (Friedlander). It also helps preserve the iconic landscape as older trees age, succumb to erosion, and face environmental stress.

This moment has sparked renewed interest in the history of cherry blossoms, the story of Japan’s cherry blossom gift, and the ongoing efforts to preserve these living symbols.

Why This Gift Matters Today

In a world often marked by tension and uncertainty, the gift of cherry blossoms is a reminder that diplomacy can be beautiful, symbolic, and deeply human. The trees represent peaceful cooperation, cultural appreciation, and hope for the future—values that remain as relevant today as they were in 1912.

The new trees also support the long-term preservation of cherry blossom trees in D.C., ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same breathtaking spring landscapes.

A Living Legacy

From the original 1912 gift to the Prime Minister’s 2024 offering, cherry blossoms have become more than trees—they are a living, blooming testament to friendship. Their presence in America is a reminder that even small gestures can grow into something extraordinary.

As the new trees take root, they will continue the story for generations to come, offering beauty, inspiration, and a shared moment of joy each spring. For many, the cherry blossoms are not just flowers—they are a symbol of renewal, connection, and the enduring beauty of international friendship.

glitter-graphics.com

 
REFERENCES:

Friedlander, Jennifer. “Japan’s Prime Minister Gifts 250 New Cherry Blossom Trees to the United States.” Town & Country, 11 Apr. 2024, townandcountrymag.comin Bing.

Library of Congress. “Sakura: Cherry Blossoms as Living Symbols of Friendship.” Library of Congress, loc.gov in Bing.

National Cherry Blossom Festival. “History of the Festival.” National Cherry Blossom Festival, nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/about/history/.

National Park Service. “History of the Cherry Trees.” National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, nps.govin Bing.

Varley, Paul. Japanese Culture. University of Hawai‘i Press, 2000.

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Do You Know Which Rock Stars Are Classical Music Composers?

Most everybody likes all kinds of music.

Most musicians in the entertainment business know that all kinds of music don’t always all kinds of record sales and a whole lot of cash!

Most successful rock musicians know that if they had started their career playing classical music, they would very likely not have a career.



Sharing this really cool link about rock stars who also write classical music. You probably already knew about Paul McCartney. Right?

Here is the complete list.

1. Paul McCartney
2. Roger Waters
3. Frank Zappa
4. Jonny Greenwood
5. Bryce Dessner
6. Glenn Danzig
7. John Paul Jones (???)

(???)  No doubt the former bassist for Led Zepellin has the skills but he has been writing an opera for several years.  (John Paul Jones Is Writing an Opera, UCR article dated June 2013).  Loyal fans who believe are wondering and waiting.  

♦ Reference:

DeGroot, Joey. “7 Rock Stars Who Also Write Classical Music: Paul McCartney, Frank Zappa, And More.” Music Times, February 03, 2018 / 12:05 AM, 17 June 2014, www.musictimes.com/articles/6855/20140617/7-rock-stars-who-also-write-classical-music-paul-mccartney-frank-zappa-and-more.htm.

Paul McCartney

• Rock: Paul McCartney rose to global fame as the bassist, singer, and co‑songwriter of The Beatles, later continuing with Wings and a long solo career. 
• Classical: He has composed major classical works, including Liverpool Oratorio, Standing Stone, and Ecce Cor Meum, establishing a parallel career in orchestral and choral music.  

Roger Waters

• Rock: Roger Waters co‑founded Pink Floyd and became the band’s principal lyricist and conceptual leader during its most influential years. 
• Classical: Waters has engaged deeply with classical music throughout his life, drawing on it as a major creative influence even beyond his rock compositions.  

Frank Zappa

• Rock: Frank Zappa led The Mothers of Invention and built a prolific solo career defined by experimental rock, satire, and genre‑blending innovation.  
• Classical: He composed orchestral, chamber, and musique concrète works from his teens onward, with pieces performed by ensembles such as the London Symphony Orchestra and Ensemble Modern.  

Jonny Greenwood

• Rock: Jonny Greenwood is best known as the lead guitarist and multi‑instrumentalist of Radiohead. 
• Classical: He has written numerous contemporary classical works—including Horror vacui, Water, and Smear—and is widely recognized for his orchestral and film‑score compositions. 

Bryce Dessner

• Rock: Bryce Dessner is the guitarist for The National, contributing to the band’s distinctive indie‑rock sound. 
• Classical: He is an award‑winning classical composer whose works are commissioned by major orchestras worldwide and who has built a significant career in modern classical and film music. 

Glenn Danzig

• Rock: Glenn Danzig founded the Misfits, Samhain, and Danzig, becoming a defining figure in punk, horror‑punk, and heavy metal.  
• Classical: He wrote and performed the modern classical album Black Aria, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s classical chart.  

John Paul Jones

• Rock: John Paul Jones was the bassist and keyboardist for Led Zeppelin and is regarded as one of rock’s most versatile multi‑instrumentalists.  
• Classical: He has composed contemporary classical works, including a newly premiered song cycle performed at London’s Wigmore Hall.  

Here is a clean, MLA‑formatted source list for the information about rock stars who also write classical music, based on the material surfaced in the search results you requested. Each citation corresponds to a source that discusses at least one of the musicians on your list and their classical‑music work.

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 ✔️ MLA 9 Citations for Sources Used

Music Times. “7 Rock Stars Who Also Write Classical Music: Paul McCartney, Frank Zappa, And More.” Music Times, 17 June 2014. Music Times

“Paul McCartney’s Obsession with Classical Music and His Symphonic Works.” The Beatles – Today in Beatles History, 10 Aug. 2025. The Beatles - Today in Beatles History

“Paul McCartney’s Classical Works: Where to Start.” Classic FM, 18 June 2013. Classic FM

“Paul McCartney’s Remarkable Classical Works.” Steve Hoffman Music Forums, 16 Jan. 2021. Steve Hoffman Music Forums

The Paul McCartney Project. “Paul McCartney • Classical Albums.” The Paul McCartney Project, www.the-paulmccartney-project.com. The Paul McCartney Project

The Vintage Guide to Classical Music: An Indispensable Guide for Understanding and Enjoying Classical Music

Read Books Written for Children like "All Around the Moon" by Jules Verne for FREE!

Do you enjoy reading children's books? I do.

I found an incredible treasure trove of historical children’s books at openculture.com, ALL digitized and free to read online. FREE!! 

I know all about “Around the World in 80 Days”. But I never knew Jules Verne wrote a book titled “All Around the Moon”. Did you?

~ Shared via Pinterest: http://ift.tt/2uCnfn7 

Rediscovering Historical Children’s Books

There’s something magical about opening a children’s book from another era. The language, illustrations, and moral lessons offer a window into how past generations understood childhood, imagination, and education. These books aren’t just quaint artifacts—they reveal shifting cultural values, forgotten storytelling styles, and the evolution of what adults once believed children needed to learn.

Exploring historical children’s literature can deepen our understanding of social history, art, and even parenting trends. It’s also a reminder that stories have always shaped how young people see the world.

If you’re curious to explore this rich legacy, one of the best resources available is a remarkable digital archive hosted by Open Culture. They’ve gathered over 6,000 historical children’s books, all fully digitized and completely free to read. The collection spans centuries and genres, making it an invaluable resource for educators, researchers, parents, and anyone who loves the charm of vintage storytelling.

This site offers open access to rare materials that would otherwise be locked away in special collections. It’s a treasure trove of cultural history—beautiful, surprising, and endlessly inspiring.

Book Lovers Gifts for Bookworm/Reader/Librarian, Books Accessories

for Reading Lovers, Bookish Items for Book Club, Reading Accessories Blanket 60x50in

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The Space Novels of Jules Verne: From the Earth to the Moon, All Around the Moon