Read by Michael Flamel

AAs I strolled along the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness mixed with excitement. The cherry blossoms, those delicate pink and white blooms that have enchanted visitors for over a century, were in full display, but looming over the celebration was the impending renovation project that would bid farewell to some of these iconic trees, including the beloved Stumpy.

The story of these cherry trees dates back to 1912 when the mayor of Tokyo gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the city of Washington, D.C., as a symbol of friendship between Japan and the United States. Since then, the trees have flourished along the Tidal Basin, becoming a symbol of Springtime and renewal.

However, with rising water levels threatening their existence, it was time for a change. The renovation project aimed to rebuild and raise the seawalls around the basin, ensuring a healthier environment for the remaining trees and the addition of new ones.

Among the casualties of this necessary transformation was Stumpy, a scraggly little cherry tree with a trunk mostly rotted out. Despite its less-than-perfect appearance, Stumpy had captured the hearts of many visitors over the years. In fact, Stumpy even had its own calendar, showcasing its transformation through the seasons.

As I walked among the cherry blossoms, I couldn’t help but notice the outpouring of affection for Stumpy. Visitors snapped photos and shared stories of past encounters with the charmingly imperfect tree. It was a bittersweet farewell, but one filled with gratitude for the memories Stumpy had provided.

But amidst the sadness, there was also hope. The renovation project promised not only to preserve the legacy of the cherry trees but to enhance it. With new trees planned for planting and improved infrastructure to protect them, the future looked bright for this cherished symbol of friendship and beauty.

As I bid farewell to Stumpy and the other trees slated for removal, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness this moment in history. Change was inevitable, but the spirit of the cherry blossoms would endure, bringing joy and inspiration to generations to come.

And so, with a mixture of sadness and anticipation, I said my final goodbye to Stumpy, knowing that its legacy would live forever in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing it.

As I turned to leave, I glanced back at the Tidal Basin, where the cherry blossoms swayed gently in the breeze, a reminder that even in the face of change, beauty would always find a way to bloom anew. ❖