These trees in my neighborhood bloom magnificently for just a short while.

Even in their prime days, the blossoms begin to shudder onto the street, especially if there's a wind.

It's hard to know how to behave in the face of such beauty. I sat on the curb across the street from them for a good 10 minutes with my grandchildren Saturday. And we just talked about those blossoms.

My grandchildren were my excuse to pause and appreciate. But why can't I do the same during morning walks by the trees? Sit right down there and stare for many minutes. Instead, I rush by, eager to get a workout in.

In this world that can be so ugly, beauty should always be a show stopper.

(Tony Wadden photo)

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