OX Spring 2022
2022, early March, Shanghai was unexpectedly hit by the Omicron pandemic. Due to the government’s zero tolerance policy, this mega city of 250 million people went through partial to complete lockdown starting the second week of March.
During the lockdown period, spring arrived. Outside, the most obviously sign was cherry blossoms everywhere, ranging from white, light pink, fuchsia, to dark pink. They showed clear signs of vitality, renewal of life, and natural beauty in perfection, which brought me a sense of happiness and awe for the wonders of life cycles and amazement by the punctual performances of the seasons.
Inside, there was definitely no signs of vitality, lacking the smell and the feel of spring arrival. We could only crave for and imagine what it must feel like being out in the sun, looking closely at the beautiful cherry blossoms. However, at the same time, family got closer as they spent more time together, priorities were re-examined and re-shaped, the real hierarchy of needs were recognized, our spiritual realms were also brought alive. There was a different sense of spring blossoms from within when we all had to stay indoor for a prolonged period of time.
We live in a world that’s made up of reality and illusions, judgements of right or wrong, true or false, good or bad. These intertwining intricacies made up our stories. In our stories, we seek for hope and truth.
Did spring blossom in 2022?
Photos by Irene Chang Studio
