Feathers

Feathers

Walk lightly

Walk light like a feather

strong enough to fly

vulnerable to the winds

but with a freedom to rise, rise, rise

and find the lightest of love

Tjen

The red-crown crane bird is a regular motif in geisha tradition. Tall and graceful, these birds used to be located across the entire country of Japan. Due to habitat destruction and human expansion they are now only found on Hokkiado, the most northern island of Japan. One of the longest-living species of bird, cranes are a symbol of longevity as they live an average of 40 to 50 years. However, they are best known as symbols of fidelity as they mate for life and perform a new courtship dance with their partner each year to renew and strengthen their bond. The rhythmic dancing of cranes is generally thought of as an epxression of excitement between crane couples, yet often triggers other pairs to start duetting, as well.