One of my absolute favorite sights these past couple of days is this [mini] field of poppies on the sidewalk stretch of a house around the corner from us. They dot red while swaying amidst the mexican feather grass, and the texture and color are unusual and gorgeous in combination.

And I have a soft spot, specifically, for these red poppies. Growing up, I’ve recited the poem In Flanders Fields in school and beyond, every year, in remembrance of all the soldiers from the World’s Wars. What is undoubtedly a British-led tradition [we don’t see much of those plastic fuzzy poppies pinned to jackets come November 11] it still signals a silent nod of gratitude and appreciation for all those lives’ lost, while also reminding us to be grateful for all that we have today.

It’s no coincidence, then, that these poppies showed up just as the devastation in Japan unfolded. And so, in remembrance of all of those lost this past week, and in gratitude for all of those that are working desperately to keep things as safe as possible – I put up this post, and these flowers.

And if you’d like to help out – contact Shelterbox to help those in need.