Spring Parade

The parade begins on the first day of spring. The old and very wrinkled "Mother Winter"wearing her untidy gray wig, swirling her long white robe, sprinkles white snowy flakes of glitter and confetti in an unfortunate last attempt to stay just a little longer. She does not wish to leave the scene simply because her beloved cold and shivering winter is all that the poor woman has left. Alas, she has to depart the world and pave the way for spring. Her seven trees with all their bare silence walk behind her. Children wave good bye to "Mother Winter" and her naked trees.

Snow and glitter are swept away, marking the all too important spring cleaning ritual. Finally, "Uncle Norouz" the aged bearded man, dressed in exotic Persian costume, arrives with his huge bundle of gifts and goodies. He welcomes children with his generosity and kind spirit. Behind him is the very charming and popular "Haji Firouz" a man of many musical talents, showing off his painted face and a brightly colored attire of red and green, singing cheerful tunes and dancing. His little marching band includes seven young dancers, flute, drum, and tambourine players, and a little girl shaking bells.

Next, come the seven blossoming trees, displaying their abundance of scented little blooms. The seven spring fairies, daffodil, hyacinth, tulip, lilac, lily, gladiola, and the rose crowned with glory present their beauty and grace. The "Haft Seen" spread is brought to the audience's curious attention, by brightly dressed young marchers, in each hand, a symbolic item.

Sabzeh (sprouted wheat, tied up in pretty colorful ribbon, symbol of growth), Seeb (red apple for beauty), Seer and Serkeh (garlic and vinegar, for driving off ill spirit), Senjed (lotus for love), Sekeh (gold and silver coins for prosperity), Samanoo (decadent wheat pudding, for patience), gold fish in crystal bowl for youth, colored eggs for fertility, mirror for reflection as all our acts come back to us, candles for light, a bowl of Seville oranges floating in water representing the earth in space, and a jar of rose water for purity.

At last, "Grandma"the story teller arrives with a large platter of sweets and nuts, followed by the enchantment of seven spring birds feathered and joyful, singing of hope and dreams. What a sweet and nostalgic memory the parade leaves behind!

Happy spring and may the spirit of green reside all through the year.