As I write this, sitting in the park on a sunny day in early spring, it is still too early for any cherry blossoms to be seen, but the buds clustered on each branch are swelling, and it shouldn't be too long before this hillside is transformed from its current wintry appearance into a cascade of pink clouds.

This is a good time for bird-watchers, before all the leaves come out to offer hiding places, and many of the visitors to the park today are carrying binoculars. Just a moment ago, I noticed one gentleman over on the far side of the orchard aim a huge camera right in my direction. Is he watching this strange 'bird' who sits on this bench, pencil in hand? Then I hear a small rustling sound near my ear, and I realize that he is aiming at a tiny bird perched on a branch near my head.

I am not as experienced as all these bird-watchers though, and as I turn my head to look more closely, it flies away. Have I spoiled the photograph? Perhaps ... But I am sure he can find many more chances today ...

Not too far from me, sitting on a sheet they have spread on the grass, are a couple of young lovers eating their picnic lunch, feeding each other pieces of onigiri. I can't hear the actual words they are saying, but I don't need to ... I know what they are talking about. What would you talk about, as you basked in this warm sunshine, nibbling onigiri, enjoying the bird songs together with your 'special' person ...?

The noises of the city come only faintly this far into the park. Out there, millions of people are dashing back and forth, doing this and that. But in here, just a few of us are moving to a different drummer.

Won't you join us sometime?