The Smell of the Sun

I wonder who was the first person to call it “the smell of the Sun.”

When I was little, I was surprised at how warm the futon became after being aired out in the sun — almost hot.

It felt like magic, as if the Sun were shining only on my futon.

I couldn’t help hugging the futon, while the scent tickled my nose.

The smell of the Sun.

For a long time, I used a futon dryer instead of hanging my futon outside.

But one sunny day, I suddenly thought of placing a cushion near the window.

And then, I finally smelled it again.

Even though the futon dryer kept my futon dry, I still felt that something was missing.

Now I understand. I had missed the smell of the Sun.

Perhaps we have known this scent from the very beginning. That may be why we call it the smell of the Sun, or the smell of hay.

The Sun is embracing us all the time.

On sunny days, I bring my futon outside.

It feels like a small ritual to reconnect with the Sun.

I put my palms together toward the Sun in gratitude.