World Tree of Hope dazzles with 20,000 origami cranes in San Francisco

In downtown San Francisco, the World Tree of Hope has been a shining symbol of hope, particularly relevant during uncertain times. The tree, located at Grace Cathedral, is uniquely adorned with nearly 20,000 origami cranes, each one inscribed with a handwritten wish from people worldwide. This year, the display takes on added significance, as many seek solace and connection amid feelings of uncertainty and distance due to continued global challenges. Linda Mihara, the tree's head designer for the past 19 years, attributes her deep-rooted connection to origami as not just a craft, but a family tradition. Her dedication has transformed the World Tree of Hope into a gathering point of joy and shared hopes for the community. The cranes are a testament to collective dreams and aspirations, reminding viewers of the beauty found in a simple act of folding paper. Jeff Cotter, the founder of Rainbow World Fund, emphasized the importance of the tree this year, noting that it serves as a reminder for people to focus on hope and kinship. The wishes on the cranes draw from a global pool, with contributions including heartfelt messages from notable figures such as President Obama, Jane Goodall, Hillary Clinton, and others. Each crane reflects not only individual hopes but also shared humanity in challenging times. As communities gather at the tree, the act of folding origami becomes a bridge connecting people across divides. Celebrating this tradition, Mihara expressed her commitment to continuing this initiative. Each year the growing number of cranes showcases the enduring power of connection, reflection, and hope at a time when they are needed most.