We are still getting winter weather in my corner of the world and we recently had three major snow storms in one week. Spring is just around the corner, and our snowbanks are diminishing as the snow is melting, in between new snowfalls. These snowfalls are a reminder that it is still winter.
After the merriment and excitement of the festive holiday season, winter has very much been a period of rest and reflection for me. I feel like I’ve been a field lying fallow. There are good reasons, that so much has been written about this topic, and why so many people do consider winter a time for quiet moments, contemplation, and restoration. And which, if you think about it, is in harmony with the natural world that we are a part of.
I usually have a feeling of greater energy in the early spring, an excitement with the renewal of life and appearance of green that comes with that season, but I can’t have this feeling without that period of winter that comes before it.
Winter gives me a much needed opportunity to reflect, and to process the past year. To heal from past experiences, to understand my priorities, and to plan for the future. It’s an exciting time of setting our intentions for the seasons ahead, whether you are planning out your garden or making vacation and social plans or scheduling in your creative projects.
I remind myself to enjoy every season, every moment, while I am in it. This includes winter. But it does feel like it has been a tougher winter in terms of snowstorms and for me I feel that when spring comes, I intend to rejoice and to savour every moment. I’m so looking forward to early morning walks with my dog without having to be concerned with ice and snow, and the gradual warmer weather of spring. The sunrises that are a little earlier each day and all the beautiful music of the birdsong. I’m grateful for winter, but I’m also grateful for winter drawing to a close, and I’m ready for spring.