Anxiously Awaiting Spring?

"Anxiously awaiting Spring," has been my response of choice of late when asked, "How are you?"  "Anxiously awaiting Spring" suggests hope for what Spring brings; it also suggests a certain longing to let winter go.  Sadly, that has been my focus.  I'm not usually one to harbor ill toward the seasons, even the harsh winters of my home town, but this winter has been different.

Today I walked my favorite woods and beach path, once again snow-covered from yesterday's falling.  The chill wind was blowing, necessitating my hood and mittens.  I dreaded going out, knowing it would be so.  But once out in it, I felt good.  The chill didn't make me shiver; it invigorated me.  The snow didn't blanket my happiness; it beautified my path.  The quiet didn't make me feel lonely; it made me feel peaceful.

Long, dark, frigid, and seemingly lifeless winter days can make us feel weary and isolated.  The same can be said of long, dark, frigid, and seemingly lifeless relationships, careers, and simple daily life.  When we try to protect ourselves from these aspects of winter, or life, it is easy to become afraid to face them.  If, however, we get 'out in it,' so to speak, and face everything as it comes, we can appreciate the opportunity and reward for having done so.

Embrace all that the seasons of life bring.  Get 'out in it' and make the most of it, always grateful for the opportunity to LIVE another day!

Anxiously awaiting Spring?  Of course.  Also, joyfully enjoying Winter.