The calendar says it's spring, and has been for several weeks now, but the evidence hasn't been consistent with that fact this year. It's been rather cold this spring, and there was snow on the ground the other day! However, the leaves are green, flower bulbs have sprung up out of the ground, and the feeling that it's spring has awakened. Everything in nature is new in the spring.
I think we get a sense of this in life too, especially if you live in a colder climate. We tend to "shut down" somewhat during winter because many of the things we enjoy in the warmer weather we can't do when it's cold. And parks and services are closed in the off-season.
I rather envy people that participate in winter sports and activities because they are able to stay more active throughout the year. I, however, am not a fan of the cold so I am relegated to the inside for half the year. I have taken up swimming in our high school pool which has been very enjoyable and has helped me feel stronger physically, and less prone to the winter "blues."
This past year I decided to utilize the seasonal down-time for growth and reflection, so I set out to read some new books. Non-fiction is my favorite genre, including memoir and self-help books. I have to admit that this became addictive, as my list of book purchases on my amazon account kept growing! My wish list is absurdly long too, but there are worse vices than reading books.
I have learned a great deal from these volumes and am striving to incorporate the wisdom gleaned into my daily life. It has been helpful to face life's inevitable challenges armed with more or newer insights than before. The knowledge gained from others' experience can serve to minimize or alleviate many potential complications.
I've also learned of late that it's okay to ask for help or feedback from people I trust; people who won't disown me if I don't follow their advice. It's during hard times that you find out who your friends really are. Real friends are there throughout the gray winter, and get to rejoice with you in the spring.
