Hopespring

I’d completely forgotten that hopeful feeling that comes with spring.

Just two weeks ago, during the first ten days of April, nature brought in snow squalls on and off each day. The temperature grew frigid.

As I draft this post on April 18th, the temperature is 83 degrees with sunshine.

You know the old saying that you can’t know joy without sorrow? It’s not just a saying, it’s true, and it’s also the truth about living in an environment that doesn’t have seasons.

Once a body has experienced cold and barren nature, the first sparks of warmth and buds brings joy. Not that winter isn’t pretty, but after prolonged exposure, gratitude for sunshine and warmth abounds.

I had no appreciation for the sunshine in Florida. The heat and humidity lasts for most of the year, so there was rarely any change. After a quarter of a century, I had no means for comparison anymore. The temperature didn’t change all that much, with some fluctuations in December through March. Sure, there was rain, but even that was fleeting.

My dog Max, sniffed a dandelion for the first time, because they didn’t exist in Florida. I know they are considered weeds, but they are a reminder of glorious change.

People emerge from their winter cocoons. Riding bikes. Walking their dogs. Relaxing in the comforting warmth of rays from above. Smiles on faces. Spring in their steps (pun intended).

They have something to compare their days to … snow squalls two weeks ago, sunshine and warmth today.

Gratitude.

Moods are lifted and the entire energy of the community is upbeat.

New life is springing up everywhere.

The change in seasons fascinates me. It’s Nature doing Its thing all on Its own. There is no one punching keys on a computer to bring in spring. We can only watch and adjust to each season.

I’m enjoying observing nature slowly come alive again. I get to watch the buds turn into blooms!

This will turn into ….

this

How do the leaves know to fade away and die in preparation for winter?

How do the trees know when spring has sprung to grow back new leaves?

I envy nature’s instinct.

This will turn into …

this

Nature has no fear of death in the winter and trusts life will return in another form around the bend.

I believe in a life after death, but what it is, I cannot say. Which sometimes leaves me feeling uneasy at the thought.

I envy nature’s fearless faith in life after death.

There are few areas in life where I let go of control. Knowing I can’t control Nature as It takes care of Itself actually brings me a sense of peace.

Nature is one thing I trust.

How do you feel about the seasons? Would you be happy never experiencing them again? Which is your favorite season?

P.S.  Along with the hope of spring, brought hope for good health. I’m 80% better from that wretched virus.

 

Advertisement