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July 14, 2003 Stepping out of winter into spring reminds me so much of the scene from Wizard of Oz where Dorothy first enters into the strange yet vividly colorful new world. After months of bare branches, white streets and lawns, and bundling up in layers of clothing, a fresh new world brightens our souls, sloughing away the winter blues. This year, the snow didnt seem to want to melt away and I became frustrated. I missed the sunshine, I longed to run outside and get back to my active days. The depression had set in quickly this year, my favorite time of year, autumn, had been cut short by the cold weather setting in. Walking the streets on Halloween night, the first snow fell, bringing a quick end to trick or treating. It was only one night a year and the snow just couldnt wait. Talk about disappointment! I attempted many times to find the positive advantages to an early frost. While it wasnt easy, I did find comfort in newly fallen snow. Staring out the window, there was a fluffy blanket settled over the lawn without a footprint or flaw in sight. A small smile formed upon my lips as I realized it stirred my heart from deep within. Taking a walk I found the chill almost unbearable until I began a snowball fight with a neighbor, making me forget all about how cold I was. An hour later we both realized it was time to warm up by the fire, drinking hot cocoa and we each left for home. I thought to myself, okay, so there were a few nice things about winter after all. By far the most glorious moment was waking up Christmas morning, feeling like I was in a real live Hallmark greetings card. The tree was surrounded by dozens of presents, stockings were filled to the top, and the fire was blazing. Out the window was a beautiful picture of purity and innocence. Snowflakes fell as if poetry in motion. Tears fell from my eyes as I felt like a witness to a beautiful miracle. Everything was just as it should be. I jumped up, clapping my hands, and let out a yelp. I couldnt imagine Christmas morning any other way! By the third full month of winter I again found myself frustrated. I prayed for an ending to this white madness threatening to take away all my sanity and fun. I longed for the feeling of freedom. I felt winter had placed chains upon my soul, locking me away from life and all its joys. Within days it seemed those prayers were answered. Rooftops dripped the remains of the snow and I saw the first signs of spring. How glorious! Running outside I inspected for clues of the coming of Mother Natures beautiful gifts. It was by the stump of the tree I spotted a vibrant violet flower poking its head out. I breathed in the fresh air and let it fill my lungs to full capacity. I felt alive and renewed, awakened by the promise of a colorful world just around the corner. I looked up into the sky, seeking out faint blue patches and shouted thank you to extend my appreciation. Within a few weeks the world became a filled in palate of colors. A portrait of new life, new beginnings, and incredible scents of flowers, trees, and plants. I fell to the emerald green grass, rolling like a dog with serious fleas. Laughing, I placed my arms behind my head and looked into the blue sky, listening to the birds singing as they welcomed the spring as well. I was finally able to put away that old winter coat, hat, and mittens and substitute them for a light sweater that allowed the gentle breeze to brush past me, sending my spirits soaring, touching me with the warmth of the sunshine. It felt so good to smile I thought I had forgotten how. My heart beat stronger and I was bursting with energy. My neighbor and I got together that day and took a small hike to the creek. The water gurgled and bubbled as we skipped the stones and chewed on the crisp tall grass. We imagined ourselves in a beautiful field, right out of Anne of Green Gables, walking along the shores of Avonlea. Laughing freely we chased butterflies and played tag. I was amazed at the difference I felt. There was a spring and a bounce in my step that I had missed. The world was whole again, feeling balanced and complete. I never wanted this feeling to end. While I knew it was the way of our world to accept the changes and appreciate what each season brought to us, it never ceased to amaze me how sometimes it took the coming of spring to really see the beauty. An enchanting world surrounding me, and it took the season of birth and renewal for me to understand it. It was like opening my eyes for the first time. I looked at things in a new light, fresh with confidence and wonder. Without a doubt, spring was worth the long cold winter wait. The coming of this precious season gave me a new sense of hope and brought back the innocence of my youth. I battled those winter blues and staved off spring fever. What new challenges await me now? ------------ About the author: Nancy Jackson is a full time author and poet with works in Literati, Twilight Times, Anotherealm, Sonny World, and various anthologies. Her pasttimes include spending time with her loved ones, drinking wine, and lots of writing! Email Nancy Jackson: coryann93@yahoo.com Comment on this column in the forum. Tell a friend about this site! ------------ |
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