I am struck by how different the attitude toward winter is between people. I can barely tolerate the season whereas others seem to embrace it. I was recently in Minnesota and saw several people who have dedicated their entire front lawn to create a temporary ice rink. My niece’s entire 6th grade class went on a 4-day overnight outdoor environmental education trip this week. Festivals carry on as if winter were just another season instead of a reason to cancel everything and stay indoors.
I live in the Midwest and while I know that I will have to deal with cold and snow, I spend a lot of energy dreading the end of autumn and hoping for the start of spring. How much better would it be if I had something to look forward to in the winter months.
While I have no plans to construct an ice rink, in the spirit of gratitude, I have made a mental list of things I appreciate about this season. My list includes items like pomegranates, being able to snuggle up in a huge pile of blankets, laughing at my crazy dog as she roots through the snow with her nose digging for balls and cranberry English muffins.
Tonight as you’re transitioning to sleep, consider the things that make this season wonderful for you. Changing your perspective may help you have a warm heart, even if the thermometer says otherwise.
