The Voice of Winter

Tis true. Life continues. Bustling cities still bustle. Not a lot changes in the work place, but in the lives of all humanity, a return to simplicity begins as winters chill invades. Life becomes quieter as folks hibernate during the evening hours, welcoming the warmth of a crackling fireplace and cozy blankets while anticipating the relaxing feel of hot cocoa coursing its way across their sensory buds and into their bodies. Homemade soups, cornbread, and freshly baked cookies give a sense of well being as nourishment is supplied our tired bodies.

To me, Winter is a much needed reprieve from all the hustle and bustle of Spring, Summer, and even bits of Fall. Once September hits, I start breathing just a bit easier. By October, my mind starts preparing for the softness that cooler temps will bring, all the while, watching leaves on the trees begin their display of beauty, knowing it will be all too soon they must release their grip on what has given them life. If one watches closely, a tree will define humanity. There are seasons to life. Each season has a purpose, although very different.

November brings us remembrance to be thankful. Grateful, for all the preparation time we've had, hoping we've prepared enough. Enough to carry us through the peaceful season of reflection and the biggest change of all. Hoping we have left enough behind, so our family tree will be remembered long after winter has left its cloak of beauty upon the now barren limbs. 

It is the quietness of winter that I cherish the most. It is in the quiet places where my soul finds its peace. It's in the alone times of reading a good book, sipping on coffee, maybe having a favorite biscotti to nibble on, that I gain strength. Mental strength, which produces physical strength, if given opportunity. 

I do find purpose in every season, and would be sad without the variation, but the voice of winter always calls to me.

Waiting for the snow to arrive, here you will find me...in Mary's World.