The first snowfall of the year came in with the force that often reminds us of how insignificant we are in nature’s midst. Five inches blanketed the ground, roads, and trees. Some of us cursed while traversing the roads, others admired and reveled in its visual assault.
Nature’s storms come and go with the seasons, giving us a reckoning of its power and beauty. Those of us who struggle with the harsh winter and driving in the snow have choices. As in life, we can find the beauty and enjoyment or complain and whine, feeling like a victim of nature’s gifts.
I have spoken of the indirect benefit of loss, abuse, and trauma. Nature also gives us rewards with its storms. A re framing must take place if we are ever to find the positives in life. Re framing the negative perceptions can benefit us every day.
We have become too complacent, too settled in routine, too busy, and caught up in the societal rush to get to the top of the capitalistic rung. Look again, really look and see what we have been given. Whether it is nature’s gifts, the gift of a child’s laughter, or perhaps a story of the past shared by a grandparent, gifts are given to us daily. Open your eyes; take in life. Appreciate the simple, for those simple gifts live long in our hearts.
My children have been on extravagant trips abroad. When I ask them to reflect on their most positive memories of the past, they speak of campfires, stargazing, snowball fights, and inexpensive camping trips. The simple moments in life are those that live long in their hearts.
Close your eyes. What do you reflect on? Is it family time, a hug from Mom and Dad, or maybe building your first snowman after the year’s first snowstorm? You can choose to read and ignore this blog topic or begin to implement change. Move forward. Get out of your routine and chose to do something different. The approaching storm may bear fury, but the result is usually peace and serenity. See the positive; it has been there all along.
{ 0 comments… add one now }