We'll see if tea and buns will make the world a better place." The Wind in the Willows
This post is for those of us who have to keep reminding ourselves how to navigate through the sometimes long and dreary winter months and why it is so necessary to do so.
It's wintertime again. Like everyone else, I find cloudy, dreary winter days a bother. Until I remember that there is a purpose for each season, and then I begin to ponder. What can I take away from this? How can I find peace and adapt to this little span of time, this season of Winter, that I refuse to run away from. Yes, run away from like living on a beach, which isn't practical or cheap, or even an option for me. Or get caught up in a steady stream of events and parties, stores, malls and shopping sprees that all come with their own noise and music, distractions and every sort of buzz to take me away from reality. Nothing against the old adage "everything in moderation". It happens and it can be good.
I like to think I can do better. Because the take-away is sweeter in the long run. Say it again. The take-away is sweeter in the long run. For me, 'savor the season' becomes a mantra. Finding ways to savor the season becomes a mission. Little things, simple things, like reading, napping, sitting by the fireplace or heater when I'm lucky enough to be near one, or lighting candles throughout the home start me on this journey. I find that brewing a pot of tea or coffee or creating a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows and watching a Christmas or good old-fashioned movie is very comforting for me. Snuggling with someone I love and who loves me back, including children or a furry pet is a blessing. It also reminds me to pray for those who are alone, totally alone.
Enjoying the silence, complete silence for small periods of time. All these are comforting, relaxing and healing. Soft music is sweeter than honey and I know when I need to hear it.
Winter solstice is a time of going into ourselves, hibernating in our homes when we can, like withdrawing into a womb. It's conscioulsy taking time to rest our weary bodies and our over-burdened minds; stepping back from the hustle and bustle and noise around us to a place of comfort, peace and warmth. It's a natural cycle of Nature, like the animal kingdom around us, so we can learn to let go, heal and reflect. The take-away is sweeter in the long run when we try to adapt to what is and will be until Spring.
So, come along inside and let's see if we can find some place safe with somebody good.
Even if only by our self.
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