Yea for Spring! Hibernation is Over!
Every year about this time, I’m reminded of the seasons of life.
During the winter months, I go into a sort of hibernation, sleeping longer hours, eating hot soups, potatoes, cookies, chocolate, and other warm and cozy comfort foods. It’s the natural thing to do when it’s cold and dark, and when I’m sad or depressed.
Even though we haven’t really experienced much cold weather in California this year, the winter months and the loss of my mother have taken me to a darker place. I wear my “writer’s sweater,” (the one that zips up in front and makes me feel ever so scholarly), turn on the heater in the office, and bury my head in writing new books and speeches.
Then something happens that wakes me from my winter slumber / slump; daylight savings time. It’s all over the papers and the news: “Spring forward and come out of the darkness!” says the headline.
I’m timid at first, as if dipping my toe into the ocean to test the water temperature. I walk slowly, noticing the blossoming flowers as I breathe the fresh spring air. I begin to eat better foods, focusing more on fruits and vegetables, fish, and “lighter” fare. It’s time to give my bicycle a tune-up, go on daily walks, plant new flowers, and watch the world come back to life.
With spring, my sadness turns to joy, my darkness turns to light, and my body feels alive again. I feel as though I can do anything I put my mind to…and so can you.
Go outside, take a walk, notice the flowers, and don’t forget to stop and smell the beautiful fragrance in the air. It’s a beautiful time of year.
With love and optimism,
Larry
P.S. What are your thoughts?
Are you joyful that spring has come — or would you rather continue to hibernate for a few more weeks?
