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? Scroll down to share your answer below!
P.P.S. Have you seen this?
I’m in the running for Sonia Marsh’s “My Gutsy Story” Contest! Only 4 more days to vote… click here! I’d love to have your support. 
I have always loved spring,I am putting a lot of hope in this one,I need a big change!
HI Tom,
I’m with you! I’ve had enough of being “down there.” I don’t even like being ‘down’ so UP we go!
Thanks so much for writing.
Larry
I’m excited to see my flowering daffodills that were only bulbs a few months ago. Today was breezy and cool enough to wear a jacket, and just perfect for a 3 1/2 mile walk with my husband. I will sleep well tonight!
Take care Larry.
Enjoy being awake!
Anita
HI Anita,
Saw loads of daffodills yesterday on my walk too. So glad you’re enjoying it!
All the best,
Larry
I’m out of hibernation, although I don’t think I ever allow myself to hibernate. Too much to do year round. You know what I mean Larry.
Sonia,
Right you are…for us entrepreneurs, it’s nonstop. However, when spring comes around, I have more zest to put into every one of those projects!
Thanks for your comment!
Larry
Hi Larry,
I love your happy words. They make me smile! I take time to smell the roses all year long even when they are not blooming!
Hi B,
Which is a good thing because since writing that blog, we’ve had only rain!
(which I also love!)
Larry
“Like a painting it is set before one,
But less brittle, ageless; those colours
Are renewed daily with variations
Of light and distance that no painter
Achieves or suggests. Then there is a movement,
Change, as slowly the cloud bruises
Are healed by sunlight…” R.S.Thomas (Welsh poet).
Or, if you prefer: ” Beauty seen is never lost.” John Greenleaf WHITTIER (1807-1892 )