Winter reflections

When I returned home from the most epic 5 months in Africa in April 2014; from Ghana and Ethiopia and Egypt to be precise, I had a deep and unsatiated longing for Canadian winter.  Along with my plans to leave Canada in November 2013, I wanted nothing more of snow, of cold, of jackets or boots.  I was escaping winter for what I thought would be the first of many years to come. Africa made me nostalgic for the pleasantries which winter can provide. I longed for its return.  When winter finally arrived that year, it was my solitude and my peace.  The magic and the beauty of a soft blanket of snow which covers the ground, resting dormant, the snow brought comfort, as if everything was frozen in time.  Life waiting, just under the surface, for what would be made new. Everything felt on hold, a pause button for life.  That year, I wanted nothing of spring. All I wanted was for winter to last a lifetime.  I knew that I wasn't ready for what the change in seasons had in store.  But with change comes growth. When spring hinted its arrival in Ontario last March, I left for more winter in Quebec.  I followed winter until it vanished in May, my hands in the ground, digging up the life of new beginnings, while in the shadows and on the high places, remained that comforting blanket.   It was a reminder that seasons are a gift.  A unique experience, gifted especially to those who live in the North. I would say that my feelings and desires for eternal winter have lessened this year.  Much more balanced and very much grateful to have had the opportunity to experience what feels like two Canadian springs already in 2016, I feel pure joy. Pure joy, not only for little hints of spring, but also to be back in Quebec where winter is strong, and cold is fierce.  A reminder that being alive and feeling extremes can be the most precious of gifts.