We think about the weather quite often, almost obsessively. It’s not a surprise, of course. Weather and the climate we live in shape and sculpt parts of us we tend not to notice. The weather patterns are embroidered into our skin like proof of residence or citizenship.

I live in a place where the weather is severe, in my opinion. The ups and downs of her temperament can be violent at times. I feel internally offended each time she throws an unexpected blow, so aggressive it forces me to start considering relocating to a more balanced climate. Perhaps it may be a place where winter is more merciful in its duration and moods. Going through the cold months is a challenge for me, even though I appreciate the beauty and rawness of the darker, slower times of year.

This past winter was a testing one on many levels, internally and externally. The weather was ruthless, cold, icy, windy and long. I wonder what it is trying awaken within us? The harshness of the snow and the bitter freeze were a loud, clear, inescapable bell, ringing in alarm that forces you to focus. It pulls you out from the swirling, hypnotizing day to day narratives that keep us in a drug induced-like state. That loud, persistent ringing forces us to slow down, and feel the hot cup of coffee in our hands, all the sensors in the skin tingling with excitement. We are snapped back into what’s actually important.

I sense that I need to listen to the wind more closely, attentively and lovingly. It is an honest friend, and if you are willing to pause, be still and listen to what it whispers to you, it’ll be your faithful guide. The wind has power. The wind has a confident voice with a lulling quality I can learn to appreciate. The gales that come in off the Great Lakes loudly carry silent answers to silent questions. A song to hear. A sweeping touch. An illusive whisper. Winter wind can deafen, frighten and madden you. It can also cleanse, inspire and serenade you. It can hold stories of old, a hello from afar or deep insights that only the trees know. I am learning to love the wind. I want to befriend it and sing its song. This song I can keep in my pocket throughout the winter and carry in my heart throughout the year, until the next winter storm.~~~