"The simplicity of winter has a deep moral. The return of Nature, after such a career of splendor and prodigality, to habits so simple and austere, is not lost either upon the head or the heart. It is the philosopher coming back from the banquet and the wine to a cup of water and a crust of bread."
~ John Burroughs ~
One thing about the snow- it's quiet. It softens the earth and stills the noise that whirs around us all of the time that we don't even notice until it's gone. Ours is a loud world. We are busy, active, and ever on the move.
But the snow falls and accumulates and snugs people up inside together. It keeps us off the roads and slows us down. Sure, we burst out into it for shoveling and romping- the mere experience of going outdoors being a new kind of adventure all its own- but we return to shelter, and warmth. It's a return to what's essential really, and refreshing in that way: survival.
As we buzz about our lives, we so readily lose track of what matters. We tend to be reckless with ourselves. As human beings, we are resilient, yet fragile, but we forget our vulnerability in the day to day action of our lives and convince ourselves that we have more control than we think. The snow is a great equalizer. Ultimately, it restores us to grace.
I remember how small I am in the face of Nature, and feel grateful for my home to keep me safe and warm.
