Why Do We Wish Away Winter?

Here in Denver, CO we’ve had a taste of what people call “False Spring.” It’s 65 degree, the sun is shining, everyone has flocked to one of our amazing parks to walk their golden doodle and yap with their people.

On a random Tuesday in February when the sun is hitting my face, I somehow no longer believe in seasonal depression or depression at all. I find myself thinking “why can’t I feel like this all the time?” or “wow, I want Spring & Summer immediately.” So when I went on one of my usual walks with my soul-dog, I kept asking myself this: why do we wish away winter?

I understand winter brings colder weather, shorter days and not as much sunshine. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a real thing, so I understand anyone who deals with that. But instead of wishing away a season, what if we embraced it instead? Colder months are meant for rest, rejuvenation, and rebuilding in anticipation of spring and summer.

I love winter, especially in Colorado. Temperatures drop and snow falls often. Maybe it’s because I now live in a place that is equipped for this kind of weather round the clock, but I’ve found myself truly embracing it. I don’t rush from place to place, I don’t fill my weeks with endless plans, I find myself slowing down and embracing the stillness and the quiet.

Instead of rushing to the next season, what if we all embraced this last bit of winter? The ability to sit in a more restorative state of mind and reflect on what’s to come. There’s something beautiful to me about surrendering to the stillness of winter in anticipation of spring and warmer, longer days.