These words came to me this morning. They felt perfect for the title of an article about preparing for winter. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac predictions for the southern tier of Zone 1, it will be a very cold and snowy winter. If you happen to be a person who has a treasured winter activity, either downhill or cross country skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing, you’re probably anticipating winter joy, already!
If you do not have something that brings you joy, which is connected with snow, now is the time to start stockpiling some joy! I invite you to spend a fair amount of time reflecting upon all the things that make you feel happy, joyful, at peace and content. Each of these are slightly different from the other.
These things bring me great joy: hearing about what’s happening in my children’s lives, skiing on a blanket of sparkling snow at Prospect Mountain in Woodford, Vermont and bringing people together in circles and workshops to learn, heal and grow!
The simple act of getting together with a friend for a walk or a cup of tea makes me very happy, so does being spontaneous. I feel content reading a good book and writing in a cafe. Looking at the stars brings deep peace to my heart, mind and soul. Walking in nature and sitting in front of my candles each morning also bring deep peace and healing to me on all levels of my being. Remembering these things makes a huge difference in the quality of my life.
If you normally dread winter, decide ahead of time, that this winter will be different. Fortify yourself by stockpiling joy, peace, contentment and happiness. Give it a try. The only thing you have to lose is being unhappy for several months.