Winter Reflection

Since the weather is transitioning towards sunnier spring days I wanted to reflect on my walks I took during the snowstorm in January. There is a unique stillness outside when there is snow surrounding everything. When everything was covered in a blanket my walks were quiet and I felt more at peace. I took my time, partially because I was trying not to slip, but also because I felt less rushed during my snow walks. Maybe it had something to do with classes being cancelled, or just because the noise of cars zooming by had gone away. I like to think it is the latter. Everyone had transitioned to walking to avoid using their cars and the typical background hum of engines was now quiet. 

Something I noted was how snow has an effect of simplifying a landscape. Everything felt clean and soft. The concrete that surrounds so much of the environment I am normally in was more hidden away which I liked. Even the sounds were different. My footsteps had a quiet crunch when the snow was still fresh. The ice was not as kind to me and even took my feet out from under me on a couple of occasions. I can also remember the cold air on my cheeks. The warm air that is coming here now overwhelms me at times when I am out in nature, and sends me retreating back inside my house. 

Looking back on those walks now a month later in a different season, I can better appreciate the snow. It’s funny how when it is cold I want it to be warm and vice versa. I have found myself wishing that the cold would return so I could spend a little more time in the snow after having this realization. The beauty of nature does not only come when it is spring/summer and everything is blooming and I think this is the first winter I have had this mindset. But for now I will be enjoying the lovely Texas spring.