The Gift That Winter Brings

"And don't think the garden loses its ecstasy in winter. It's quiet but the roots are down there riotous. " - Rumi

This is such a profound quote today on so many levels.....on the most obvious, our high was 20 degrees today, there is comfort as you look at the bareness of the landscape and know that the roots
are energizing for growth come spring....and though it might not seem possible now, spring will come again.

I also think of those humans who are in the "winter" of their lives, they may have lost their physical beauty to some, but their "roots", their stories are full of life and vigor.  Their "roots", their memories are there for the sharing if we take the time to listen and learn from them.

One of the most beautiful springs I can ever remember was after the blizzard of 1993......yes, in March, Alabama had 18 inches of snow and temperatures as cold as those we have had today.  That winter, the rest that all our plants experienced gave us a profusion
of gorgeous flowers that spring and a bountiful harvest of fruits and vegetables.

So if the cold wind howling at your door has you depressed, and you shiver as you look out your windows.....just remind yourself,
this spring might just be one your most beautiful ones ever.....mother nature is resting and storing up energy, there is a riot taking place for our benefit. The gift that winter brings......the return of spring.