The most common use of the word “winter” describes the season marked by cold weather and bare trees. During Mother Nature’s winter season, we are forced to retreat inside and many things stop growing. The characteristics of a winter season can show up in other parts of our lives too. We let certain things go dormant and experience winters in our careers, relationships, health, and even in our hearts. During these types of winters our focus has to shift from growing to hibernating and healing. It is always difficult to go through times of winter, but it gives us a chance to rebirth something even more beautiful.
The last day of this winter season has already passed, but it seems as if the cold weather is staying with us a bit longer. If you’re coming to the end of any kind of winter, here are 8 questions to ask yourself before temperatures rise. I posted some of these questions last year, but my answers have definitely changed. Have yours?
- What stopped growing for you this winter?
- Do you want to see all, some, or none of it grow back?
- Was your home a place you wanted to retreat to during your winter?
- Who kept you warm during your coldest days?
- What will you do to prepare for the next winter?
- What do you want to plant in your life next?
- Will you have the desire and energy to care for a new blossom?
- How has this winter better equipped you to serve others?