An Unhurried Awakening into the Season of Spring

The season of spring can be one of inspiring beauty for all of our senses. Perhaps we notice trees presenting brightly colored blossoms, bees hovering over lavender, the nearly forgotten sunshine promising warmth and light, or the sound of croaking frogs as evening sets. What we may not recognize, however, is the pace at which Mother Nature transforms one season into another. Although it may seem like the sights and sounds of spring emerge overnight, it is a remarkably slow and gentle process.

In today’s world, most folks have lost touch with the cycles of nature. The first sign the spring season, for many, is the bikini display at their nearby department store, or perhaps the cellophane-wrapped baskets full of plastic Easter eggs, stuffed bunnies and cheap chocolate at a shopper’s every turn.

Whether winter was a cascade of everyday to-do’s intensified by holiday demands, or a time for purposeful hibernation, the joyful contagion of spring can be a curse as well as a blessing. In other words, if the daily activities are already filled to the brim and now it’s time to add a major spring cleaning to the list, springing forward can be stressful indeed. Oh, and what about the kids’ baseball practice schedule, the homestretch of the school year activities, the Easter break vacation to visit family, and planning that last three day weekend at the end of May that’s supposed to be well utilized in the name of fun?

Another approach to spring can be a tender, unhurried awakening into this season of renewal. Perhaps you begin each day by setting your alarm for 15 or 30 minutes earlier to allow a slower awakening on a literal sense. Stay in bed and take a few deep breaths. If your mind wanders across the day’s agenda, take a few more deep breaths and whisper, “I have plenty of time. All is in Divine Order.”

Many of us believe in have-to’s on our to-do list, but it is wise to remember that these are actually choices; conscious or not. A quiet, meditative state is a good time to review your activities.

• What do I really want to do with my time?
• What brings me joy?
• What can I eliminate or delegate to others?

As we move through each day, the sacred gifts of spring can replenish our soul if we let them. Feel the chirping, breathe in the warmth, laugh into the rain, hear the softness, taste the resurrection of Life within and around you! You, as well as spring, are rebirthing anew. A valuable gift you can give yourself is the time to emerge with grace and gentleness.

With a loving perspective, ask yourself: “What would I expect of a newborn babe? How do I nurture my garden? In what ways can I placidly usher myself into the spring season?” Then, with Mother Nature as your role model, you can make the transformation into spring with an inspiring beauty that shines from within.

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"Just living is not enough" said the butterfly, "one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower."
 ~Hans Christian Andersen