Inspiration from Yoko Ono: Seasons Pass
September 27, 2009
*
Spring passes and one remembers one’s innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one’s exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one’s reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one’s perseverance.
*
Fall has always been my favorite season. Maybe it’s the fiery colors of the trees, or the refreshing weather after a long hot summer. Maybe I just like it because Hunter and I both have October birthdays. Whatever it is… the autumnal equinox is my personal happy time.
This year, we’ll be moving to Vermont during Peak Fall Foliage Season. I can hardly wait to see Nature displaying her loveliest gowns of orange, red, and yellow across those wide open spaces dotted with barns, cattle and steeples (maybe even a moose or two). Knowing that we’re arriving in the Fall only adds to the excitement of this major life change for our family.
But the thing is, Fall doesn’t last forever. Before long it will be uncomfortably cold (at least for a tropical baby, like me). Soon after that, it will snow… and get colder… and snow some more… and get darker earlier… and snow again… and get even colder… and just when you think it might be over, it will snow again!
Winter watches from the sidelines as Autumn does her little dance, showing off, and posing for pictures. But when that’s over, Winter settles in to stay for a while… whether you like it or not. She doesn’t care if you think a White Christmas is beautiful, or if you like winter sports, or if the cold wind cuts to the depths of your soul every time you try to take a breath. She doesn’t care… about anything.
Winter has to come because everything in Nature needs to rest. All the excitement of Spring, the exuberance of Summer, and the fiery passion of Fall must be followed by a contemplative time for Nature to regroup.
Winter looms.
This is true not only in Nature, but in my heart. I wish I could say that my excitement, exuberance, and fiery passion will stay with me indefinitely… but I know better. I have just the right combination of a little depression, some mild bipolar tendencies, and a Libra habit of swaying like a pendulum across my spectrum of emotions.
I know it’s coming, and it won’t care that we are excited about our new life. It won’t care that we will need our energy, enthusiasm, and motivation more than ever to create the life we want.
When Winter settles into my heart, she will weigh me down. She will point out all the things that can and will go wrong, and she will try her best to make me lose hope. She will want me to hibernate, curl up in a ball, and worry myself sick. She likes that.
Why am I telling you this?
I guess because I know it won’t be all fun and games. I know there will be huge challenges and emotional roller coasters to go through. I could follow one of the “rules” of blogging and write only about the good times because, after all, readers show up to get inspired and motivated, not bummed out by reality checks. But what good is it if I only show you one side of the journey… only the joyous side?
If the Fall Foliage stayed all year long, we would no longer find it beautiful and precious. It is because the seasons pass that we can appreciate the splendor of autumn, and it is because emotions sway that we value joyous occasions with so much enthusiasm.
It is important to remember that nothing lasts. The good times, the bad times, our joys, our sorrows… they come and go. When we are aware of this, we are able to make the most of our happy times while they last, and take comfort in the knowledge that our sad times will soon be over.
Which is your favorite season? Do you try to avoid winters of the heart? Is it possible to avoid them? Would you rather read only about the good times?
Related posts:
- Inspiration from Kahlil Gibran: On Joy & Sorrow
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- Inspiration from Dr. Seuss: The Waiting Place
- Inspiration from Pema Chodron: Everyone and Everything
- Inspiration from Ralph Waldo Emerson: A New Day
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Winter make us appreciate Springs and summers all the more. Without them it’s hard to imagine appreciating that first warm day of T-shirt weather.
It’s the same metaphorically for our lives. The sad times should make us appreciate the happy time all the more.
Gordie Rogers´s last blog ..Saturday Spew and Shout Out: September 26th 2009.
Spring is my favorite season. Winter is my least favorite.
Lisis,
Autumn is my favorite season also. I think it’s seeing the trees change, cool nights, mixtures of warm and cold days, and just a general feeling of nature preparing to rest.
Is it possible to avoid winter’s of the heart? No, I don’t think anyone can avoid them completely – and I also think they can come anytime. We can listen to our heart, and when we do – when we really listen – we’ll know when it’s time for us, just like the seasons, to change. Maybe that means just accepting these moments and knowing they will pass. Maybe it means actively doing something to shake it. Maybe it means sharing with someone else where we’re at.
What you’re doing – sharing it all – the good and the “not so good” – Lisis, this is the right place for you to be. And that’s with however much or little you choose to share. Anyway, I’ll be here, good or bad. And I will because you’re real – and that’s what makes you so deeply beautiful…
Lance´s last blog ..Sunday Thought For The Day
This too shall pass…right?
Luckily we have almost gone through winter here in south africa, and its spring and almost hot and beautiful and green. I’m going to have a long winter this year though, since in 2 months Ill be in the middle of the cold in amsterdam!
Enjoy the fall Lisis
Diggy – Upgradereality.com´s last blog ..Travel,Adventure,Lifestyle Design,Self Improvement and Passion
Well I am going to tell you Vermont is a beautiful state. You know you need to look at this as a new beginning. People only grow when there is change so open your heart and mind.
This is a great adventure for you and opportunity. You will get use to dealing with those snowy winter days.
Best of luck to you.
BunnygotBlog´s last blog ..Earth’s Own Little Universe
Hi, Lisis!
I can absolutely relate to what you wrote here. I, too, love autumn. I’m a late October baby, so fall is when I really shine. It’s like I come alive with the leaves on the trees, the early-retiring golden sun, the crisp morning air, and the animals who frantically scurry to and fro burying nuts, readying themselves for winter.
I also relate to the winter blues you wrote about. Whether or not you get those every year, or expect them to be worse this year because of the changes you’re going through… there are many of us who are weighed down by winter’s seeming callousness. But as you said, we need winter as much as we need spring, summer and fall.
The good news is, you’re so close to me now (western NY to Vermont isn’t a bad drive!), and even Nadia, that we could descend upon you and have a happy winter party! (Look at me thinking out loud here…)
It will be okay, and I love that you shared this side of yourself. I felt like I was reading my own thoughts and feelings.
Thank you.
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s last blog ..Feeling Prosperous
Really great post! I love the honesty about winter… It pulls me down too but I’m hoping that this year will be different… My favorite season is fall. In fact, I wrote about it here: http://www.positivelypresent.com/2009/09/14-reasons-to-fall-in-love-with-fall.html
Positively Present´s last blog ..words to live by: dare you to move
@ Gordie: I completely agree with you. I think the sad times provide just enough contrast for us to really enjoy and appreciate the happy times, instead of taking them for granted. I am reminded of Khalil Gibran’s Joy & Sorrow: “The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.”
@ JR: Spring is my second favorite… although after my first long Vermont winter, I may come to appreciate Spring even more!
@ Lance: I’m glad you will be here whether I’m posting pep talks or singin’ the blues. I know it too, and it brings me such comfort to know that THIS is a place where all feelings are welcome… where we can laugh together, and cry together, and take turns being strong for each other. You and a few other readers always keep me going when I think I have nothing left to give. Thank you for always being there (here).
@ Diggy: Oh, no! You timed this all wrong! Should’ve planned a trip like David Cain… after Summer in Canada, he’s going to New Zealand, for a SECOND Summer! Which reminds me, if I ever have enough money, I think I’ll spend a year traveling the world during Fall seasons. One whole year of Fall… I might O.D. on beauty!
@ Bunny: This is definitely a new beginning and growing opportunity for me. We’ve moved every couple of years, but it was never a personal challenge since we moved to Costa Rica, Austin, and Georgia. THIS… snow… is a big test of my strength since I’m usually quite the weakling when it gets cold. But I feel ready for it now; I want to make it through a long, cold, snowy winter and come out stronger on the other side. Some people train for triathlons… I guess I’m “training” for hibernation!
@ Megan: There is something about being an October baby that makes Fall even more magical. The weather starts to cool, leaves start to turn, people start decorating for Halloween, and Thanksgiving… it’s just a festive time. I always get a little nervous when times are fabulous, ’cause I know the pendulum swings. I know life tends towards equilibrium. I really am comforted knowing that you and Nadia both are within a day’s drive from where I’ll be. I’m foreseeing a blogger’s retreat!
@ Dani: Thanks for reminding me about your Fall post! I love that one… I need to link to it above! And Winter, well… we will just have to get through it together, won’t we?
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“Just remember, in the Winter…far beneath the bitter snows..lies the seed, that with the sun’s love, in the Spring, becomes the rose.” ~Bette Midler
And so the wheel of the year turns, and Fall slips into Winter. The trees grow bare, and the clothing grows thick. Men and animals hunker down, and focus on survival. Thoughts turn inwards, and reflection and introspection become the orders of the day. Rather than slip into melancholy, this is a time to evaluate the year that has passed, and plan for the year ahead. Analyze what went right, and what went wrong, and chart a new course for the year ahead. Make internal corrections, and align yourself with your highest purpose, your truest self. The festival of Yule comes in the darkest Winter, and reminds us that even in the darkest night, the Light cannot be conquered. We light fires in the hearth, and decorate a tree with lights, and burn candles to celebrate the fact that light cannot be vanquished. We spend time with family and friends, and share gifts to warm the hearts and connect with Love. In doing so, we remember that Love and Light are the same, and we bring it forth into the world when we share it with each other.
In doing so, we recognize that Winter, far from being cold and cruel, actually serves to bring us closer together. For this is a time when we must work together, when we must come together, when we must turn and face the danger as a unified whole. We must depend on our loved ones to survive, and so we celebrate our families and our friends…our tribe…as we help each other overcome the hardships of Winter.
As for the Winters of the Heart, well, those are warmed by the fires of friendship and love. And rest assured that when they come, we’ll all be there to keep you safe and warm.
Here are my answers, short and sweet.
Which is your favorite season? Do you try to avoid winters of the heart? Is it possible to avoid them? Would you rather read only about the good times?
Fall is my favorite season.
I am in the middle of a winter of the heart. They last longer and are more fierce if I try to avoid them.
I like the good with the bad. It is reality and truth that I feel drawn to. Thank you for sharing yours.
Jill´s last blog ..Two goodbyes
My favorite season is summer and then fall comes in a close second. I think we’re the same person, because I really really dislike winter and the cold that comes with it.
Man, Chicago winters (shuddering just thinking about the imminent blizzards soon to
arrive).
I’d read your blog all year round, so yes, I’d be glad to read about the bad times
But please don’t write a post about how awesome winter is (because it’s not).
John´s last blog ..Why Quality is Far More Important than Quantity
@ Jay: You just melted my heart… again. You know how some people type LOL as a response, and occasionally actually laugh out loud. Well, I need one for “instantly shed a tear” (ISAT?) or something.
What a beautiful comment… it really should be a whole post. It’s not just your lovely prose that stirred me, but the most convincing argument for looking forward to winter that I’ve ever heard. (I know, that was crappy sentence construction but, dammit, I’m still packing!).
“Winter serves to bring (our tribe) together.”
I love that. And I hope that everyone in this tribe knows this is true. I know I can rely on many of you to help me through my emotional winters, and I want you all to know that you can always count on me to be there for yours. My shoulder was made to be cried on.
“…the fires of friendship and love.” Jay, you’re killin’ me!
@ Jill: I’m so sorry you are going through a winter of the heart right now. I know you realize it will pass, and that it’s a vital part of the spectrum of emotions… but those winters are so hard to get through sometimes. If you ever want to chat, or vent, or anything, you can e me at MyQuestForBalance@gmail.com. In the meantime, I’m sending you huge virtual hugs!!
@ John: Ah, Chicago winters… so you KNOW, better than I do, what I’m about to be up against. Hm. I’ll try to spare you the “Winter is so Beautiful” posts. Although, you may have to deal with one, if we have a White Christmas and Hunter is out building his first sure ’nuff snowman (he’s only built the kind that have dirt and grass rolled up in them, since we only get like an inch of snow in Georgia).
But if you see that post, just smile knowingly, aware that a week or two from then I’ll be sick and tired of White ANYTHING.
Hi Lisis,
Yesterday I was telling someone that how I wish more people would be honest with what they are feeling or experiencing. What you called “winter’s of the heart” are natural and how I wished more people would talk about those times. Those dark times is what helps us grow. It is like the whole thing about how people talk about how Jesus resurrected. Well…in order to get to the resurrection, you have to go through the crucification first.
So be true to who you are and what you feel. No one likes to be scammed or lied to…so just be you and have no worries. You can count on me (and others) to be by your side as you go through your journey.
And as for Megan’s idea….that sounds cool to me.
Nadia – Happy Lotus´s last blog ..A Monk, Bowing and Palms Coming Together
Lisis, I am new to your blog and I recently wrote about some of your posts because they inspired me so much. This post does too. I love the idea of a winter of the heart – I understand what that means. Personally, I want to read all of it. If a blog is only positive, it starts to lose its authenticity. I look forward to reading anything you want to write. I didn’t experience real winter until I went to college and graduate school and, as I’m sure you will discover, it was such an achievement to make it through and actually enjoy a bit of it. I’d love to become part of your supportive community – the love pouring through in your comments is so beautiful.
Daphne´s last blog ..More Inspiration
Hi Lisis,
Thanks for this post. Having lived through more than few Nebraska and Minnesota winters, when I was growing up and through my 20s, made me appreciate so many things.
It made me realize that people continue to live fully, with love and excitement, even when it is -30F outdoors (or -70F with wind chill). It made me realize that it only takes a few more layers to go out and do fun things. It made me realize how precious life really is when spring returned and leaves started to sprout again. It absolutely amazed me that anything living thing could endure those harsh winters.
You will adapt and you will thrive. I just know it!
And, no, I’d rather read about the good with the bad, Lisis. I appreciate your words today. It makes me feel more “normal”. In fact, right this moment I’m feeling physically horrible (there’s honesty for you!). But I know there will be a day soon where I won’t. So, maybe I’m waiting for my spring, too?
Thanks, Lisis, and have a great week.
Lori´s last blog ..Start A Blog
When you arrive see the trees and their flaming glory welcoming you. Commit to reaching out for help and support when you do feel low. It’s so normal what you are going through and it’s the exact reason so many don’t pack their stuff and walk out the door and move on.
Remind yourself This too shall pass. Always has and always will.
It’s all good!
@ Nadia: You know, I was just talking to Jeff about this… how I could grow my readership by focusing on more generic, abstract, and uplifting posts and omitting some of the more personal or “depressing” (for lack of a better word) ones. But that’s just not me. I can’t pretend that everything is perfect all the time… it isn’t. Not for me, not for anyone. Some days are just plain sucky and hard to get through… THAT is life. The important lesson for us all is that we get through them, “this too shall pass.” If we lean on each other in our time of need, we’ll make it safely to the other side.
I would rather have a handful of readers with whom I can share the full spectrum of life experiences than have an audience of thousands for whom I have to pretend life is always a bowl of cherries.
@ Daphne: I am so grateful that you are here… that you have chosen to be a part of this Q4B tribe. I can tell by your writing that you share your heart openly and are full of compassion. There is always room for anyone with love and compassion in this tribe!
@ Lori: OK… first: you are not allowed to talk about negative temperatures or the words “wind chill” on this blog. I’m getting cold just reading your comment!
Nah, really, I’m sure I will survive the winter; just as you will get through this crappy day. I am glad that this post helped you feel more “normal” because that’s exactly my point. I don’t want to model an example of 100% joy all the time because it’s irresponsible. No one can achieve that, so it can leave certain readers feeling left out of the “happy” clan. I want you and everyone to know that I have my fair share of challenges and awful days… but I always get through them (usually with the help of wonderful friends). Everything will pass, so don’t ever give up hope. Spring will come soon enough.
@ Tess: Oh, I am planning to revel in some Autumn splendor when I get there. I’m hoping to store up inspiration to last me through the winter. I’ve also gotten quite good at reaching out to others when I need a life line. For the most part, I’ve done it on email, or phone calls… one on one. But I would like to bring a little more of my hidden side to light, even here. When you shine a light on the shadows, they aren’t so scary anymore. Maybe other people who live in the shadows will be inspired to share their dark moments as well.
Fall is by far my favorite season… partly for the sheer beauty of it, partly because most of the people I love were born during this season (or close to it, like LLL & D). Of course, I say this now, after returning from a beautiful “summer” week in Cancun… and I’ve never really lived through a snowy winter anywhere. : ) I actually do look forward to seeing Vermont in the fall, or even in the winter. I think it will be quite magical (as long as I don’t have to shovel anyone’s driveway!). Think fireplaces, cozy blankets, good books, and hot cocoa!
Alison | Quest for Balance´s last blog ..Inspiration from Yoko Ono: Seasons Pass
Great post Lisis,
This particulary caught my eye as my last post was inspired by Yoko Ono!
Really beautifully written post.
Jen x
Growing up in the UK it was often hard to distinguish the seasons. A bit colder in the winter, more daylight in the summer. Summer was always my favourite because the other seasons were usually grey and damp. I exaggerate a little, but there were definitely few extremes.
Since moving to Eastern
Ian | Quantum Learning´s last blog ..The secret of happiness
ooops … pressed submit too early …..
Since moving to Eastern Europe, where the seasons are more marked, I’ve come to appreciate all the seasons. I don’t try to avoid the Winter freeze (internal or external) but welcome it as a time to slow down and prepare for the coming Spring.
And generally in life I prefer to experience the ups and downs, the good and the bad. In fact it’s only our habit of labelling things good and bad that make them so. Otherwise they are just the natural flow of life.
Ian | Quantum Learning´s last blog ..The secret of happiness
@ Ali: We’re definitely putting you on snow shovel duty… that’s how you’ll pay your room and board.
@ Jen: Thanks! I love the synchronicity of our Yoko Ono inspirations!
@ Ian: Ha! Did you get a little trigger-happy? Just can’t wait to send those comments, huh? I love what you said though, there really is no good or bad way to feel, or experience to go through… they are all just part of the natural flow. So true!
I don’t know if I really have a favorite season. Like you, I am seeing how quickly one leaves before the next comes, and how it leaves, too.
You relate your feelings with grace and honesty. I love to read about feelings, especially with grace and honesty. I do believe that it is only by paying attention to the difficult emotions that we find true beauty, as painful as it can be sometimes.
May this journey into fall and winter bring you calm at the end of chaos.
Lisis!
You have read my mind…..no , you have read my soul!
Ups and downs are such an important part of our lives, being honest with others and showing our fragility gives everyone else permission and acknowledgment.
Keep it up and know we all feel it, feel for each other and feel for ourselves as well
and yes….this too will pass……
regarding the weather, I have lived in a climate that would be considered ‘perfect’ by many, warm non humid summers the hottest is 30c, cool winters about 18-20c. blue skies every day, mainly only rained at night, But after a while, I craved winter!! and the wind, and the rain, and cloudy days, and trees that had colour in the autumn. I craved the time to be inside and feel ok about it, because it is too cold outside.
So I went to Canada and had two really cold winters, it was fantastic, then I travelled through Indonesia with the humidity and heat for months, finally I moved to south of Australia and am experiencing the windiest time ever and so much rain I have flood plains on my doorstep (slight exaggeration), last summer we had extremes of 45c over xmas!
Now I am hoping to move back north again where it is warm and balmy all year.
I no longer know what season I like, but I do realise how they affect our moods and can hinder or enhance the ability to do things we love.
Enjoy your winter, it will be awesome and new and wonderful.
You have my devoted readership, no matter what
For me the looming winter acts as another accelerator, another deadline or kick in the pants. So this is the positive side. The negative – I hate cold
Yavor´s last blog ..Mark McManus Interview, The Muscle Hacker Shares His Wisdom On Building Muscle And Carving Out A Six Pack
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