Reckoning Time
One day after a particularly bad winter storm, a city couple who had recently moved to the country, decided to check on their elderly neighbor. The old woman did not appreciate the intrusion, in fact, she was annoyed. “I been just waiting for a slow-down storm,” she told them. “So’s I could get acquainted with myself again. February’s my reckoning time.”
In Connecticut where I live, recent winters have had more than one slow-down storm. If you happen to be captured by one of these unexpected snow holidays, make the most of it—and that does not include cleaning out a closet or catching up on work.
Whether you are house-bound alone or with others, consider this unfettered time a gift. If there is no wind to speak of, a snowfall can be a most peaceful event. Allow yourself to marvel at the airborne ballet taking place outside your window. Imagine the birds huddled deep inside the bushes and critter families burrowed and waiting. Wear your slippers all day. Light candles. Sip tea. Play lovely music. Curl up with that book you have been meaning to read. Make no phone calls. Forget the computer. And when the sun breaks through and the air glistens, grab your coat. The earth beckons.
Gaze over the contours of the blanketed landscape, the frosted trees, and the garden bushes tipped white. Take a deep breath and lift your arms over your head to absorb the energy of the moment. Place your palm over your heart.
February is reckoning time.
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