“I am going to try to pay attention to the spring. I am going to look around at all the flowers, and look up at the hectic trees. I am going to close my eyes and listen.” ― Anne Lamott, Writer
You may be reading this sitting inside a cafe, at your kitchen bench, perhaps curled up on your couch, palms warm from hugging a hot mug. And if you’re like us, you might be looking out the window, in wonder at the torrents of rain lashing against the glass panes.
Is this Spring?
Then the next morning, you step outside and notice the lawn is suddenly lush and tall, the tree with bare branches now adorned with green buds. You might catch a waft of soft fragrance from the freshly bloomed lemon flowers. There has been a quiet and dramatic blossoming - this is what we know to be Spring. And it begins with the cascading rain; the deep exhale of the sky.
Because there cannot be renewal without release. Like tears, the water seeps into the soil of Winter and resurrects a new season of growth. The sky is cleared of its grey blanket and the sun shines through. It is this making of new space that fuels creativity, and creative energy.
Nature is always seeking for balance. As we observe this transformation of the Earth, it is as good a time as any to remember that we, humans, are in animal bodies; we are inseparable from nature, because we are part of it. We too, can shed the coat of winter, release, and renew.
So recognise what is old: what is cobwebbed in your body and your mind, in your habits and in your surroundings. Perhaps bring awareness to that negative thought pattern you see yourself clinging to, or clean out your wardrobe and donate those shirts, dresses, pants that you have not touched for months. Experience being honest, in acknowledging what matters, and what doesn’t. Release the inessentials with a sigh. And allow yourself fresh space, this Spring, to create more of the moments you love.
For it is these moments that make up the memories of our days, our months, our years.
What will you release, and what memories will you make in the Spring days ahead?
About the Author: Lucy Lawes is an advocate for mindful living.
