In the blink of an eye spring is here. Already it seems like ages ago we were complaining about the long, cold winter that would not let us out of her icy grip. All it took was a few degrees rise in temperature, a few warm winds, rain and some ever so precious sunshine then spring is here. Grass is greening up and crocus and tulips are starting to emerge from the oh so recently frozen soil. Take a drive through the country and so many of those cattle that spent the last few months stuck in bank barns are out bathing in the sunshine, and acting downright silly. It doesn’t get any better than this.
Stop for a moment and listen and more life reveals itself to the attentive. Bird song is exploding from every branch, bush and shrub to found. Migrants are returning to Southern Ontario by the millions in their annual frenzied rush to court, mate and produce young because programmed deep within each of us we know the clock is ticking.
We also know that the inevitable return to the weather of the last few months is a long way off so take time now to breathe deep the day. This time of the year, like no other, holds great promise of things to come; hope for quiet memories to carry us through the cold and dark times and wonderful anticipation that warm weather and all it offers to every bit of life around us.
Breathe deep the day and look close at the buds emerging from your favourite shrub. Take a moment and put your hand on the still damp and dry grass but feel for the growth soon to burst forth. Crouch down by your garden and imagine all that is happening out of sight but know that life is there. Feel that rich, damp soil as it runs through your fingers. Soil that holds all that is needed for the plants you lovingly place in it to thrive and blossom.
Breathe deep the day and stroll through the woods. Don’t hike along with the purpose of getting to the end of the trail but meander and wander slowly through the silent and awe inspiring trees. Place your hand on the bark and feel for the sap flowing. Feel for the insect life inside soon to emerge. Feel the age and majesty and the life that is beneath the cool, hard bark.
Breathe deep the day and sit among the birds around us. Quietly watch whatever species is close by as they move with purpose and intent. Get to know your avian neighbours as they set up house in anxious anticipation of bringing more life into the world. Observe the rushing around and nest building going on in a nearby nest box as whoever claimed it flies back and forth with often surprising bits of grassy treasure to stuff inside. Imagine that nest being formed and the eggs soon to occupy it. Precious eggs that will shortly hatch to become needy, demanding, and beautiful new life.
Breathe deep the day as you watch the sunrise and know that life throughout the world each experience this same moment each day. A moment of wonderment and joy of what the new day may bring. Feel the warmth of the life giving sun on your face as the day progresses and watch the clouds of spring as they roll across the sky in a way often repeated but never to be seen exactly the same way twice.
Breathe deep the day as you watch the sunset ending a series of incredible moments woven together with the threads of a single day and simply appreciate all this life we are given. Spring is here and it is the perfect time to breathe deep the day.
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