Learning to let the seasons, and the moods, be

Seasons are a vital process, as are our mood cycles.

Looking back at the summer just past, I remember how energetic I felt which was mirrored by the thriving Bavarian countryside around me. I would go for long walks in the vineyards surrounding my university halls and smile under a roof of rich green leaves. Sitting in the city centre by the riverside with the sun warming my bare shoulders would make me feel alive. The air smelt of honeysuckle, barbecue and hope.

The height of summer is enjoyed so acutely as we have a dull but persistent awareness that it is temporary: winter is soon to arrive. In the same way, during every moment of happiness or optimism we know that it will soon falter, as life will inevitably deal us a blow. Yet this knowledge makes these intangible moments so precious, allowing us to value them more; a good mood would not be so intense if it could be plucked and hoarded. 

Aesthetically, summer is colourful and radiant, which is contagious; sun-kissed skin and shiny hair makes us feel more attractive. It doesn’t mean, however, that we should lose confidence when the tan fades and the winter pounds creep on. Take a tree, for example: the branches during whatever season deserve to be admired, regardless of the colour (or even lack) of leaves. 

We appreciate nature throughout the year and enjoy observing its constant development but are all too quick to judge ourselves during difficult moments and fail to notice the beauty of every phase of mood: aren't we also growing during such times? 

This leads to my recent realisation that colder months or lower moods should be accepted in their own way. A frozen lake in the winter has a sense of stillness and shy beauty about it. The ice indisputably has sinister connotations and needs to be treated with caution and the same care needs to be taken with a faltering mood but, left to its own devices, the ice will eventually melt by the first cautious sun rays during the seasonal change. I sometimes go through my own so-called icy mindset but, during such times, I tread carefully and try to accept the present state without rushing myself to change how I feel. 

Seasons are cyclical just like our moods are and both should be accepted during whatever phase. Besides, there is something alluringly beautiful about that still icy lake. 

Photography: my own 

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AngelStarCreations, Divine Timing and Patience ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTA7kSQAlkg