The season of slumber ended as it began: with a meditation in the dark of night.
As I started the session, Andy came into the living room to crack open a window. He returned to the kitchen as I settled into deeper breathing, and the happy sounds of a pasta sauce coming together could be heard. Such noise was a comfort – a glad drone of background commotion that didn’t phase me, even in meditative mode. In fact, it was a comfort.
One of the things I longed for all those years ago when I was alone was the simple presence of a partner, the safety and warmth of having someone you loved in the same home, going through the same winter’s night, and offering support when needed. As the sounds of the stove carried in from the kitchen, I continued my meditation, and soon was lost in the breath.
A calm and cooling shift of air floated in through the cracked window – outside, a thunderstorm was thrillingly beckoning the arrival of spring. Winter would depart in subdued grace, a new old friend whose presence made hygge possible, and with whom I’ve reconciled after years of misunderstanding. In a strange way, I will miss it, even though we will meet again when the summer sun tires.
For now, spring is at hand, and with a flourish we turn this blog over to a new season.
