I’ll never complain about there not being a bunch of snow in January, but if you’re going to replace it with rain, part of me would prefer the white stuff. These January thaws have typically ravaged my emotional state, and at this point there’s not much more to ravage than tatters and tears. Better to greet the day with the jolt of frozen winter to which we are accustomed. This should be a time for contemplation. For quiet, snow-bound ruminations coupled with a cup of tea and a candle.
How weird to long for winter while in the very midst of it. How strange to even weakly wish for snow. Yet there it is. The heart knows what it needs and what it wants. It puts me in mind of Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo’s ‘Winter Songs’ as heard here:
This is gorgeous music, and tranquil, like the winter can, at its kindest, be. Hints of its tumultuous power sprinkle the edges, bits of snow fluttering in crystalline form, catching the light like floating diamond dust, but a stark calm is the main take-away I get from these selections. The early days of January carry their own majesty and wonder. Winter is still fresh enough and new to be somewhat welcome. There is serenity in the snow, serenity in this music, and a sense of peace to this moment. Let it stay for a while. Let us rest for a bit. Let us weather the winter together.
