Rebirth and Rejuvenation

This is the time of year when I have spring fever.  It can be a dangerous emotion to feel, given that northern Illinois can be 60 degrees one day, and then turn cold and snowy the next.  Having just experienced a short lived warm weekend, I managed to get outside and get a leg up on things.  March is a perfect time of year to trim climates, prune spirea and pull those weeds that really never seem to die during the winter. Although the approach of spring does signify the sewing of seeds, it also is a time to come forth with new ideas, and to reflect on your emotional and physical well-being.

I am not much of a churchgoer, but I like what the Lenten season represents as spring approaches. Whether you are a believer or not, it’s hard not to admire the practice of Lent. I see a direct correlation  between hope eternal with the coming of spring and the Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ as Lent concludes.

Christians who observe Lent typically make a commitment to give up something, or dedicate themselves during this time to self-reflection, which usually translates into self-improvement. My idea of Lent was to be a kinder, gentler version of myself, rather than depriving myself of my favorite foods which seemed to be the typical thing to do.  I had goals such as not snapping at my husband, doing one nice thing daily for someone, or volunteering weekly for the food pantry.  This ongoing dedication to improvement and mindfulness results in a rebirth of sorts, especially if you stick with it.  To acknowledge the experience of practicing such mindfulness during Lent, our Church would  “re-baptized” parishioners to signify this rebirth of themselves.  It was a wonderful symbolic gesture for me and one I think of often. Spring helps us to realize lessons as precious as this. Reflection and self-improvement lead to a resurrection of sorts.  Trust me, you will will feel it.

This awakening or being “reborn”  seems to be everywhere during the spring, especially if you live in colder climates. The days become longer, the birds start chirping earlier in the morning, daffodils and tulips poke their heads through the ground and the occasional whiff of someone barbecuing fills the air.  This blossoming vitality makes me want to be vivacious as well – both inside and out.  There is the burst of energy. Do you feel it?

Get outside, take a walk, clean the garage, hose down all your screens, clean up sticks and debris in your yard.  Wash your windows, replace drab linens with colorful tones and starting wearing your brightest of brights that are in your closet.

Take this spring season as a chance to participate in some community service, tending simultaneously to your environment as well as yourself. Help write the chapter of new beginnings this spring in creating positive outcomes for all areas of nature, and our health.  Reflection and hope – this is what spring represents. And if I every lose sight of that, I refer to one of my most favorite poems by William Wordsworth.  This poem will keep you mindful.