I have become adept at acceptance for the most part. I accept the present moment as it is. I know that what I resist persists. There is one area; however, where I fall short. When every cell in my body aches for the balmy days of warmth and light, I have a difficult time accepting the endless cold and snow and wind. My mind is telling me that it should be spring and it is spring in those places where I would prefer to be. I must be content where I am in this moment even though I see trees outside my window still barren of leaves. I see the frozen tips of bulbs that had attempted to emerge, only to be viciously bitten by the frost.
I know I have no right to complain. Complaint is one of our human failings. Grumbling about a situation only gives it more power to deepen our suffering. As I brace for yet another snow storm, I remind myself of all that I have to be thankful for – a roof over my head, warm home and warm clothing, food in my pantry, and toilet paper. We must all find ways to channel the hindrances to our lives over which we have no control, into something meaningful. Today I will continue to immerse myself in the planning of my garden and in cleaning. I will continue to ensure that the bird feeders are full and the birdbath remains unfrozen. I will sow more seeds in pots, indoors. I will take advantage of my forced isolation to read and learn. The hours will pass, as they always do, and the days and the weeks and the months. I can choose acceptance of what is and know that the situation will eventually change. Many of us may feel alone and isolated at this time, but we are all in this together.
