When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade! When March Gives You Snow, Go Snowshoeing!
By Hanna Rustin, COTA/L
While much of the Midwest clamored for the disappearance of snow, a couple of Solidago friends and I took advantage of the mid-March snowfall. That Sunday afternoon we strapped on our rented snowshoes with no destination in mind. The only parameter was to be back within our two-hour limit.
We had a map, but did not truly consult it until our expiration time neared. We were free – free to roam, free to get lost, free to just be.
Image description: Canopy of trees on a snowshoeing trail in Minnesota in March, with snow beginning to accumulate as light snow falls on the branches.
The snowshoeing experience was new to all of us. We had all wanted to try it out, but it took one person choosing a date, another a place, and another to inquire about rentals. I am an Arizona native. I have lived in Minnesota for nearly seven years and am still in awe and wonder of the seasonal patterns. While winter may seem to drone on for some, especially during one of the snowiest winters on record, I have learned that Spring will come when it is ready. It is a reminder that we are not in control of our life’s timeline. In the meantime, we are invited to patiently recognize the subtle signs of the transitional period and seize the opportunities right in front of us. This might mean trying out a new leisure activity or reconnecting with an old friend.
What new leisure activities have you been wanting to try? What barriers are preventing you?
On our afternoon trek, I was walking through an especially deep patch of snow when, suddenly, I walked right out of one of my snowshoes. My initial reaction was frustration; I am the type of person that likes to feel competent on the first try. After taking a deep breath, this displaced snowshoe was a reminder to slow down, regroup, and recognize the majestic winter wonderland around me. Wasn’t that the point of being out here anyway?
What recent reminders have you had in your life to slow down, regroup, and recognize the beauty around you?
At another point on our snowshoeing adventure, we tried to identify our location relative to the rental shop. We knew where we needed to go. In fact, we could see the road, but between us and the road stood a fence. What did we do next? Well, you better believe we slipped off our snow gear and climbed that fence! There was another lesson here for us – There is a way; sometimes we just have to get creative (or look at the map first!). The courage to take the less traveled route was fueled by a community of determined friends. No matter the season, we are better off journeying together.
Image description: Hanna enjoying a much deserved break after figuring out how to get back to start and putting her snowshoes back on.
Who in your community encourages you when you hit a “fence”? How do you reciprocate that for others?
Just as the winter season restores the earth so new growth can spring up, our current places, roles, and situations also serve a purpose. Even in the midst of suffering, we have purpose. However, that purpose will not come without recognizing the opportunities that come with less-than-ideal circumstances — like another snow in the forecast, a tough diagnosis, or a job change.
What opportunities are “Springing” up around you even in the midst of feeling stuck in “Winter”?
We are whole occupational beings that cannot wait on ideal weather or life circumstances. Tulips, sunshine, and tree buds are around the corner. Until then, grab those snowshoes and a buddy!
