When we're in the thick of winter - when there's only a blink of daylight in a day - we use the stored memory of these days to get us through.
It works - kinda.
Sometimes I wonder why we stick around up here in the frozen north. We could have warm weather like this every day, we wouldn't have to rely on those embellished memories. Of course, today, I spent nearly 10 hours in the basement of a building in front of a computer screen - only occasionally stepping outside to appreciate the glorious weather that is coating Michigan like a hug. It's as if nature is saying, "Good job everybody! You made it. Here is your reward."
I have a strange inner need to tell my friends in the south, "See? I told you Michigan is awesome!" But today I have to admit to myself that that's just some sort of coping mechanism, a way to convince myself that I CHOOSE to live here. Honestly, I don't.
I live here for my girls. I live here for my mom. And, just a little, I live here for my job. Okay, friends too - I have incredible friends.
But if it weren't for those things, I'd be long gone!
Outta here!
History!
I'd be in a cool big city, where I could eat the most incredible food every night. I could check out my favorite bands every weekend. And I could run or ride my bike year-round.
But I'm not sure that's a trade I can make. You know how some people write little "pro" and "con" lists before they make a big decision? The balance on that sheet would lean heavily towards Michigan for me. Its hard to imagine that the weather, the food and the concerts could never trump my family and friends.
But its time I acknowledged that the weather does genuinely suck. I remember similar days in the past, when I can finally roll down my windows and crank up the music; when everywhere you look, moms are pushing babies in strollers, couples are walking hand-in-hand and suddenly everyone wants to take up jogging. I remember the feeling of optimism and opportunity when those days arrived. It didn't happen this time.
That might be because I refused to let winter get me down this year. I almost embraced it. The high was not as high because the low was not as low.
It might also be because the weather has no impact on my bank account - I'm broke hot or cold, rain or shine.
So..... what's the point? I should wrap this up with a profound revelation. But I have none. I can only observe that my moods, my outlook and my thoughts change.
Often.
My ability to cope is sometimes strong, other times weak. But I get up and live my life every day - assured that another day will pass, another season will pass, and another year will pass. And in each of them, I will be thankful for the opportunities that day brings to hug my children and to laugh with my friends.
