Punxsutawney Phil said it would be like this.
When the “prognosticator of prognosticators” saw its shadow this past Groundhog Day (which was a bit of a numerological anomaly – 2/2/22), we figured we were in for six more weeks of winter (although “Phil” is right only 40% of the time). But whether the prediction from Punxsutawney Phil, Staten Island Chuck, or even Milltown Mel is right or wrong, one thing is certain: Spring will come, nature will blossom, and the flora & fauna of the northern hemisphere will once again come alive.
Spring is a season of renewal. Astronomically, it begins when the Sun crosses the celestial equator on its way north, when day and night last exactly the same amount of time. This is called the Spring, or Vernal, equinox (equinox is a Latin word meaning “equal night;” vernal means “fresh” or “new” and so does spring, so vernal and spring are often used interchangeably). The Vernal Equinox is tied to the Gregorian Calendar, which adds a leap year every 4 years to account for the discrepancy between the 365-day calendar year, and the actual time it takes for the earth to orbit the sun, which is closer to 365.25 days. Therefore, the Spring Equinox will fall between March 19-21, depending on the year. This year, it falls on March 20.
Meteorologically speaking, Spring has already begun. For statistical and measurement purposes, weather scientists divide the year into four quarters. This makes it much easier to compare seasonal and atmospheric data from one year to the next. So, from the weatherman’s perspective, Spring always begins on March 1, and ends May 31.
Why the lesson on astronomical and meteorological time frames when it comes to Spring?
To be honest, it was a little self-indulgent (I found it interesting). Beyond that, however, I find it helpful to recognize that the renewal or rejuvenation in the Spring happens at different times, depending on our perspective, our focus, our positioning, or the conditions around us (I mean, for our friends in the southern hemisphere, it won’t happen for another 6 months!).
In many ways, this is similar to a more personal renewal – the renewal of the soul. Like the seasons of Mother Earth, sometimes we humans experience shifts in the internal climate that can last months, for better or for worse. I’ve personally lived stretches where the dark, frigid days of loneliness or despair felt like they’d never give way to the brightness and hope of springtime. Perhaps that’s why I love the Spring. It invites me to remember. It illustrates the magic of awakening. It encourages me to press forward.
Experiencing the awakening of the season also helps me recognize that the renewal and rejuvenation of the essence of springtime is not tied to the astrological or meteorological limitations. Rather, this new beginning of sorts is actually accessible at any time throughout the year. The darkness I may battle today can fade with the growing light of hope, regardless of the calendar, or the earth’s positioning around the sun. What a wonderful reminder the Vernal Equinox can serve in our quest for lighter spirits and brighter days.
So this Spring, as the daffodils emerge, the cherry blossoms explode into full bloom, and the myriad shades of green re-emerge all around us, take note.
First, enjoy the moment. There is a lot of turmoil in the world, near and far. But for a moment, take in the colorful awakenings around you, and find the beauty in a flower, or the song of a bird. We often find what we look for – seek beauty and joy in the moment.
Second, allow the essence of springtime to become embedded within you as a principle of hope. There may be times in the coming days, in the heat of the summer, or in the dead of winter where we’ll need to draw upon the principle of renewal. Recalling the images of green grass and flower beds just may help us through a tough patch.
Third, cultivate a spirit of gratitude. One step beyond finding joy is the deepening of our sense of gratitude. A thankful heart sharpens the focus on the beauty around us, and can dissipate feelings of despair. Gratitude can plant the seeds of hope within a darkened soul. How wonderful it is when these seedlings sprout, growing into the full-bloom of purpose and fulfillment.
Happy Spring everyone – now, and in every season throughout the year.
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