Happy Spring

Here in the Pacific Northwest, the first day of spring rarely brings sunshine and warm temperatures. Particularly, here in Seattle, we often wait until late June, or, more commonly, July 5th, for springlike weather. Our trees and plants bud and flower despite our wearisome winter that lingers like an unwanted house guest. Blooms hang on for dear life as wind and sideways rain batter them. Daffodils and tulips bow their glorious heads in defeat. Lawns are muddy and patchy.

Every year I ask myself, how can this be spring? It’s so cold. Will this dreary weather ever end?

Regardless of the chill in the air, the sign of spring’s arrival is always the first sighting of an early-blooming cherry tree. Yesterday, driving home from the Oregon coast, I saw one, a dash of pink in an otherwise brown and gray landscape. At last, a sign that spring will come, despite months and months of cold and rain.

Cherry blossoms, a sign of spring.

Spring, the ultimate symbol of rebirth.

Aren’t we all like the flowers? We bloom despite our dark and cold circumstances. We hang on for dear life as the world batters us. We try again, no matter how impossible the task ahead.

After a season of difficulty, we come back, ready to fight for what and whom we love.

So, today, if you’re feeling defeated like our early blooming flowers in the northwest, do not despair. Warmth and light are coming to you. Perhaps, when you least expect it, you will bloom like the cherry tree, in rebellion against your circumstances and despite the worst of odds. Whether it’s career or love or family that feels insurmountable, never give up the idea that your spring is just around the corner. Keep pushing up through the dark earth, like the daffodil, until the sun shines upon your beautiful face.

Happy first day of Spring. Blessings to all.