"Bad weather always looks worse through a window."
Living in Europe has many perks. Amazing travel opportunities, a plethora of new people, cultures, and perspectives, as well as helping me appreciate the things I will one day have again when I return to the States (ex: Mexican food and garbage disposals.) One of the things I find most difficult in life is being cold. German winters are humid and cold. The snow, the ice, the sleet, the wind- and the fact that school is never cancelled regardless makes winters hard for me here. I love going out for a short jog each day when it's nice out, but once the weather turns my desire to get out and be active is minimal at best. At one point last winter I was commenting on my dislike for winter and a friend suggested I go out for a walk and try to enjoy it. I wasn't sure enjoying it was possible, but this year I decided to give it a go. The Germans say there is no bad weather, only bad dressing. So, in an attempt to embrace the weather, I began bundling up nice and warm and spending 30 minutes on a walk/jog/run each day (...or sometimes trudge or skate depending on the ice or snow.) I have to say the first few times I was pleasantly surprised at how great I felt afterwards- invigorated and pleased that I hadn't let the weather keep me in my house. At first, there were days I'd look out the window and think, "going out today would be crazy! Look at that snow!" or "Who would find joy walking in sleet?" Nevertheless, I'd bundle up a little extra, put on my boots, and head out. As the month went on, I began really looking forward to my walk/run- even if the weather looked rough. Some days when it was particularly bad I found myself that much more determined because it would be an even bigger accomplishment when it was finished. Now I enjoy it so much I don't think I'll stop- in fact, I hope others will take time to enjoy nature each day as well, regardless of the weather.
So how does this apply to Families are Forever day? In the years since Luke passed, there have been days I've wanted to "avoid the weather." Days I've wanted to hide, to keep to myself, to avoid situations that may bring up sadness, difficult memories, etc. Some days I've done exactly that, but other days, I've faced the challenge head on...helped when I wanted to hide, showed compassion to others when I was hurting, smiled when I wanted to cry, or cried in front of someone when I wanted everyone to think I was fine...and those days are the days I'm most proud of. Those are the days I've grown a little more, learned a little more, healed a little more...all because I decided to "embrace the weather." Here's to many more days of embracing whatever weather may come- we bundle ourselves up with faith and love and hope and step out that door...because honestly, most of the time the weather really isn't as bad as it looks through the window.
Love your family a little extra today! Happy Families are Forever day.
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