Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

There are many silences: the silence after meaningful words or beautiful music, the silence in nature which is hardly ever really silent due to a breeze, the rushing of a waterfall or sounds from animals; the awkward silence of a misunderstanding, the silence of a group partaking in the same experience, the silence of heartbreak or loss, the silence after saying grace, the silence after a storm or the silence of deep communion.  But there is nothing quite like the silence when it begins to snow. 
Every year those of us who live in a seasonal climate have the privilege to experience this winter wonder again and again.  For me it is magical.  A blessing coming down and covering the earth in white.  Each snowflake is a different looking crystalline star, and when the sun shines on it the snow cover glistens and glitters in many colors.  The surrounding I look at throughout the year suddenly gets covered, the branches, fences, stones and roofs soften and have a new dress on!  Everything calms down, the landscape looks innocent and peaceful until one makes the first step into the snow or begins to shovel... a scene we often don’t want to disturb.  For those of us who watch birds, their colors are more vibrant against the white of the snow - a special highlight each year.  And their quick moves and liveliness are such a contrast to the deep peace and quiet the snow brings.  And as the earth gets covered, we too like to hover under the covers.  We experience warmth very differently than in the summer.  We have to work for it by keeping active and on the move, getting the wood for the fireplace, wearing sweaters, hats and socks.
When there is enough snow, as occurred a few days ago, schools close or open late and people get snow days!  I am always happy for everyone when that happens because then there is a chance to experience the magic and peace, even if it is only for a short time.  The reality of the challenges of snow, ice and cold sets in early enough!
    Snowfall evokes so much in us; especially if we have choices about how long we can be in it!  It impresses most of our senses: feeling, seeing, hearing, touching - our experience of snow’s effect on us can be enriching.  Our senses and emotions are very engaged when we stand outside as the snow falls, or when the wind has stopped after the snow storm has passed, or when all noise has disappeared.  The silence of the snow experience is full -  full of all the elements in us that are engaged with the experience!
    Snow silence is embracing and richly nuanced, because of what it draws out in me.  And here comes more snow!

~Claudia