Microseasons as a Consolation in Hard Times

Microseason No. 4, February 19 - 23

Living in small units of time can be a consolation. It helps keep things in perspective.

Weather comes and it passes. It’s all just wind.

Rainy days are essential for the health of the earth. And yet, we complain about the weather.

Instead, why not welcome the nourishing rain and see what’s beautiful in the downpour?

On my hike today: cold rain fills an Earthstar mushroom.

I did this after I ruptured a disc in my spine.

I was living my worst nightmare. Agonizing pain. My busy life had abruptly stopped.

And yet, I remember thinking: I’m still here.

I’m still myself— receiving so much kindness from all the humans taking care of me.

I’m lying here— in a pool of Light.

After surgery, I re-trained my muscles by taking slow gentle walks in the forest. Things improved at a snail’s pace. But I definitely got stronger by hiking.

I distracted myself from the pain by paying close attention to all the natural beauty around me. And the trees, whose lives happen in slow motion, were an anchor.

“I would almost say that they save me, and daily” said poet Mary Oliver.

Listen to her poem “When I Am Among the Trees” read for you by Amanda Palmer.

This day is your time.

It’s part of a fleeting season.

Be in it.