For twelve years, I’ve lived through long Michigan winters. Each year, when spring arrives, I’m completely delighted, and I never quite get over it. From the start of the season through summer, I’m filled with gratitude for the contrast.
I’ve been reflecting on spring’s dual nature: I fully expect its arrival, but I still find myself surprised by it. At this time of year, I always wonder: what would it be like if winter started, and I had no knowledge that spring would follow? What if I couldn’t expect it?
And that brings me to another thought: if I were a chipmunk born in 2024, would I have any concept of the end of winter once the season arrived in my daily experience? Would I just think, “Well, I guess this is my life now…”?
I have no idea what a chipmunk thinks or perceives. But I’m glad I can count on this change, and I’m glad I can still feel surprised by it.
There are probably a lot of life metaphors in there somewhere.
– Renee Roederer
Smuggling Grace 