Chapter 1: The Essence of Winter

Experiencing winter in the northern regions can be both challenging and rewarding. It's essential to not take ourselves too seriously during this time.

Photo credit: Alex Cannon

While we might commit to healthy eating, the delightful treats of winter can tempt anyone. Strolling through a snowy town brimming with sweet shops on a chilly January day often leads to indulgence. Those who maintain a strict diet of kale and hummus throughout the winter may possess remarkable self-control, but they also miss out on the lighter side of life.

Recognizing that winter—a season filled with severe cold, heavy snow, and biting winds—can be tough, we must approach it with a sense of humor. To navigate this season with a positive spirit, we should not be overly critical of ourselves. However, we should also appreciate the strengths that winter can cultivate within us. Those who handle winter well often find they can tackle other life challenges with ease.

A timeless anecdote highlights this wisdom. A news vendor at a train station encounters two newcomers, each asking about the town. The first speaks of a dismal place filled with unkind people, while the second describes a friendly community. The vendor's responses are revealing: our experiences often mirror our outlook on life.

This parable illustrates a key principle shared by many philosophical traditions: while we cannot control what happens, we can control our reactions. Our behavior shapes our reality.

A harsh winter can serve as a humbling test for those who think they have mastered their inner selves. To truly understand the resilience required to thrive in winter, one might watch an inspiring documentary titled Happy People, which showcases life in Siberia.

We learn that happiness comes not from having everything we want but from being content with what we possess. A popular saying by Alfred Wainwright emphasizes this: "There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing." Many individuals, even those accustomed to winter, often neglect to dress properly, only to complain about the chill.

It's a humbling experience, indeed. While bulkier attire may not be flattering, it is essential for enjoying the season. Those who embrace winter, adorned in the right gear, often find joy in the cold, smiling through the frost.

Wool is your best friend in frigid temperatures, and investing in quality footwear is crucial. For icy conditions, consider using Yak Trax. Don’t let inappropriate clothing hinder your enjoyment of winter gatherings; instead, celebrate those who arrive prepared and cheerful.

Conquering the cold is far more rewarding than complaining about it. Physical resilience can lift our spirits. Yes, we’re venturing outside today, even if golf is off the table for a while.

We are fortunate to have access to excellent year-round trails for skiing, biking, snowshoeing, and hiking. These activities might not be fashion statements, but they also don't require us to deplete resources for a golf course.

In winter, nature is frozen, and if we want to enjoy the outdoors, we must dress accordingly and accept that some activities will have to wait a few months. This acceptance is liberating, allowing us to embrace quiet days when we might not hit our step goals.

Winter is a time to push ourselves outdoors but also to reward our efforts with a cozy fire and a good book afterward. The best winter enthusiasts adapt their habits without losing their sense of self.

Take, for instance, my neighbor Dave, a retired farmer of 85. He continues to cut firewood for heating throughout winter and walks in any weather, cane in hand, just to keep active. One sunny day, I spotted him a mile away from home, determined to walk uphill back.

Engaging with Dave reveals his profound understanding of life's challenges. He often shares that his father lived to 95, which sets his own expectations. Would he ever complain about winter? It seems pointless to him; after all, it’s simply a part of life.

January, named after the Roman god Janus, symbolizes new beginnings.

To navigate winter effectively, we must embrace January’s challenges. This month serves as a time for reflection on the past year, both its joys and difficulties.

While New Year's resolutions often overlook the bigger picture of self-improvement, taking time to reflect on our experiences is invaluable. January grants us a rare opportunity to slow down and contemplate.

As February approaches, we might anticipate a thaw, or perhaps a getaway to a warmer destination. However, it’s vital not to waste winter longing for summer. Life unfolds in all seasons, and we should cherish every moment.

Spring will eventually arrive, and with it, the world will thaw. Until then, be gentle with yourself; wintering in the North is not for everyone.

Chapter 2: Winter Tales and Reflections

Explore the enchanting world of winter through the lens of Jennifer McMahon's The Winter People, a book that captures the magic and challenges of the season.

Listen to Winter Person by Pocket Vinyl, a full album stream that encapsulates the essence of winter and the emotions it brings.