A Fresh Snow

Much to my surprise, the 2010-2011 winter season has been active in upstate New York. This is a change from the past few, inactive winter seasons. This morning, I awoke to a fresh snow covering the landscape. This marks the third significant snowfall since Christmas Day.

Above is a photo of the snowfall this morning, taken shortly before 10:00am. Take a look at the photo for a moment. Notice how everything is covered in a fresh, crisp blanket of white. Notice the stillness in the photo. Nothing is moving; it's as if the pause button has been hit on the remote control of life.

After growing up in upstate New York, I am used to seeing these winter scenes. There is nothing like a fresh snowfall to lift one's spirits. Nature has a way of casting beauty across the dullest landscapes. Nature also has a way of proving its supremacy. It is governed by universal laws of physics, which we cannot control. If that sounds intimidating, I want you to walk outside and notice the world around you. Whether or not a fresh blanket of snow covers the landscape, understand that it is nature, governed by these universal laws, that created the beauty surrounding you. Nature is the highest power to which we succumb. Do not fear nature; rather, learn to live in harmony with nature and give it due respect.

One more thought, before concluding - I ask you to take a look at the night sky on the next clear, starry night. Notice the stars above you. Think about the vast, turbulent universe that lies before you. Then think about the blue and green miracle planet on which we live. We've found our existence in a quiet corner of this universe. We're very fortunate. In this vast universe, other life forms likely exist in less fortunate locations. Embrace this and appreciate life! There is no time to lose.