I come out and pause a moment in reflection of snowflakes once captured on my tongue. A random thought of tasting one again comes and passes as I move to take shelter in my car, shaking the stowaway flakes from my hair and watching as they melt before they can hit the floor.
I drive; a reluctant participant in this impromptu third act on the stage of winter, and I wonder when did I stumble from childhood into this person I have become.
I have heard the sledders at night on the hill; their shrieks and laughter carry over the hush of snow, but I do not think to join them. I think only of the warmth of my four walls and blankets of wool rather than the chilly white I once plunged into making angels of snow upon the lawn. I have grown cautious where once I would have roamed unfettered by the thought of wet socks and a runny nose.
When did I let go of childish adventures I wonder. When did I trade youthful exuberance for adult restraint?
Did it pass while I slept? Was it wished away with the blowing out of candles on a birthday long past? Or is it the result of some changeling being left in my place while I and those around me failed to notice.
I may still dream, but I have forgotten how to play, and find myself the poorer in soul for it.
I pull up to work, my driving done for the moment. I look up at the flakes still swirling down and smile as they dance around as if enticing me to join them. I hesitate a moment before thrusting my arms out and twirling; I open my mouth and sample the first snowflake in what seems a lifetime. Its chill on the tongue passes quickly, but it tastes as sweet as they did long ago.
I lose myself for that moment and simply thrill at the scent of snow.
A passing car honks, bringing me from my play I allow myself a few more twirls before gathering up my things and making my way indoors.
Maybe I am not as lost as I thought after all.
Bonus! As this blog is taken from word inspirations written by my brother, I thought I would share his own little thought on winter in here.
