Isn’t it funny how we change our minds about things as we grow older. For example, I absolutely hated winter with a passion when I was a kid, but I like it now.
Are you asking yourself: “Why in the world does Brooke like winter?” Or maybe you’re thinking: “There’s something not right with that girl.”
First, no argument there. Second, I see winter as being rather cozy. On really cold evenings, my husband Tim will build a fire in the fireplace. I love to sit in front of it while wrapped up in a blanket and drinking a hot cup of coffee or cocoa. This also a good time for me to write.
I have friends who don’t agree with my concept of cozy. Instead, they prefer their flips flops and warm weather. I have no doubt that many of you feel the same. Then there are those who suffer from a type of depression in the wintertime.
It’s known as S.A.D.: Seasonal Affective Disorder. To them, the days are not only too short, but they are also too dark. I know someone who deals with this every year. So, is this why I didn’t like winter as a kid? Not exactly. The version for me would have been S.A.D.A: She Ain’t Doing Anything.
Instead of feeling depressed, I felt trapped and frustrated. When it was cold outside, my mom wanted me to stay inside where it was warm. Now, I get it, but at that time it was so difficult for me. Let’s face it, you can only stand to watch so many reruns of “Gilligan’s Island,” “Get Smart” and “Star Trek.” I remember laying upside down on the rocking chair as I whined about being stuck inside.
In all fairness, I had a valid point. You see, I couldn’t chase butterflies, swing, play in the dirt, or ride my tricycle. What else was there to do?
In fact, I asked my mom this one day when I was especially bored. She simply answered, “You’ve got quite the imagination. Why don’t you use it?”
“Thou hast set all the borders of the earth: thou hast made summer and winter.” Psalm 74:17 (KJV)
Regardless of what season we like or don’t like, they are ordained by The Lord. I think the trick to contentment is to be thankful in all seasons and circumstances. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.)
I took my mother’s advice. At that time, we had a large, round footrest. On the top was a design with four large petals. So, I turned it on the side and set it front of the rocking chair. Then I made a loud roaring noise. My mom walked into the living room and asked, “What in the world are you doing?” I politely responded. “I’m using my imagination. The petals are the propellers for my airplane and I’m flying all over the world.” Without saying another word, she went back into the kitchen.
Brooke Cox is an author, speaker, and storyteller. She was a 2016 Selah Awards Finalist for Debut Novel. Her children’s book, “Dinosaur Eggs,” is now available. It is based on Ephesians 6: The Armor of God. Her novel “Until the Moon Rises: A Conniving Cousin Mystery” is also available. Also, she has two books out in her storytelling series: “Saucy Southern Stories.” The Amazon links for her books may be found on her website: brookecoxstories.com. Please feel free to contact her. She would love to hear from you.