Winter Hibernation

 

I recently received this image in one of my social media streams. It really caught my attention and sent me to reflect on the wisdom of nature.

As we approach the end of January, for many the lengthening of the days signals an end of winter hibernation. We all need time to reflect, rest and re-evaluate and no time better than the short winter days.

Confucius once said that:

Learning without reflection is a waste.

Reflection without learning is dangerous.

 

The purpose of reflection is not to replace the darkness with light, but rather to integrate the light and darkness within us, so that we can have balance and accept that we are a balance of light and dark, movement and stillness, sound and silence.

Giving yourself time and space for reflection is the gift you give to yourself, which allows the deeper parts of you to emerge and be discovered, allowing you to create new and wonderful possibilities.

 

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards. 

Søren Kierkegaard

 

And so in the remaining days of winter, while nature is still preparing to burst forth with the new life and energy created from its quiet hibernation, what will you focus your attention on?

 

What will you reflect on and learn from so that you can emerge from your contemplation with more choice, more creativity and more energy to embrace the wonders that await you in the months ahead?

 

Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted – it is an intimate date with yourself.”

– Dr Paul TP Wong