Seasonals

There are four seasons of the year, right? Wrong. Actually, there are as many seasons as you wish to label. Meteorologically, we have Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. But we have many more.

Oh yes! For one, there is road construction season when traffic is totally balled up. There is the building construction season when many homes and large commercial structures are begun and worked on for months. There are sports seasons, too, like football, hockey, baseball, basketball and God knows what else. But there are more. Some deserve some time in the limelight if for no other reason than to better understand them.

Seasonal depression is one of those. SAD is an acronym for Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD happens  when individuals feel blue in cycles that mirror meteorological seasons. Fall is a SAD period for those people depressed by the disappearance of green foliage and the sure sign that bare trees and shrubs will soon appear signaling cold, bleak winter. For some it is winter alone, the barrenness, cold and windswept landscapes, and painful bitter cold winds. Spring may trigger depression for some, perhaps because of the beginning of an allergy season? Well, you get the idea.

Another seasonal depression is common at the Holidays. It may seem opposite of what should be a joyous time of year. For many, though, Christmas, Hannukah and the New Year’s festivities are depressing. Perhaps it stems from expectations of too much happiness and joy that can’t possibly be realized? Or perhaps the celebrations have little to do with the original reason for the season?

Arguments can be made for those theories and more. The fact remains that the Holidays are difficult for many people. Deep down sadness and hopelessness live deep in the bones of such folk. I’m one of them. I speak from personal experience.

Although the Holidays have often been times of joy for me, those were times when the kids were little and very hopeful. They gave me the joy of the season. Later, when they matured into adulthood, the season lost much of its meaning.

Today that is true. Elder issues emerge, too. I watched my parents journey onward through their final yeas. Dad's ended at 88 after a long illness. Still a long and good life. Mom's lasted much longer, 104+ years. She was pretty healthy until the last 6 months, then it was the usual decline. Still, a long and happy life in many ways. For the rest of us, the journey will be much the same. Horizons become nearer, fewer goals and bucket list wishes to explore. Not hopeless, but narrower, and narrower.

Senior citizen status is more than anticipating the end. It provides rich perspectives and understanding of life. It is a time to share what others skills and knowledge that will help them. That alone is the bright light of life and possibility.

Seasons come and go. Some are delightful, some not. What matters is the movement and what we do with it. Moving forward, learning still more, sharing even more. Always looking for the next new day.

And making the best of what we have. Each moment valued. Like right now. Happy new day! May it be bright and happy for you.

December 17, 2020