Reflections from the Snow

December 2024 Blog: Reflections from the Snow

In early November, we had a major snowstorm. Thankfully, within three days, the weather warmed up, and most of the snow melted. But I still couldn’t walk my trail for over a week. Many spots stayed covered in ice, especially where I needed to climb down rocks. Finally, the day came when I could venture out back. There was still snow and ice, but plenty of melting, too. I felt grateful to see the natural stone pools filled with water for the wildlife. That morning's walk sparked many reflections. Some personal, and some I’d like to share with you.

Reflections on Burdens:

• The heavy, wet snow had weighed down the juniper branches and scrub oaks. As I gently tried to free some of these branches, I found myself wondering: What burdens do I unconsciously carry that hold me down? I invite you to ask yourself the same question and if called, to identify one “weight” in your life, and visualize yourself rising up from it, even if just for today.

Reflections on Melting:

• Not all branches were buried in the snow. Those exposed to the sunlight had already been freed from the snow which had transformed into a cool drink for the plants. Similarly, we carry our own inner light, which can help dissolve or transform any “outer” perceived burdens. When we walk in our light, we naturally release the weight of what no longer serves us. Are you staying in your light?

Reflections on Shadows:

• For the plants and trees in the shadows, the weight of the snow remained. They were still held down, days after the snow, unable to rise. We all have a shadow side where parts of us hide, waiting to be acknowledged and explored. I reflected on areas of my life still in shadow, where some of my own burdens remain. Are there parts of your life that could use a little more light?

Reflections on Balance:

• Unfortunately, some branches broke when I tried to free them. Others sprang back, seeming relieved! This reminded me that even though we may want to release something heavy that is holding us down, there’s sometimes resistance to letting go. Some things may need time and patience before they’re ready to be released. Focus on what you’re ready to let go of now, and trust that healing comes in its own time. Don’t try and force what is not ready, work with the energy and timing.

As my walk that day ended, I felt a renewed appreciation for the wisdom that nature is always willing to share with me, if I am open to listening. As for the snow, it will come and go over the next few months, as will the burdens and shadows we carry. My biggest takeaway to offer you is that the key is not in avoiding these weights you may carry but in embracing our own light and stepping into a more powerful you. Whether you find yourself working in the shadows or springing back from these releases, know that each step is part of the journey.

May this season be a time of renewal and self-discovery as we go into the snowier months, where you find joy in not only letting go but also in the beauty of embracing all parts of who you are.

Ready to go further?

If you’re ready to go further in shedding any burdens you carry and stepping into a truer, limitless version of yourself, I invite you to join me in January for Identity Shift: Redefine Yourself, Realign Your Life. This three-month mastermind is designed to help you disrupt the patterns and labels that keep you in limitation, unlocking a path to self-transcendence. As a group, we’ll work to build a new foundation of self... that’s aligned with your highest truth and purpose. For more information, contact me a Barbara@DisruptingGracefully.com