It’s called February. That’s all you have to say: February. Every Mainer will know what you mean. It causes a twinge of fear to run up our spines. It is what I would call “the dead of winter,” in more ways than one. This is winter in Maine!
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| This would be February. |
It’s just a reminder--not gentle or subtle, but jarring--of
how little all of our “control” really means.
In the great scheme of things, we’re quite powerless and at the mercy of
our surrounding circumstances. It’s easy
to forget that. We lull ourselves with
our cellphones and internet and television.
We fool ourselves with our cars and high-speed trains. Our “modern conveniences” give us a sense of
superiority and boredom with it all.
But then February comes, and we are once again greatly
humbled. It can be a crippling
humiliation if you’re not prepared for it, but those of us who live in the
north come to accept it and even appreciate it.
It reminds us to be careful and watchful. It reminds us to be hardworking and helpful
to others. It reminds us to be grateful
for our neighbors. It reminds us to be
strong and steadfast. It reminds us not
to take for granted the simple things in life, such as electricity and a warm
home.
Though it may be difficult and many of us may complain, in
the end I think we are made better for it.
I think we improve ourselves with our perseverance, patience, and just
plain stubbornness.
