captured in ice and mindfulness

captured in ice

Collecting leaves is an obsession of mine.  In a park, the yard or out in the woods, I feel the need to pick them up or nudge them off a tree to have a look.  In fact, today, I was sorting through some stuff and found a bunch of leaves I pressed a number of years ago.  They were incredibly intact.  I was supposed to be cleaning things out, but kept my leaves.

Autumn is full-on right now, except for last week’s shower of ice.  While unexpected for this early in the season – some talk about a polar vortex taking over – it left grasses and still dangling leaves with a sharp frosted layer.  Instead of gathering foliage to plunk in a jar, I simply gazed at how they looked like exquisite crystalized ornaments. 

The intricate veining on the leaves was illuminated by the frozen shellac.  When I touched them – I couldn’t help myself – they felt fragile and glass-like.  As the sun rose, they glistened and the not-so-gentle wind caused branches and leaves to tinkle a wintry tune.

It all sounds very dreamy and whimsical, which it was, but it made me keenly aware of the unfeigned reality of many people.  They don’t have an escape from the bitter cold.  Living on the street is a harsh existence.  What seems even more exacting is that we shy away, choosing to view the beauty without consequence.

During this season of being mindful and thankful for what we’ve been given, including appreciating the stunning beauty created by the chill, let us be conscious of those who need warmth – physically and emotionally.

Missy

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