[Seasons: Winter VIII]
Most of us wear two or three layers during the cold winter months, which only intensifies the chill when the cold air reaches our necks and wrists. Solution: scarf and gloves. Winter is the seasons to cover everything up, leaving no exposed skin. (Come to think of it, I haven’t seen a bare shoulder in months.)
The winter seasons of life are when revealing too much is threatening to our wellbeing. It’s when our highest priority is to avoid exposure and seek safety. Other seasons we may be comfortable with and even seek out vulnerable experiences, but winter is a time for attending to our sensitivities, guarding our wounds, and protecting ourselves.
There are seasons when intentional exposure makes sense. Winter is not it. Exposure and vulnerability is never easy, but some seasons it's downright dangerous.
Winter is for guarding, self-care, and seeking shelter and safety. And that’s okay. Even necessary. Cover up and care for yourself, and those that know you well ought to encourage the same.
