Spring Awakening
By Reno Litterio

Are you awake from the winter doldrums? The never ending winter, which brought destruction and devastation in so many parts of our country. Have we finally put this winter of 2008 behind us? Officially, Vernal Equinox occurred March 20th of this year and Daylight Savings Time began March 9th. This past winter has been one tedious long and drawn out season, bringing us all the harsh elements accorded to the Northern Hemisphere and much more than we expected. This year we also had Leap Day, an extra day of snow and rain.

Awake and look around. Come out of your winter mind set and observe your surroundings. Get with Nature’s spring rhythm as it awakens from the warmth of the sun. The dormant creatures beneath the earth stir and emerge from their winter hibernation.

Awake and start taking those long walks and inhale deep, long breaths of spring air. Renew your commitments to use some of your personal time for better ways of enjoying the out doors, absorb the sun light and start living. Our precious time is now.

Awake your human spirit to a patch of blue sky. The month of April is the time to start thinking about garden tools, yard waste bags, pruning, grass seeds, lawn mowers, digging forks, fertilizer and physical workout which we certainly need. Pickup a hand full of earth and feel the texture and observe the color. Look for the Crocus flowers which brings you a spring greeting. Cut some Forsythia branches that already have formed buds, bring them indoors in a water filled vase, to force their openings of gold splendor.

Awake and do something nice for someone. Start thinking about embellishing flower boxes and window shelves with a variety of plants. Awake and greet your friends and neighbors, with a solid positive smile on your face, it’s contagious. Awake and live in the moment.

About The Author
Reno J. Litterio is the cofounder of the Ward 4 Senior Citizens Social Group in Quincy in 1992 and is now Chairman and Director of the group. You can reach Mr. Litterio at renowarior@ aol.com.