An African-American family with three children visiting a park, walking along a pedestrian walkway surrounded by lush foliate. The boy is 10 years old and the girls are 7 and 9. The parents are in their 30s. They are relaxed, smiling and looking up. The older children are walking in front, holding hands.

Promises of Spring

There is an old English proverb that states, “No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” Although spring officially begins at the end of March, most of us would agree that spring truly comes into its own in April.

As we launch into April, it is with the hope and promises of spring – a time of new life, renewal, revival, and reinvigoration. A time when that which has been dormant beings to grow again; new seedlings sprout out of the ground, and hibernating animals awake. It is the promise that light seeks to shine in the darkest times of life; in the most challenging moments, hope strives to breakthrough. Spring comes and reminds us that there is always the possibility of new life.

Do you see it? The days are growing longer while tulips and daffodils are beginning to bloom. New grass is emerging while birds are singing. Take a deep breath, smile, and feel the connection to creation, for there is the reminder of the possibility and magic of all new beginnings. Spring brings a sense of hope, renewal, and inspiration. We only need to slow our busy lives enough to experience these changes and enjoy them, and ultimately allow spring to breathe new life into us.

What if you feel stuck in winter and unable to feel the renewal or revival of spring? How can you connect to your energies emerging so that you too can flourish like the blossoms on the cherry trees and find the assurance that blessings are coming?

Three common ways to connect to the beauty and wonder of spring to reinvigorate your soul include:

Begin a Gratitude Journal

  • Look around in nature and see all that is and then take a moment to say, “I am thankful for….”
  • Allow your gratitude to start in the new sights and sounds of nature in spring and evolve your gratitude towards more personal insights.

Connect to Nature

  • Plant a garden or buy a young plant to watch it grow.
  • Go for a hike or walk to immerse yourself in the new life all around you.

Make a Bucket List

  • What brings you joy? Do it.
  • What have you never done but really would love to try? Explore it.

There is no better time to build our physical, spiritual, and emotional health than starting a new season, especially one full of growth and new life. For example, with the longer days, there is more time to increase your physical activity, go on a picnic with friends, or simply sit and connect with the gift of creation.

This spring, may you take a few minutes to reflect on your own “season” and what possibilities lie before you, for spring has sprung, and the promises of new life and renewal are here for YOU too.