Thunder Starts to Roll (March 31 – April 4)*雷乃発声 – “Thunder begins to roar.”

The thunder truly did arrive on cue. Over the past week, several strong storm fronts rolled through — one after another — as if spring were announcing itself in full voice. The rain came in waves, soaking the garden and drumming against the windows. It was beautiful, moody, and appropriately dramatic.

I didn’t get around to writing this post in time. Spring has a way of pulling you into its whirlwind. And this year has been no exception. When I set a goal, I picture myself like a tightrope walker; steady, focused... until life inevitably hurls something my way, and I must dodge, intercept, or adjust. Sometimes (who am I kidding, often), I get knocked down. But then you know what? I get back up again. (You're never gonna keep me down!)

Anyway, my goals are as pertinent as ever, despite the many things on my plate. Broadly, they fall into three categories: doing good work, building positive and rewarding relationships (both personal and professional), and finding time to slow down and enjoy life. This blog has helped me do all three, and so I must continue, even if I miss a week or two.

Swallows Return (April 5 – April 9)

玄鳥至

I will admit, scanning the skies for swallows has not been a priority for me. I’ve been going out just before sunset to see if I can catch a glimpse of them. Apparently, there are several migratory species that spend time in this area on their way north, so perhaps our paths will cross.

If not, I’m now prepped to keep an eye out. Nature is interesting like that. When you learn about a plant or animal, it’s common to start observing it everywhere. When we prime our minds to see something, it’s almost comical how it has been around us the entire time, waiting for us to notice.

Maybe that’s what this season is really about; learning to notice what was always there, and finding joy in the quiet return.