February often feels like a transitional month, caught between the excitement of the New Year and the eagerly awaited arrival of Spring. This year, I see February as a period of hopefulness and an opportunity to strengthen resilience.
Part of that equation relates to all the good ideas I’ve gotten from friends.
My friend Christy, on Facebook, marked the end of what she calls the “Ten Darkest Weeks of the Year,” spanning from November 16 to January 22.
A fellow enthusiast of February, yet another Kristy, heightened my anticipation for Punxsutawney Phil’s annual Groundhog Day prediction. Phil forecasted an early Spring, and while his accuracy is only 40%, this might be one of those 40% years!
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and my wife Sheila always surprises me with the most heartfelt card, a beautiful reminder of our enduring time together.
In childhood, we celebrated Abraham Lincoln’s (February 12) and George Washington’s (February 22) birthdays as separate holidays. While we now have the generic “President’s Day,” my friend John suggested delving into Steve Inskeep’s latest book, “Differ We Must,” about Lincoln’s team of rivals – a lesson in wisdom and honor sorely needed today.
February is a month of celebrations, honoring Black History throughout, observing Random Acts of Kindness on February 17, and even today, February 7, National Send a Card to a Friend Day. Just think of this Resilient Wednesday as your personal card from me.
Super Bowl Sunday is imminent, a time of national unity over taco chips, guacamole, chili, and beer. My friend Frank, an adept predictor, will offer odds for the game; I’m rooting for the ‘Niners but putting a little money on KC.
Stacey and Neal planted bulbs last fall, and the narcissus is starting to emerge, signaling the imminent bloom of those lovely purple flowers.
The name “February” originates from the ancient Roman festival of purification, honoring the god Februus, who sought to cleanse people of their sins in preparation for Spring. Inspired by my friend Mary Jane, I’m contemplating some early spring cleaning – a cathartic process of sorting through my past, mostly recycling old clothes and household items I do not use enough to justify keeping them.
As we dive into the joys and reflections of February, I invite you to share your experiences, traditions, or thoughts about this transformative month. What makes February special for you? Drop a comment below, and let’s celebrate the unique charm of February together. Remember, spring is (almost) officially just a few weeks away, according to my friend, Phil.
© Richard Citrin 2024
