Not that long ago, a lot of time was spent by men, women, and children preparing for winter. Food was gathered and canned, or stored in a cool, dry place, animals were butchered, meats were cured and smoked, and wood was cut and stacked in preparation for the cold. In the winter, the home fires needed to be tended to prepare our food and warm our bodies. The fire was a gathering place.
Most of these winter preparations have ended, left for the history books, and yet, something now seems to be missing. In many ways, life is simpler, yet many struggle to survive. Our lives are more comfortable than our ancestors could have imagined: fresh vegetables in the middle of winter, a pill to ease our aches, hot water from a tap in the house! We go to a store to buy whatever we want, perhaps even pick up some fresh flowers. If we have a chill, we turn the heat up another degree. There is no denying that winters are easier now, and yet so much harder.
Somehow, meaning, purpose, and belonging have escaped many. Our cities are filled with loneliness. Is it because we have lost the gathering places in our homes and communities where we shared food, games, warmth, and stories?
When was the last time you asked your neighbour if they could lend a hand, or borrowed a cup of sugar? If we don’t need each other, maybe we do have too much stuff.
Brave the cold, knock on that door and invite them for supper, or go over and play a game of cards. You’re not wasting time — you’re investing in your community.
