Winter is arriving early here in Shasta,
and I am finding it surprisingly difficult to face.
I know the wisdom of offering no resistance
to whatever comes and goes in life,
but it is harder now.
I am entering the winter of my life
and will not experience the spring of youth again.
Thus the yearly winter season looms a metaphor
for the dimming of the life I’ve known;
and also for the winds that shake society
as we all seek shelter from the storm.
For an old man, I am healthy,
but it is not the health that points its nose
into the storms and shouts to,
“Bring it on!”
I want to find a warm and cozy shelter
from the inner and outer weather.
I am going deeper into the Way of Tao.
It is the only shelter that can actually offer
comfort, peace, and the contentment of acceptance.
Wu-wei – the relaxed and gentle movement
that removes resistance and brings instead the comfort
of flowing with a Greater Power than my own.
I have been lived by Tao through all these years
and Tao will live me still, without my anxious thoughts
that spin a web of fear.
The cabin rocks with wind, and rain
pelts hard on tin roofing overhead.
It is to this power I belong
and as my thoughts wind down
the peace that lives beyond all reason waits,
and welcomes me once again.
No effort to resist.
No problem.
William Martin 
That was so meaningful. Thank you.
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Through every winter, spring arises, and every fall follows winter’s call. The balance struck between the seasons is one that holds the spirits whole. For all acceptance and denials fall away in the face of nature’s kindness. Within the embrace of warmth or cold holds moments that form the essence of soul. As the Tao does speak it too remains silent, though beyond the silence exists it’s true fineness. It welcomes you home time and time again. It welcomes you home time and time again.
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Beautiful, Alex. Thank you.
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I am right there with you. Thanks!
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