Frost on roofs, rolling fogs, overused Jon Snow references — winter is coming. Though winter is often cast aside as the blank precursor to spring and a tired setting for Hallmark movies, under its cold rains and slow mornings hides a time of clarity, community and coziness.

Following the example of hibernating animals or metamorphosing plants, properly preparing for winter can serve as a chance for growth. In accepting the slower tempo of winter, we can uncover its beauty. Little can surpass the melancholy romanticism of wind-reddened noses, warm mugs heating cold fingers or nature’s retreat into adaptation’s dimness.

As waking up before the sun becomes routine, the dark transforms a mundane routine into more of a sensory deprivation experience. The dreaded murk of chilly grey turns into a companion of sorts.

The unadorned state of winter nature is not a barren desert but a refocusing. Winter brings a particular type of temporary eccentricity to the world. Against the backdrop of sparkling frost and naked trees, the subtleties of the birds and critters, the shimmer of light in cold air and all the small things typically ignored shine. Without winter’s hiatus from normality, I would not be able to appreciate the abundance of spring as much.

In winter, humanity’s inborn hunger for companionship realizes itself. Whether it be late nights around a fire spent exchanging stories and warm drinks or, hours under the covers with a movie or the hazy glow of a holiday party, winter also provides a reason to gather. The sun is reborn in solstice, sandwiched between celebrations of culture and community, reunions of family, the new year and the chaos of late winter carnivals. Personally, my family celebrates the lunar new year. Over Zoom hotpot and WeChat well wishes, the miles of distance between us seem surmountable. 

There is something special about a group of people gathering together, sharing heat and cheer, which appeals to a deeper, natural part of the human experience. Over hot meals, the dramatic decorations, travels and long-distance phone calls, the weight of existence humanity has crafted lightens. 

To ignore the cuisine of winter would be foolish. Comfort runs deep in all winter dishes, present in the spices of hot pot, beef stew or goulash or the sweetness of various cookies, hot chocolates or other desserts. Furthermore, produce like citrus, apples, beetroots and more not only serve as the basis for many dishes but are also excellent sources of vitamins and nutrients to help power through the season. Moments cooking with family or making a late-night meal in pajamas, form some of my fondest memories.

Winter also hosts a medley of sports for the more active. Apart from the quadrennial rollercoaster that is the Winter Olympics, activities include snowsports, hiking, skating or even just taking a walk around a park. As the warmth of movement, excitement and good company fights the cold under heavy coats, we can fully appreciate the sheer scale and singularity of the season.

Every cloudy breath, warm bowl of soup and morning spent in darkness makes me aware of what it means to be alive. Solitude and solidarity come together to form the most sublime of seasons. As the trademark heat of California returns, I reminisce on and look forward to sleepy evenings cocooned under layers.

As the days get longer and the temperatures start to rise, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation that can only mean one thing — spring is here. From the vibrant colors of blooming flowers to the perfect weather for outdoor activities, there are countless reasons why spring is the best season of all. With its sense of new beginnings and opportunities for exploration, spring offers a chance to experience the beauty and wonder of the world around us. Spring is the season where nature comes back to life after the harshness of winter, the season of hope and promise, deservedly winning the title of the superior season.

Spring brings along the beauty of nature. Flowers bloom, trees bud and the world becomes a more colorful place. After months of seeing nothing but brown and gray, the vibrant colors of spring are a welcome sight. The sound of birds singing, the smell of freshly cut grass and the sight of baby animals are all reminders that life is starting anew.

A season of celebration, spring marks the end of a long and cold winter. People across the world welcome the arrival of spring with festivals, ceremonies and rituals. For example, the Hindu festival of Holi, also known as the festival of colors, is celebrated in India and other parts of the world to mark the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Similarly, the Japanese celebrate the arrival of spring with the famous cherry blossom festival, which draws visitors from around the world to witness the stunning beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Even though spring brings along allergies, allergies are just symbolic of the ‘pain before the gain.’ Spring allergies are the result of the abundance of pollen in the air, which is also responsible for the blooming of flowers and trees. Allergies may cause some discomfort, but they are a small price to pay for the beauty that surrounds us.

Spring is a time of new beginnings. It’s the time to start fresh and set new goals. The sense of renewal and hope that comes with spring can inspire us to make positive changes in our lives. Spring provides the perfect opportunity for a fresh start: a new exercise routine, taking up a new hobby or simply decluttering our homes.

Moreover, spring brings with it a sense of joy and happiness: the warmer weather, longer days and the beauty of nature can all contribute to a feeling of happiness and positivity. Many people feel more energized and motivated during the spring months, which can lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of purpose. Spring also provides the perfect opportunity to spend time with family and friends, whether it’s having a barbecue, going on a hike or simply enjoying a picnic in the park.

Between gardening, cycling or playing sports, there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors during the spring months. The mild temperatures and longer days make it easier to be active and enjoy the fresh air. Spring also provides the perfect opportunity to explore new places, be it a nearby town, going on a road trip or simply taking a walk in a new part of town.

Spring is simply undeniably the best season of all. From the perfect weather to the beauty of nature to the promise of new beginnings and the sense of renewal and rejuvenation, there are countless reasons to love spring. So, take advantage of all that spring has to offer and enjoy this wonderful time of year to the fullest!