It may seem premature, but dreaming of spring can be uplifting. When I was deep in my grief, it comforted me to believe—despite the lack of evidence—that things would eventually improve. I know it’s true that even on a cold, windy, and ice-crusted day, the warmth of spring will eventually arrive.

Much of my healing relied on faith and hope for better days. This belief acted as a lifeline in the turbulent waters of despair. Even now, I realize that a beam of hope can transform my inner landscape and help me maintain balance. I also appreciate my current surroundings amid winter’s beauty—sparkling snow, bare branches delicately etched against the gray sky, and the intricate patterns of dried reeds and grasses now revealed. I would have never believed it, but now I recognize that moments of beauty emerged while I was grieving. These included insights, signs of hope like a feather in my path, and messages from nature that seemed meant just for me. There is always the promise of spring!

I came across this piece, drawn years ago when my vision still allowed such detail. I like the detail and the message, the appreciation of winter and spring as one fades and the other emerges. I used tiny replicas of Wilson Bentley’s snow crystal images, pen and ink, colored pencils, and pastels to create this little snow fairy.

A tiny crystal adorns her fingertip as she contemplates winter’s beauty and spring’s affirmation.