Dear Austin Prep, 

I am thrilled to report, after countless weeks filled with gloomy cold days, spring is upon us! To be fair, meteorologists and climatologists alike consider March 1 the first day of spring; and, astrologically speaking, spring is marked by the Earth’s equator aligning directly with the sun on the vernal equinox. But I would argue April 8 has marked our official first day of spring. The sun was finally shining, and with no clouds in sight! This is one of the most crucial times of year, as the spring season marks a period of rebirth as the natural world awakens from its winter slumber. In Greek mythology, springtime was when Persephone returned from the underworld, and everything bloomed again. Many people mimic this ancient Greek myth today by flocking to witness the blooming of cherry blossom trees. These examples illustrate how spring marks a time of new beginnings for our Earth, and so too can it mark new beginnings for us. Throughout the winter months, myself in particular, I find that the lack of sunlight and gloomy days takes a significant toll on my mood. Indeed, studies have shown that the shortened days and lack of sunlight during wintertime can take a substantial toll on one’s mental health. This is precisely why I argue that it is imperative not merely to recognize the advent of spring, but to exuberantly celebrate its arrival. Almost every culture, both past and present, has some sort of ritual to celebrate the promise and fertility of spring. In ancient Rome, springtime was marked by sacrifice to celebrate the death and rebirth of the fertility god Attis. This is also why egg imagery is so prominent during the springtime, as it is the universal symbol of rebirth. This is not to say you have to make a sacrifice to a spring God in order to embrace the dawning of spring. However I do believe by making a conscious effort to embrace this time of new beginnings we may all regain a sense of control and peace. There are numerous ways to celebrate the onset of the spring season. You could take a walk with family or friends, being sure to make an active effort to recognize the signs of spring around you: do you hear birds chirping? Can you smell the fresh flowers blooming? By consciously acknowledging the arrival of spring and embracing its spirit of rejuvenation, we reaffirm our connection to the natural world and to ourselves. Springtime is about feeling refreshed, energized and ready, so doing activities that promote such feelings are a great way to celebrate spring’s arrival. You could even take the time to return to a lost passion – whether its drawing or cooking, it can oftentimes feel as though life gets in the way of things that bring us true joy. However I think that spring is the perfect time to return to these things that make us feel most refreshed and fulfilled. In essence, spring is more than just a change in the weather—it is a metaphor for resilience, transformation, and the endless cycle of life. As we bid farewell to the cold embrace of winter and welcome the warmth of spring, let us rejoice in the opportunity for renewal that it brings. For in celebrating the advent of spring, we celebrate the eternal promise of new beginnings.