A Glint of Spring

I saw spring today. The first sign of spring isn't something that offers itself freely. It's a gift only for those with the sense to perceive it. It's a fleeting glimpse, an echo on the wind, a shadow in passing. An apparition that the drudgery of winter is nearing the beginning of its end. This winter has been exceptional with just as many 60 degree days as 6 inch snow storms, but it has still been winter. A 60 degree winter day may be a much appreciated break from the icy claws of cold and dark, but it is just that - a break. A few hours in the afternoon of pleasant temps that will submit to an early chill and encroaching darkness. The first sign of spring isn't as simple as a 60 degree day. No, it's not that tangible. It's the cumulative sum of many subtle clues. Things like the color temperature of the sun as it arcs higher across the sky or faint thermals with just enough strength to block the onslaught of winter winds or the slight darkening of a hawk's wings from summer plumage taking root. These are a foreshadowing that relief is coming. That winter's icy claws are getting soft. Not melting yet just getting soft.

I saw it today, ironically in the reflection of the sun on Colorado's Never Summer Mountain Range. Today was the beginning of the end. We will have more snow, more cold, and more wind, but the grasp of old man winter is weakening. It will suffer death by a thousand cuts, a thousand seconds of extra daylight a few seconds per day. Spring is coming, be forewarned, spring is coming...

The Never Summer Mountain Range