Wisdom from the Woods – Life Lessons Learned from Being Around a Lost Soul

In February, happiness is a fickle friend. The shortest month goes unrushed for me. The lingering lifelessness of winter numbs me. Grim grays and subdued hues surround me and reflect the sullen scenery of my mind. The lack of sunlight illuminates darkness in my heart. February is the anniversary of my twin’s death. Instinctively, my mind reignites the pain seared into my flesh by the experience. Grief, buried beneath mounds of drunken distractions, is resurrected. Zombies arise on hazy morning horizons to pursue me again. Like dormant daffodils in the soil of my soul, the seeds of sorrow begin to blossom. I stagger in a haze of hurt, mindful of what occurred and what will never be. I ponder missed moments and special occasions amputated from my life. I think about nieces, nephews, weddings, holidays, and birthdays all slain by a single bullet. In time, the melancholy melts like snow on a mild March day. Spring brings reasons to rejoice. I see hints of renewal in the landscape of my life now. My slumbering spirit is restless to get up and play. Putting the worst thing imaginable behind me, I’m less anxious about what’s in front. The road ahead is paved with possibilities. I look forward to Jeepin’ it with my best friend, Maxx, soon.

– Jim Shock, LBSPY #28 (March 11-25th)