Embracing the Cycle: A Reflection on "Wintering" by Katherine May
As I navigated the complexities of my own life this past year, Katherine May’s "Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times" resonated deeply with me. The idea of "wintering"—consciously surrendering to rest and retreat during tough seasons—felt like an invitation to embrace a state I often find myself in. As a teacher, I often feel suspended in time from September to late May, cycling through the relentless demands of work, leaving little space for reflection or rest. Reading May’s insights was like discovering a much-needed language for my own experiences.
"Wintering" explores the cyclical nature of life and the necessity of embracing periods of dormancy as part of our human experience. May unfolds her narrative with a gentle, lyrical style that mirrors the soft yet profound lessons she imparts. She weaves personal anecdotes with cultural references, illuminating how rituals and solitude can help us find beauty even in the bleakest seasons. This heartfelt exploration felt like a balm to my soul, reminding me that my own “wintering”—the deep emotional and mental hibernation I undergo each summer—is valid and necessary.
May’s writing flows gracefully, encouraging readers to pause and truly reflect on their own cycles of rest and revival. She writes: “Winter sleeps are the best… when I wake in the night, the dark seems more profound and velvety than usual, almost infinite.” This passage struck a chord, evoking evenings when my mind races in the quiet stillness. I often rush through life, checking boxes off an endless to-do list, feeling like an assembly line of tasks. May’s words serve as a reminder to reclaim those still moments, allowing ourselves to dwell in potential and contemplation rather than mere productivity.
Throughout the book, I found myself nodding in recognition. May’s description of “liminal spaces” resonates profoundly with my own life. I’ve often felt guilty for taking the time to just be, but her reflections helped me understand that these pauses are not wasted moments; they are crucial for reflection. Consider her visit to a St. Lucy’s Day mass, where she finds a serene beauty amidst unfamiliarity. This is akin to my own rituals during the school year—like sharing the Michaelmas story and baking blackberry pie. These small acts ground me, anchoring my identity as I grapple with the demands of my profession.
"Wintering" is not just a journey of the spirit, but a reminder of the necessity of slowing down in our hustle-driven lives. The book booms with authenticity, making it accessible and relatable to anyone who has struggled with the tension between doing and being.
I believe those who juggle demanding careers, especially educators like myself, or anyone feeling the weight of constant obligation, will find solace in May’s exploration. "Wintering" redefines productivity, positioning rest not as a weakness, but as a vital component of our human experience.
Ultimately, this book was more than just a read; it was a restorative journey. It encouraged me to embrace my own cycles, to understand the winter within me, and to welcome the thaw that follows. May’s reflections have sparked a renewed sense of hope, guiding me through my current solstice toward the glimmers of life that lie ahead. In this shared human experience, I am reminded that wintering can be just as beautiful as spring—a rich, necessary pause before the bloom.
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