As we approach what can seem like a somewhat bleak season lacking in inspiration, I often turn to some of my favorite books and poems for words of wisdom. These texts serve as a source of strength for me as I strive to tackle the next few months with boldness and perseverance. They remind me that each season of life has unique lessons to teach, and as I reflect on them, I can’t wait to see what this winter has in store.

1. “Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.” - Victor Hugo

Regardless of how deep in the winter blues you might find yourself, don't forget to take time to laugh! Spend time with people you care about or binge-watch your favorite sitcom on Netflix. I'm sure that spring and summer will be seeping out of your smile by the end of it.

2. “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” - Anne Bradstreet

This idea reminds me that the difficulties of winter compel us to cherish other seasons more deeply. Our hardships make our successes even more powerful, and I think that's something to be celebrated!

3. “Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” - Edith Stiwell

Winter is a great time to take a reprieve from the busyness of daily life and pay more careful attention to the little things. Curl up under a cozy blanket with a cup of hot tea and your favorite book; notice how the blanket feels on your skin, how the words bounce off the page and come to life and how the tea tastes as it slides down your throat. Whatever leisurely activity you might choose, take a deep breath and relax!

4. “Snow was falling, so much like stars filling the dark trees that one could easily imagine its reason for being was nothing more than prettiness.” - Mary Oliver

In my opinion, winter gets a bad rep for being "the ugly season." However, I think that it offers many subtle beauties that should not be overlooked. I can never get enough of the silhouette of bare tree branches set against an incredible sunset. Take a moment this season to discover a few things you enjoy!

5. “In the depth of winter I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” - Albert Camus

A difficult winter can often help us discover strength we didn't know we had. As you persevere through this season, take heart in the knowledge that there is a light in you that no dark winter can dampen!

6. "Winter makes a bridge in between one year and another . . ." - Andy Goldsworthy

The holidays might be over, but the stillness of winter still provides a great opportunity to reflect on the year behind you and develop some goals for the year ahead. As the year continues to unfold, think about all the opportunities and memories you have to look forward to!

7. "People don't notice whether it's winter or summer when they're happy."

If you're truly happy with your life and the people in it, you might not even notice the cooler temperatures!

8. “These woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep.” - Robert Frost

It can be easy to give in to the bleakness of winter and give up on your most cherished goals and dreams. Nonetheless, Frost's poem reminds us that there are countless opportunities to be taken and countless seasons to be cherished on the road ahead.