february (let’s face it, pretty much all of winter) is typically one of the hardest times of year for me. early on in college, i consciously decided i would despise every february. i thought i was so rebellious. i would complain about february as it approached, knowing it was coming, the awkward pest in between winter and spring. i would complain during february, as it rained, temperatures hovering just above freezing, the short days of dark continuing long after the holidays. and i would wish it a sarcastic good riddance as march arrived after its 28th or 29th day. you can’t even depend on february’s end.

but i must say, this year i have a special appreciation for february. it came at the perfect time and knew just when to arrive. after an impactful trip to liberia, africa in january (more about that later) i find myself walking down 3rd avenue at the crack of dawn with a pep in my step, a verve about my spirit and yes, misty eyes as i still sorrowfully pray for a better life for my new liberian friends. moreover, if february is truly the month of love as hallmark has it trademarked, with God’s help i have a husband i still manage to love and respect more every day as he goes about his business saving the world through business.

february is a good reminder that there was good in the recent past – magical snowfalls, holidays with family, sparklers and champagne to celebrate a new year – and there is good shortly to come – green growth all around us, natural light to gently wake us in the mornings, and a more carefree layering of cotton in place of fleece or down.

maybe february and i can start anew. this year, i will try patiently waiting in this limbo, appreciative of it for what it is, and mindful of the lessons God has for me in the wake of life-changing travel.