Want to Build a Snowman?
Winter's first snow brings both nostalgia and new challenges, but with the right mindset, it can be a season of magic and growth.
The first snow has fallen. What a magical moment it was. As I saw the first few flakes fall, I reminisced how I used to look forward to sledding and making snowmen, having snowball fights with my friends, the hot chocolate drinks, and general fun that defined the winter. And then, I grew up and had to shovel out the driveway, scrape my windshield, slip and slide while shoveling, walking, or driving. Being cold was no longer the fun it once was. And without the warmth and seeing the sun daily, even Superman would grow weak!
Winter brings a challenge of short and cold days. It is so easy to just sit in your comfortable chair, use the remote and catch up with all the shows you’ve been meaning to watch. Binge watching is a winter sport. While that may be a way to spend your winter, I’d like to suggest something that may serve you better.
Start an exercise regimen. One can do calisthenics in the home while listening to some music or a lecture. YouTube has a lot of great classes online, as does Torah Anytime, Melton, Yeshiva University, etc. Listening and exercising is a great way to multitask and help exercise your body and mind. If you have a treadmill or some other aerobic exercise machines, or old “Dancing to the Oldies” videos, that also works. For those who continue to love the winter, who enjoy skiing, snow tubing, etc., I’m happy for you. You are already taking advantage of the possibilities this season offers. For the rest, my message is, “Put on your boots, dress warmly and take a walk.” It may be hard to take the initial steps, but in the long run, we all need to get out of our homes and get some outside time. The walks will help us not to go stir crazy. Go outside and brave the cold, while getting your vitamin D from the sunshine. There is nothing better than feeling the warm sun on your face. It substantially enhances one’s mood!
Another idea is to read some books or listen to books on tape. For those who enjoy puzzles, word search, etc., they are all good for mental stimulation. For those who enjoy attending classes, courses are held in the Federation, as well as the different synagogues in town. Check out the various choices available! Bob Feferman and Omer Karavani will be giving a course on “Israel Today” through Forever Learning. Make sure that you sign up. It should be a great class.
Wintertime can be either fanciful and magical or slippery and dangerous. The choice is yours. I say, “Let’s dress warmly, get out there, be careful, and most of all, make some magic.”
Rabbi Fred Nebel
Jewish Family Services Director
574-233-1164 x1806
RabbiNebel@TheJewishFed.org