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Motivation Mondays: Heart Of Transitions

05/02/2018
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“February, when the days of winter seem endless and no amount of wistful recollecting can bring back any air of summer.” Shirley Jackson

Heart of Transitions

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

February makes a bridge and March breaks it. George Hebert
Winter is the time of promise because there is so little to do – or because you can now and then permit yourself the luxury of thinking so. Stanley Crawford
Go to the winter woods: listen there, look, watch, and “the dead months” will give you a subtler secret than any you have yet found in the forest. Fiona Macleod

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions. What does February bring to the Monday Motivation table? This shortest month of the year packs a powerful punch with harsh winter days that force us to turn within. February brings us the heart of the depths of winter when all forms of life are either hibernating, dying or anticipating change; a time of transition that leads to rebirth. Its severity reminds us to be grateful and work at what matters… It is the month of historic celebrations; black history month, Valentine’s day, and more. Embrace the dark, cruel, cold days with hope for loving change in the air. The groundhog agrees with me. For this post, I have added poetry written with this month in mind. I hope it will inspire and motivate you to press forward. Come back for more.

 

“I’m a little groundhog, it’s my day.
Wake and stretch, go out and play.
Down in my burrow, down so deep,
Time to wake, from my long winter’s sleep.

Grumble, grumble, scratch, scratch,
Grunt, grunt, yawn.
I’ll eat my breakfast in your front lawn.
I’m a little groundhog, it’s my day.
Wake up and stretch, go out and play.’ Author Unknown

Edward Ward, ‘February’. via interestingliterature
He who would, in this Month, be warm within,
And when abroad, from Wet defend his Skin,
His Morning’s draught should be of Sack or Sherry,
And his Great Coat be made of Drab-de-berry.

Michael Field, ‘February’.via interestingliterature
Gay lucidity,
Not yet sunshine, in the air;
Tingling secrets hidden everywhere,
Each at watch for each;
Sap within the hillside beech,
Not a leaf to see.

 

“The February sunshine steeps your boughs and tints the buds and swells the leaves within.” William C. Bryant

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

The February born will find
Sincerity and peace of mind;
Freedom from passion and from care,
If they the Pearl (also green Amethyst) will wear. Anon
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 Sitwell

Transitions are often difficult because most of us prefer the comfort of the status quo. We compartmentalize our lives into secure little boxes and retrieve as needed. In times of transition, all our reserves are swept away and we stand exposed, ready for change… whether we like it or not. Like the harsh, cold, winds of winter, all that stands in the way of our toughest seasonal change is swept away and left bare. Life forms that dug deep roots in the warmer clime, dig deeper knowing that a time of renewal will soon arrive. Those that frittered away time on senseless pleasures disappear. Even in this month of chocolate, love and remembrance of black history, we must stay vigilant and plant meaningful seeds. Without adequate preparation, we cannot reap what we did NOT sow.
The heart of transitions that forms the title of my post is about digging deep within to tap into our core resilience in times of great change/transition. Like a muscle, it takes practice to develop the inner strength to weather all storms. It takes hard work and an unshakeable determination to trust that seasons of harshness in our lives will pass away but, we must do our part. Stay motivated to do your heavy lifting. Without laying the foundation, your house will not stand the winds of change.

 

February By Margaret Atwood via PoetryFoundation
Winter. Time to eat fat
and watch hockey. In the pewter mornings, the cat,
a black fur sausage with yellow
Houdini eyes, jumps up on the bed and tries
to get onto my head. It’s his
way of telling whether or not I’m dead.
If I’m not, he wants to be scratched; if I am
He’ll think of something. He settles
on my chest, breathing his breath
of burped-up meat and musty sofas,
purring like a washboard. Some other tomcat,
not yet a capon, has been spraying our front door,
declaring war. It’s all about sex and territory,
which are what will finish us off
in the long run. Some cat owners around here
should snip a few testicles. If we wise
hominids were sensible, we’d do that too,
or eat our young, like sharks.
But it’s love that does us in. Over and over
again, He shoots, he scores! and famine
crouches in the bedsheets, ambushing the pulsing
eiderdown, and the windchill factor hits
thirty below, and pollution pours
out of our chimneys to keep us warm.
February, month of despair,
with a skewered heart in the centre.
I think dire thoughts, and lust for French fries
with a splash of vinegar.
Cat, enough of your greedy whining
and your small pink bumhole.
Off my face! You’re the life principle,
more or less, so get going
on a little optimism around here.
Get rid of death. Celebrate increase. Make it be spring.

 

The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for JAN 2018/FEB 2018 are:

 

JANUARY

01/01 –    01/01 New Year’s Day, 01/04  World Braille Day, 01/07 Orthodox Christmas, Golden Globes Award
01/08 –   01/11 Human Trafficking Awareness,  01/14 Orthodox New Year,
01/15 –   01/15  Martin Luther King Day,  01/21 World Religion Day,
01/22 –   01/26 International Customs Day, 01/27 International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust
01/28 –   01/28  Grammy Awards,

FEBRUARY

02/04 – 02, National Wear Red Day, Groundhog Day,
02/11 – 13, Mardi Gras, 14, Valentine’s Day, Ash Wednesday, 16, Chinese New Year
02/18 – 19, Presidents Day
02/25 – Wrapping Up February – Black History Month, American Heart Month, National African American History

 

Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2018?

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– Join the Daily Post Post-a-day or Post-a-week Challenge.

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— Join the BlogHer Writing Lab

 

 

More Below!

“February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March.” Dr. J. R. Stockton

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

Heart of Transitions

Motivation Mondays: Heart of Transitions

Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour. John Boswell
February is a suitable month for dying. Everything around is dead, the trees black and frozen so that the appearance of green shoots two months hence seems preposterous, the ground hard and cold, the snow dirty, the winter hateful, hanging on too long. Anna Quindle

Since that faithful day, in 2014, when I wrote my first Motivation Monday post; Motivation Mondays: CHANGE, on the topic of change, I have written many more. Each week, I contemplate my subject and pray for guidance to write on a topic that will help and benefit many. While I can confidently claim that I do the research, cull the photos, and create the content, the bulk of my posts are grounded in grace. I learn as much from the work as I learn from being observant and attuned to the world around me. My posts educate, heal, and encourage me as much as they do you. I am reminded every week that in writing this post with others in mind, I am doing as much, even more, for my own growth. Transitions/change/growth can be a terrifying winter in our lives but, if we let go our need to be in control, we will do just fine. When we make an effort to get to the heart of any matter of concern, the universe rallies to support us. Don’t despair… the cold days of February will eventually be replaced by spring … and summer … and fall. Where is the heart of your transitions? What guides and shapes it? Do tell.

 

“The day is ending,
The night is descending;
The marsh is frozen,
The river dead.

Through clouds like ashes
The red sun flashes
On village windows
That glimmer red.”
– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Afternoon in February

 

1915: FEBRUARY, by EZRA POUND via
poetryexplorer
The smeared, leather-coated, leather-greaved engineer
Walks in front of his traction-engine
Like some figure out of the sagas,
Like Grettir or like Skarpheddin,
With a sort of majestical swagger.
And his machine lumbers after him
Like some mythological beast,
Like Grendel bewitched and in chains,
But his ill luck will make me no sagas,
Nor will you crack the riddle of his skull,
O you over-educated, over-refined literati!
Nor yet you, store-bred realists,
You multipliers of novels!
He goes, and I go.
He stays and I stay.
He is mankind and I am the arts.
We are outlaws.
This war is not our war,
Neither side is on our side:
A vicious mediaevalism,
A belly-fat commerce,
Neither is on our side:
Whores, apes, rhetoricians,
Flagellants! in a year
Black as the dies irae.
We have about us only the unseen country road,
The unseen twigs, breaking their tips with blossom.

 

This post was partly inspired by a WP Daily Post – PERMIT – Write a new post in response to today’s one-word prompt. Not sure how to participate? Here are the steps to get started.

Have a peaceful and productive week ahead!

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Positive Motivation Tip: Lay a strong foundation and embrace the changes that transitions bring to your life.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM
Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to compliment the page. It serves as another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.

Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, use WordPress’ integrated tool on your blog or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM

Related Posts

 

PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos, February , Transition , via Pixabay,  AND/OR Duck/Rabbit Illusionvia  Wikipedia…

 

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

from → Global Events, Motivation Mondays, Positive Advice, Posts & Photos 2018
157 Comments leave one →
  1. dgutkowski permalink
    05/02/2018 9:03 pm

    Beautiful poems and I LOVE those pictures! Your posts are so deep! I look forward to reading more.

    Reply
  2. acraftymix permalink
    06/02/2018 12:19 am

    Oh dear Winter is not my favorite time of the year I’m afraid. That quote from Anna Quindle that you used says it perfectly. I just want to burrow in a deep hole and hide there until Spring. We can see some of the leaves have started turning here in South Africa so Autumn is just around the corner for us, which means you guys up north will soon be celebrating all that gorgeous new life and I’m kinda jealous

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      02/04/2018 1:06 am

      Yeah, winter is not my friend… 🙂

      Reply
  3. Emily Leary permalink
    06/02/2018 4:28 am

    It’s changed from mild to a cold snowy day here but beautiful nonetheless and I love your pics!

    Reply
  4. Jenna permalink
    06/02/2018 5:04 am

    These motivational posts are such a great way to jumpstart the week!! Hope the energy carries through for you!!

    Reply
  5. Evelyn, PathofPresence permalink
    06/02/2018 5:43 am

    Words of Truth! February can be a short, but arduous month weather wise. Albeit, as I go through transition, it helps to know that nothing is forever, and Spring is just around the corner.

    Reply
  6. Ithfifi permalink
    06/02/2018 5:58 am

    I absolutely love the groundhog poem, its beyond cute! I don’t cope well with the winter months, I am certainly more the hibernating type and having a cold within these months makes me even more likely to want to do less and be less productive. I am looking forward to the transition of spring! I will have to face huge changes soon as I am looking for a job but that sort of change excites me greatly.

    Reply
  7. Heather permalink
    06/02/2018 6:46 am

    Yeah, I’m not too fond of February…its cold and bitter and Valentine’s day is nothing I take special. But at least in March, while its still winter, warmer days make an entrance here and there giving us a hint that spring is near.

    Reply
  8. Gladys S Parker (@momtograndma) permalink
    06/02/2018 6:53 am

    I have tried to change my way of thinking about February. I started reading again (it has been years), reading historical fiction comforts me and builds my gratitude. My daughter bought books $2. a box and some of them I like. I like the piece above “February is a bridge.” Spring and all things new are on their way.

    Reply
  9. Emily Fata permalink
    06/02/2018 7:03 am

    I never really thought of February being a time of many transitions, but you’re absolutely right! Even in personal things going on in my life this month, there are definitely an abundance of transitions happening.

    Reply
  10. Erica Swedish permalink
    06/02/2018 7:33 am

    quite the fan of that quote. I have never thought about the growing pains one experiences. When you are in them it doesn’t feel like anything will ever get better, then magically it does, For instance after my divorce, I never thought I would be able to even BREATHE on my own. Then one day the hurt just stopped.

    Reply
  11. tanviidotcom permalink
    06/02/2018 8:52 am

    Love this quote – “The February sunshine steeps your boughs and tints the buds and swells the leaves within.” William C. Bryant – especially since it is my birthday month!

    Reply
  12. Indu Indra permalink
    06/02/2018 9:46 am

    February is certainly a month to acknowledge heart of transitions. This month brings the warmth of spring with an aura of love to feel in heart and celebrate with loved ones.

    Reply
  13. Cindy Ingalls permalink
    06/02/2018 10:04 am

    I actually love winter, even in February when it can become so brutal. There is something about seeing the snow reflecting the sun that brings me joy.

    Reply
  14. Sian Lifts Weights🍕 (@sianryanx) permalink
    06/02/2018 10:09 am

    I am always left inspired by your posts, your writing is a beautiful art and leaves such a positive aura.

    Reply
  15. Betzy Cuellar permalink
    06/02/2018 10:16 am

    I will wake up and go do something meaningful today.

    Reply
  16. Yasaman Ebrahimifardoei permalink
    06/02/2018 11:32 am

    This was very inspirational

    Reply
  17. Cindy Gordon permalink
    06/02/2018 2:01 pm

    I welcome February. It is the last month before spring arrives, and that is what I look forward to!

    Reply
  18. Jessica Hughes permalink
    06/02/2018 2:53 pm

    I agree it does take practice to learn how to be resilient in the face of change. Learning how to be ok in times of transition is difficult but it makes life much easier.

    Reply
  19. Lyosha permalink
    06/02/2018 4:58 pm

    February is always a tough month for me. Last of winter it is normally taking all of my juices. Your motivation helps me 😊

    Reply
  20. Megan B permalink
    06/02/2018 5:06 pm

    Such a beautiful set of photos and quotes. Thank you for sharing this – I needed a little motivation, even if it’s not Monday 🙂 x

    Reply
  21. Kendra permalink
    06/02/2018 5:28 pm

    Transitions are sometimes difficult for us, but are also necessary in order to move forward.

    Reply
  22. jnuna permalink
    06/02/2018 5:53 pm

    I love these quotes and poems so much! It’s been a while since I’ve had time to sit down and really read good poetry and reflect on its meaning. I’m so glad that I got to do that tonight 🙂

    Reply
  23. Shubhada Bhide permalink
    06/02/2018 6:20 pm

    This is such a great post and I really like the photos and the message behind this post.

    Reply
  24. Ayana Christine Nell permalink
    06/02/2018 6:27 pm

    Beautiful collage this week! I don’t much mind February, but I live in SC where we get a mix of cool and warm days pretty much all winter. Today was really nice out! I can see how a month of cold dark days would make you think about some transitions though!

    Reply
  25. Melissa Blevins, Personal Finance Coach permalink
    06/02/2018 6:50 pm

    For real, though…January was the absolute longest month ever. I need light and sunshine and warmth in my life. Otherwise I just feel down. Thank you for the reminder to keep pressing forward <3

    Reply
  26. serena hale permalink
    06/02/2018 6:51 pm

    Digging deep is always necessary when facing transitions. It is hard sometimes when you do not want to change. We want to take our time but sometimes we have to dive right in and do it.

    Reply
  27. Cleverly Changing (@Cleverlychangin) permalink
    06/02/2018 7:44 pm

    Wow, so many powerful words and phrases that are inspirational. I enjoy reading the poem the most.

    Reply
  28. Jocelyn @ Hip Mama's Place permalink
    06/02/2018 7:54 pm

    For me February is like the dark before the light. It’s the month before we welcome Spring and all that it brings. But it’s not as cold as we set it out to be, it’s also packed with warmth and meaning.

    Reply
  29. nadaliebardo permalink
    06/02/2018 8:08 pm

    February and March feel endless for me, the cold winter months just drag on and seem to get colder and colder. Beautiful poetry, it is lovely and describes this month perfectly. I cannot wait to see colour back on the trees.

    Reply
  30. thetennisfoodie permalink
    06/02/2018 8:38 pm

    I love the photos! That sunset photo reminds me of optimism. It means we should wake each day with a new hope.

    Reply
  31. Samantha permalink
    06/02/2018 10:14 pm

    I enjoyed the poem about the groundhog.🙂 Change can be scary, but is necessary to grow as people. It reminds me of one of my favorite quotes from Muhammad Ali: “A man who views the world the same at 50 as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.”

    Reply
  32. lucicoo permalink
    06/02/2018 11:24 pm

    February is always a roller coaster of a month for me. Part of it has to deal the weather where I live is either really cold and rainy or it can be in the 70’s and rainy and the is all the love in the air.

    Reply
  33. Victoria Heckstall permalink
    06/02/2018 11:49 pm

    This is a great post to ponder. I love that quote. It shows how we are being formed in our daily living.

    Reply
  34. Noelle Lynne permalink
    07/02/2018 12:55 am

    WOW! I really love this quote you shared ‘February makes a bridge and March breaks it. George Hebert’ very eye opening and inspirational! So happy I came across your blog, bookmarking it so I can easily come back.

    Reply
  35. kumamonjeng permalink
    07/02/2018 1:01 am

    Mountain and snow look great but I love the poem the best in this write up! Thanks for the motivation!

    Reply
  36. Cleo permalink
    07/02/2018 1:06 am

    Love how you write. Even the poetry is really well thought out and highly considered!

    Reply
  37. Drake Conan permalink
    07/02/2018 1:28 am

    This is something I need to remember every single day!
    Definitely needed this today!!! Thank you for posting and allowing us to start our day right

    Reply
  38. Nicola Quinn permalink
    07/02/2018 2:12 am

    I love the idea of thinking of February as a time for re-birth. It’s perfect for looking back over January and re-evaluating all the New Years resolutions we always set!

    Reply
  39. Amanda Kanashiro (@glutenfreemiami) permalink
    07/02/2018 3:15 am

    Your posts are always so interesting. I always find something to take from them. Today it was “You cannot reap what you did not sow.” The photographic selections are beautiful, as always.

    Reply
  40. drewandtrishstravelsandadventures permalink
    07/02/2018 3:25 am

    Change is difficult, but without it “there is no room for growth”. This is so true. Last year was my year for change and it was painful, but I made it through and am happier because of it!

    Reply
  41. Rosey permalink
    07/02/2018 4:19 am

    I agree, it does take time and practice to tap into that inner core. As is with so many things of great importance. 🙂

    Reply
  42. Marcella's Mind (@marcellamind) permalink
    07/02/2018 5:00 am

    I like reading motivation Monday posts, my favorite part is of the transition that is so true.

    Reply
  43. Tracy Campbell permalink
    07/02/2018 5:52 am

    Eliz, you’ve made February brighter. Loved the poems and photos. 👍

    Reply
  44. Autumn permalink
    07/02/2018 6:31 am

    Your writing always inspires me and your photographs are amazing. Thank you.

    Reply
  45. Mary La Fornara (@itsaboutpretty) permalink
    07/02/2018 7:19 am

    February has always been a favorite month of mine. Maybe because I happen to live in a state that really does not have seasons like most other states (Southern California). Maybe because my favorite holiday is in this month. I’m loving all the motivation you have provided, I can’t wait to delve into them.

    Reply
  46. dcvaughan permalink
    07/02/2018 7:37 am

    I love this post! I agree that February is a wonderful time of transition. Everyone always thinks of January a time of major transformation, but I always appreciate the calmness of February after all of a hullabaloo of the holidays is over. It’s closer to Spring (another great time of transition!)

    Reply
  47. Monique Elise permalink
    07/02/2018 7:47 am

    I agree transitions are scary, but they are necessary for growth.

    Reply
  48. Christie Moeller permalink
    07/02/2018 8:09 am

    I really enjoyed this one. Yes for me Feb is always a time of change- or I guess anticipating it. Knowing its coming but its not quite here yet. Its always a little uncomfortable…waiting!

    Reply
  49. Sue Tanya Mchorgh permalink
    07/02/2018 8:37 am

    Another awesome post. I agree transitions most times are very difficult because as you said we do love being comfortable. i am learning how to transition and how to accept changes. Love this post.

    Reply
  50. Esme Sy permalink
    07/02/2018 10:24 am

    I agree, staying motivated is the real strength. This also applies to adapting to changes. I see a lot of inspirational words here.

    Reply
  51. Flora the Sweaterist permalink
    07/02/2018 10:42 am

    Ooh I love that you added poetry to this post <3
    I agree that February is about transition. It's especially so at this moment in my family. We are transitioning from one phase into another. Hoping that with the spring, also comes hope and positivity.

    Reply
  52. Wendy Polisi permalink
    07/02/2018 12:20 pm

    Transitions can be pretty interesting sometimes. I do however love change.

    Reply
  53. Josselyn Radillo permalink
    07/02/2018 12:33 pm

    One of my favorites post! for me any transition is easier if we believe in ourselves, our talent and on what we are doing.

    Reply
  54. annerbananer1 permalink
    07/02/2018 12:48 pm

    I totally agree that transitions are tough, especially at this dreary time of year. But we have to push through in order to better ourselves in the long run!

    Reply
  55. Eva permalink
    07/02/2018 12:57 pm

    I really like the poetry you chose for this post. All of it really spoke to some of the aspects of this transitional month!

    Reply
  56. Kristine Nicole Alessandra permalink
    07/02/2018 2:18 pm

    Transitions bring out growth, so we must accept these changes with open arms. January was not a good month for my family healthwise. Hoping that February would be better.

    Reply
  57. swood97 permalink
    07/02/2018 5:23 pm

    I love the winter months and the short month of February is probably my favorite winter month. Of course I live in Georgia so our winters aren’t really that harsh typically. So much poetry refers to winter as being dead but the photos reflect a much brighter perspective. I prefer to think of winter in a positive light.

    Reply
  58. Rose Mont permalink
    07/02/2018 5:41 pm

    I like the stay motivated to do the heavy lifting. I do agree that Feb is when the real winter happens but seeing it as a bridge to March is a nice mild compliment.

    Reply
  59. Traveling Shana permalink
    07/02/2018 5:56 pm

    I adore your shots of the winter scenery. There is something comforting about fresh snow on the ground.

    Reply
  60. Theresa | Bridesmaids Confession permalink
    07/02/2018 6:23 pm

    I love the quotes. I do feel like winter is a time for reflection. You can allow yourself to take a break.

    Reply
  61. Kesha permalink
    07/02/2018 9:01 pm

    I am usually open transitions and changes in life. In fact, this season of my life has presented so many new and different things for me; however, I haven’t adjusted well. I have been sick nearly every week and it doesn’t seem as if I can get back to consistent good health. I know this is temporary and mostly due to me not getting proper rest. I love how you said that we need to let go of our need to be in control. This is definitely a problem I have. I need to let go of some things and I’m sure I will start feeling better. This post was a reminder for me of what’s really important.

    Reply
  62. Lakesha permalink
    07/02/2018 9:01 pm

    I am usually open transitions and changes in life. In fact, this season of my life has presented so many new and different things for me; however, I haven’t adjusted well. I have been sick nearly every week and it doesn’t seem as if I can get back to consistent good health. I know this is temporary and mostly due to me not getting proper rest. I love how you said that we need to let go of our need to be in control. This is definitely a problem I have. I need to let go of some things and I’m sure I will start feeling better. This post was a reminder for me of what’s really important.

    Reply
  63. Dee Clarke permalink
    07/02/2018 9:15 pm

    What a lovely post. So full of hope, gratitude, and promise. A beautiful reminder to hang in there because spring is around the corner.

    Reply
  64. Indrani permalink
    07/02/2018 10:25 pm

    Very inspiring post. I like the collection of quotes in this.
    Absolutely helpful to sail through February.

    Reply
  65. Jill Fickling-Conyers permalink
    08/02/2018 1:29 am

    The snow looks so beautiful in photos but in real life, day to day, not so much. February for me is one month closer to spring.

    Reply
  66. Sophia 🚀🔬📰 (@chitownchica) permalink
    08/02/2018 2:43 am

    I needed this today. Going through some big transitions in my life and they have me second guessing a lot of things I once thought I needed or had to do.

    Reply
  67. Joanna permalink
    08/02/2018 2:45 am

    I am trying to keep motivated and to wait for the moment when winter will transition towards spring. I have been sick during this winter more times than ever, I seem to have been catching the worst viruses… and hoping that the cold weather will end soon and that the warmth will come soon motivates me to find through the fever.

    Reply
  68. Candy Rachelle permalink
    08/02/2018 2:48 am

    This looks so motivating. February for me brings beautiful warm days here in our place. Thanks for sharing this!!

    Reply
  69. Anna permalink
    08/02/2018 4:59 am

    I agree transitions are the most difficult times of my life too. However, with determination and discipline, I am able to move forward. Slowly but surely getting there

    Reply
  70. Kansas Bonanno permalink
    08/02/2018 5:04 am

    This hits the nail on the head. I think February are the hardest month. It’s cold, your stuck inside most of the days and tensions are high as you try and prepare for tax season. Trying to make time for yourself to breathe is often hard and it really gets you stuck in a rut.

    Reply
  71. Chronic Wanderlust permalink
    08/02/2018 6:02 am

    Thanks for sharing this with us! I really enjoyed the different poems too

    Reply
  72. Amy-Lynn Vautour permalink
    08/02/2018 6:12 am

    I love February. The days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter, I know it’ll be a while still, but the spring is coming soon and, for now, there’s a ton of snow to go out and play in! Sure, it’s been cold and dark for a while, but we’re on our way out of it – how exciting!

    Reply
  73. Lisa Rios permalink
    08/02/2018 6:24 am

    We all go through periods of transition that are difficult in our lives. It’s important to look within to find our strength.

    Reply
  74. Janella Panchamsingh permalink
    08/02/2018 7:20 am

    I always look forward to reading your monday post for motivations, this week for some reason i think of the warm weather that I am anticipating this year.

    Reply
  75. alainamonster permalink
    08/02/2018 8:40 am

    A transition is something I really struggle with for the simple fact that I feel the loss of control. It’s something that I really hope to work on this year. I just need to trust the changes of seasons of life <3

    Reply
  76. Patricia G. permalink
    08/02/2018 8:48 am

    I agree that if one does not lay a firm foundation, they will not be able to withstand transition and change. That is why it is always best to prepare for the future, and all its known possibilities, so that when change comes, you will be prepared. I do get tempted into delving back into the status quo too, and I do resist change. But now I am more at peace with it.

    Reply
  77. Betzy Cuellar permalink
    08/02/2018 10:31 am

    February is my birthday month, and I feel it’s a time to have a fresh start.

    Reply
  78. nausheen1shaikhgmailcom permalink
    08/02/2018 10:50 am

    Awesome motivational tips as usual….sometimes people get too depressed in their lives but few words of motivation & inspiration with positive encouragements means a lot to them !!

    Reply
  79. Corina permalink
    08/02/2018 11:46 am

    I find the way you described February within me right now and reading your post has been quite a motivation for me since I’ve been looking for things to make me press forward…

    Reply
  80. Rachael b permalink
    08/02/2018 12:53 pm

    I love how encouraging and open minded you are! Surly we need more of that especially on Monday’s!

    Reply
  81. Kristine Nicole Alessandra permalink
    08/02/2018 2:01 pm

    Changes. Transitions. These are part of the process to reach our goals. I need to learn to embrace change because I admit, I am a creature of habit, scared of what is outside my comfort zone.

    Reply
  82. diana permalink
    08/02/2018 2:17 pm

    I’d say this is a post that inspired lots of peace to me. February is here and I’m so happy that today, finally, when I finished my working day, it was not completely dark as before!

    Reply
  83. Kim @ Berly's Kitchen permalink
    08/02/2018 2:49 pm

    I love the short poems you’ve included in this post. I remember studying Longfellow in high school and college. He has some incredible work. The poem by Margaret Atwood is also very beautiful. Both are so fitting for this month of February!

    Reply
  84. lexieanimetravel permalink
    08/02/2018 4:10 pm

    Another motivation monday heart moving post from you. I especially like the poem by Henry. I agree that transitions leads to rebirth, it’s just like right now in winter the forest seems dead but beneath that outside appearance is a breathing living (trees and plants) that will surely come out in spring.

    Reply
  85. Candice permalink
    08/02/2018 4:45 pm

    I absolutely love this photo set <3 I never mind the gloom in February because I always know spring is near and I do love seeing snow <3

    Reply
  86. Rachel permalink
    08/02/2018 5:11 pm

    These are some beautiful pictures. February is definitely a time for change around here especially with the weather.

    Reply
  87. Calleigh @TheForkBite permalink
    08/02/2018 5:59 pm

    The month of February can be the most challenging month of the year yet, this is a short month in which we can be proactive.

    Reply
  88. wmfjones75 permalink
    08/02/2018 6:03 pm

    I feel like January lasted 6 months and that February is fleeting by at a quick clip. I really liked the quote on the February born. My youngest has a birthday next week and this fits her well.

    Reply
  89. Melanie Poulos Walsh permalink
    08/02/2018 6:28 pm

    I was so pumped with the new year, setting goals and feeling like I could take on the world. I still feel the enthusiasm, but trying to break the old habits can be tough. This is my season of transition. I’m hoping that the sprinklings of spring that are beginning to pop through will remind me to stay vigilant.

    Reply
  90. EasterBabe permalink
    08/02/2018 10:30 pm

    These are some great photos and poetry for February! It’s definitely a month filled with cold weather and full of love.

    Reply
  91. Jagriti Roy permalink
    09/02/2018 8:15 am

    I never thought so much about the motivation connection of that time in a year. Ending of February requires to implement all those promises you have made during the winter time.. It’s really motivational as the February is going to leave us in few days…

    Reply
  92. Khushboo Motihar (@kbmotihar) permalink
    09/02/2018 9:02 am

    February By Margaret Atwood used to be my favorite poems. I am glad to reread it after such a long time. Have a great weekend 🙂

    Reply
  93. RonRon permalink
    09/02/2018 9:09 am

    Transitions ain’t easy. This post of yours truly covers the meaning of it.

    Reply
  94. Nati permalink
    09/02/2018 9:11 am

    Having born and lived most of my life in the southern hemisphere, February still evokes an endless summer in my mind! Down there, summer break starts early in December, and school doesn’t start until March, as it is so very hot. The begining of a new year and a new school years coincide, so there is in January and February a real break, an opportunity for newness! When I came to study here in Switzerland, January and February had such a “continuity feeling”, it felt terribly weird for me, it felt there was no real pause/break between one year and the next. Now that I have children that go to school here, I live that strange feeling of continuity again.

    Reply
  95. Preet@thevelvetlife permalink
    09/02/2018 9:54 am

    This is such an interesting work, I agree foundation needs to be strong and it takes practice to develop the inner strength to weather all storms. All the quotes are so well suited and depict the realities of life.

    Reply
  96. Ruthie Ridley (@RuthieRidley) permalink
    09/02/2018 1:20 pm

    I have been loving this month so far!! Loved these quotes

    Reply
  97. Rica Eslais permalink
    09/02/2018 8:15 pm

    I love your poetry and everything is on point. It reminds me of Sophy Banks’s phrase: “Transitioning to a more compassionate, conscious future is a journey of both outer changes and inner ones.”

    Reply
  98. itsnadianelson permalink
    10/02/2018 6:58 pm

    I defintely agree! I always use the winter months to prepare for the change. Change that is always necessary. Like spring cleaning, I use the beginning of Spring as the time to start my transition. Winter gives me time to think and plan, since I am not doing too much.

    Reply
  99. kanishka permalink
    10/02/2018 8:46 pm

    I never thought of February in this manner. Every faces storms in their lives but it only makes us stronger to face another. I love how the change in the weather gives us new hope for changes in our lives.

    Reply
  100. Angela Ricardo Bethea permalink
    11/02/2018 3:37 am

    What an awesome post. Transitions at this time of year are exactly what I look forward to. Love those motivational quotes.

    Reply
  101. Kyla Matton Osborne permalink
    12/02/2018 2:49 am

    I really enjoyed the Margaret Atwood poem. I always love her writing!

    Reply
  102. Cia Black permalink
    12/02/2018 3:58 am

    You are right about storing stuff in boxes, and tucking them away. Often I don’t open them unless necessary for me to do so. I don’t know what drives my transition guess it depends on the path in which I am seeking to take.

    Reply
  103. Ivonne permalink
    12/02/2018 5:16 am

    What a beautiful post about February! I would love to love February however being Canadian, it has been snowing for 3 days nonstop and freezing cold! Right now I would have a different perspective on this bleak month if I lived closer to the equator!

    Reply
  104. Erica permalink
    12/02/2018 7:17 am

    I’m lucky because we don’t get true winter where I live. I’ve actually worn shorts in the last few weeks. But we still do get the darker days. And this can make me more introspective. And it’s nice to have reminders to be more mindful in my life.

    Reply
  105. NicoleShillings permalink
    12/02/2018 8:52 am

    I need a little motivation right now. I hate February. It’s up there with January as my least two favorite months. I’m sooooo over winter and ready for spring!

    Reply
  106. Nadine Cathleen permalink
    12/02/2018 9:10 am

    I enjoy reading your quotes. You always have such a good selection of them! A very thoughtful summary of February.. makes me appreciate the month even more 🙂

    Reply
  107. Brittney Moses permalink
    12/02/2018 10:34 am

    I love the idea that this month represents transition and what you said about inner strength being built up like a muscle. This was so inspiring! Thank you for sharing

    Reply
  108. wendie permalink
    12/02/2018 10:59 am

    I hope that the universe delivers all that you need this February.

    Reply
  109. Jen ~ The Tipsy Mama permalink
    12/02/2018 11:31 am

    I am not a winter person, so any month between November and February are definitely not my favorites – but I hadn’t ever thought of them as “necessary” to bring about the beauty of Spring, Summer and Fall. Thanks so much for the different perspective. 🙂

    Reply
  110. Dorit permalink
    12/02/2018 12:39 pm

    As usual your Motivation Monday is inspiring and invites to reflection. I like your proposal to take this month of February to think about transition, change and growth. Resilience is so important in order to consider change an opportunity rather than a threat.

    Reply
  111. Andrea R Warren (@WaldorfFries) permalink
    12/02/2018 2:11 pm

    WOW, so much inspiration here in your post. thanks for keeping the rest of us motivated

    Reply
  112. wanderlustbykelley permalink
    12/02/2018 3:36 pm

    Beautiful post. Transitions are difficult but I always enjoy the new journey that they bring.

    Reply
  113. lavandamichelle permalink
    13/02/2018 12:10 am

    When I look at the February of my past it is packed with so many of my own life changes. Like winter, some where cold and bitter, yet the sunshine always shine brightest when the streets are filled with snow. Transition can be hard and like winter, it best to be prepared for it.

    Reply
  114. Amanda Joynson permalink
    13/02/2018 11:57 am

    I am a sucker for hibernating in any of the winter months! This February has been no exception to the rule. Loved reading the poetry.

    Reply
  115. ohmummymia permalink
    13/02/2018 1:25 pm

    Those pictures are beautiful and really motivational. I love February 🙂 I have my birthday in February 🙂

    Reply
  116. Bhushavali permalink
    13/02/2018 3:00 pm

    I can totally relate to the feeling that transitions are very very difficult. That’s coming for a new mom here!!!

    Reply
  117. Blair Villanueva permalink
    13/02/2018 10:46 pm

    Most of the time it is hard to adjust from February maybe because is the shortest month. Your post is making me inspire to create my version.

    Reply
  118. Rochkirstin Sioco 👑 (@rochkirstin) permalink
    14/02/2018 4:21 pm

    True enough, Valentine’s Day is not just about caring and love significant other or family but also yourself. Looking to yourself in the mirror and learning how to appreciate the self more is also an act of love.

    Reply
  119. Nadia permalink
    21/02/2018 4:40 pm

    I really like the poetry pieces you’ve included into this post, Elizabeth. I cannot wait for February to be over and for spring time to start. Must be winter blues.
    xox Nadia (Miel and Mint blog)

    Reply
  120. Evelyn, PathofPresence permalink
    27/03/2018 4:34 pm

    Love the poetry, and the energy of this post as it mimics the solemn dark and (frigid) cold days February can bring. Your note of its severity reminds me that without the darkness/cold/bitter, we would not so appreciate the light/warmth.sweet. ❤️

    Reply

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