As the greatest part of the United States is under the spell of the so-called “Polar Vortex“, people from Georgia to Minnesota are reaching for metaphors and other ways to describe the indescribable cold weather that has settled in around us.
Many have taken to You Tube with videos of themselves throwing boiling water into the cold abyss, as if creating their own snow was some kind of miraculous new thing.
Others have turned to other social media sites, sharing “selfies” or photos of themselves barely visible beneath the layers of clothing they have donned to prevent the cold from getting in. Photos of sad canines in boots and sweaters have been a hit as well.
There are the photos of vehicle thermometers recording the subzero temperatures, and the photos of backyards and buried patio furniture to record images of record snow drifts. There are also the multiple warnings to keep children and pets indoors. (HEED THEM FOLKS!)
And then, of course, the cynics come in and admonish us all for being so ridiculous.
But lets face it. Weather events like this are unusual, and if not for sharing about in a giddy way with our friends, how are we supposed to endure it?
You would think an artist would have more inspirational thoughts than most on the matter, but I confess, my Polar Vortex social media posts were mostly like everyone else’s. I expressed frustration about my truck being frozen shut and joy about the warmth of my new kitten Mia.
The truth is, Nature is artful enough without my input. Despite the brutal cold, the beauty of snow and ice is stunning. As we gasp for air that is breathable, we also gasp at the sheer wonder of Nature’s unbelievable power and beauty.
So the artist’s perspective is not much different than that of anyone one else.
Follow the wisdom of those who give guidance for enduring the brutal cold, share your experiences with those you love, and enjoy the wonder of Nature’s immense power.
That is the artist’s perspective. What is yours?
Whatever you do to survive the Polar Vortex, enjoy the Adventure!
