The spring (or springtime) is not only one of the four seasons, but also primarily the time after the “dark” season, during which most people are aware of how much they miss the sunlight. In addition, this is the moment in “our lines of latitude” in which we – irrespective how many springs we’ve lived through – become fascinated with the new and fresh things that nature literally provides us with: with consequences and in a blaze of colour. These levels of strength and energy following nature’s winter hibernation also provide motivation for humans. So it’s no wonder that the best time for our emotions is spring.
When will it finally be...that's right: Summer Often sung about and missed, and yet longer than you think. Maybe this is also due to the fact that in our climes, we are more inclined to count the rainy days than the sunny ones. The fact is that in summer – whether it’s cloudy or sunny – we get more sun and therefore more daylight. Also, this time of the year sees us have lower levels of winter depression – who'd’ve thought?!
He who sows the wind shall reap the whirlwind? Autumn is harvest time, whether or not there's a whirlwind! During this season, the force of the sun is not only visual and tangible, but can also be tasted. Many people use this season to “soak up the last of the rays”, or to “store up some sunshine”. Although these may sound like platitudes, there is actually more instinct behind them than you think, as the days become tangibly shorter once again.
Time for tea, candlelight, cosy evenings in front of the box, and excitement about every flake of snow that might fall from the sky – this is what winter means to some people. Others see it as the start of the “dark season”, of cold feet, clearing snow, and little light. However, the word “winter” actually comes from Old High German (“wintar”), and means “shining (time)”. It seems we all agree on one thing though: that little bit of daylight which we get in Europe at this time should be enjoyed to the max.
