When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

-Wendell Berry

My favourite aspect about living in the Netherlands isn’t first world luxuries or proximity to other countries (I do like these things, but they aren’t my favourite)-- rather, it is how there are parks and greenery to be found absolutely everywhere. Even within an industrial city packed with houses and people, you can find nature and peace within walking distance. I also adore the distinct seasons and I’ve come to appreciate every single one of them. When summer gets too hot (let’s be fair, that’s usually only the last month of summer) I long for autumn. Autumn is glorious and goes by quickly! But then winter starts and the beautiful lights come on. Everyone cozies up. Come February you’re longing for the temperature to go into double digits and to see the flowers again. Spring is just awe-inspiringly wonderful with creatures nesting and flowers blooming. Each season is yearned for and welcome. What a joy it is to live here!