Winter in My Bones


Shanghai FEELS cold during these wet winter days. Much colder than the thermometer declares. It’s as if winter here is an inside-out affair. Starting in my bones, spreading icily throughout my body before creeping into the surrounding air. Makes me wonder if I am Old Man Winter. The chill maker himself.

Growing up in Vermont, I’m not unused to cold. But there the weather was outside. The cold was something that could be fought against with layers of clothing and a wood-burning stove. Sure, the cold was sometimes was so severe it assaulted my bones, but that was only when it was especially bitter and pushed through the layers with heavy winds. It creeped up slowly while waiting for the bus and could be slowed by stomping my feet or swinging my arms in circles or running away from the bus stop bully. There was always something I could do to fight it.

But sitting here with winter in my bones there seems no recourse. I’m not just cold, I AM the cold.


Be well,

Monty


6 Comments

  1. Kathleen says:

    You express this so we’ll!

    Liked by 1 person

  2. I know exactly what you mean! January here was cold, damp, drizzly and foggy which is very unusual for us in this part of Canada. I literally felt like I couldn’t warm up. Last week was bitter cold, but sunny which was a huge improvement for me.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Monty Vern says:

      Yes, I think the dampness makes a big difference!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. It definitely does. There were times in January that I thought I was back in England.

        Liked by 1 person

  3. murisopsis says:

    A wonderful contemplation of winter! We have warmed up (its 56F) and it feels so balmy that there was a woman out walking her dog in shorts!! I am not so easily fooled by winter!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Monty Vern says:

      When I first read your comment I saw “a dog walking in shorts” haha. Thanks for reading!

      Like

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