The Black Hills Change of Seasons

Mountain Garland, Elegant Fairyfan

The Black Hills Change of Seasons

​Yesterday, I began to see things in a new way. It was a break from work and an unusual opening. Time to catch up, I thought. A text came through inviting me to  Sol Yoga again, and this time I said yes. Why not? It marked a line in the sand from work to self; it's a good thing I did. When you love what you do, that can get blurry. 

It's the first year since 1991 I've been a part of the entire seasonal change. I forgot or never really noticed the effect it has on people. When someone often reaches back to the longing for the change of seasons, you hear a description of color, life, death, cold, beauty, smells, and sounds. All wonderful, but something is missing that neither they, nor I could put my finger on. 

Yesterday that changed. I could see it. Evident as a stand of bright yellow aspens or the daffodils of spring. It was us. The change that occurs in us with the change of season. As if we are just observers was the old way of thinking, but I see it now as a participant. 

Quite a few people I've met in my new home of Rapid City occurred in the winter months. It is beautiful here with wide-open spaces and sunny days in cold weather, but winter is a time of hibernation. Biological beings in the Black Hills slow and prepare for the necessity of a seasonal reset. So do we. It is a time of inwardness and reflection. 

As springtime works tirelessly to connect winter and summer, we have moments of confusion. The tulips come out of the ground one day to be covered by snow another. Yet, spring continues putting winter to rest and awakening summer. What a job!

The Black Hills and Badlands remain beautiful all year and directly impact everyday life in Southwestern South Dakota. As if we are separate from nature, one might rejoice in the emerald green color of the fresh buffalo grass or the return of the wildflowers with the Pasque leading the way, yet be unaware of the changes within. 

I've forgotten the effect on us, on me. Spring seems to provide and encourage new growth. Inside our bodies and minds, nature is calling for a deeper connection. Friendships seem to come naturally and with smiles. It is the fertile soul that awaits the seed. Not looking at the summer, but ever-present at the moment, awaiting limitless potential. What I put there will grow. The spirit is the most fertile ground of all. So this year, I've planted friendships and big ideas. They're beginning to sprout, and those I come in contact with are in a receptive mood. 

Daniel Milks

Owner of My XO Adventures, explorer, human and occasional writer.