Sparkling

          Yesterday morning as I was readying myself for work I heard the weather folks say “It’s foggy out there – turn your headlights on and be careful.” I walked out the door and the sun was shining brightly here in Dodgeville which meant the fog had already lifted and everything was gloriously covered in ice crystals and glistening in the sunlight. I grabbed my camera and took off for work…with a slight detour through Governor Dodge State Park. My intentions were to just drive through the park and take a couple pictures from the side of the road if something struck my fancy. Of course, the hillsides were singing in splendor and as I pulled over to take my first picture I realized I couldn’t just stand on the side of the road – I had to get in there up close to really see the delicate dazzle. Luckily my mom taught me to always carry boots in the car, so I put ‘em on and stepped off into the snow, which, by the second step, was over my knees (so much for the boots!) I’m a snow lover so I pressed on and was happily snapping pictures left and right until I couldn’t feel my legs because my pants were completely frozen.
          As I drove out of the park I was grinning from ear to ear (between scooping handfuls of snow out of my boots) because the morning had been a complete surprise gift of the serene beauty that can only come after a winter fog. A gift of the most perfect kind. As my legs thawed I was grateful that I had thrown caution to the wind and waded through the deep snow to see the intricate ice patterns on the prairie grasses and leaves. It was only by convening with nature in this up close way that I was able to grasp the true magnificence of the “sparkle” I saw from a distance. The slight discomfort of the snow was well worth the sense of awe I felt.
          As is often the case in life I find that sometimes I have to just “get over it” and jump into something in order to truly understand and enjoy the experience. And yes, it’s often hard to do…well, hard to start. (Usually once I’m “in” I realize it’s actually easier to be part of the activity than just watching and wondering!) At Folklore Village we understand the value of participation. And yes, we will happily let you sit and watch if that is your comfort level. But know we strive to provide opportunities to let you delve into a tradition so you too can experience the power of its sparkle.
Melissa
P.S.  If you'd like to leave a comment, please be sure to include your name!  (I won't approve them unless I know who they are from...sorry!)