What to make of the Winter Blues?

I wrote this post a few months ago, and never posted it. I didn't think it was perfect, so I wasn't happy to put it out into the world; entirely reflective of my mindset during that time. The endless pursuit of perfection kills all genuinity.

January has been going on forever, and the magic of European winter has worn off. Prospects of job hunting, flat hunting, and new friend hunting is starting to wear me down, and I am determined not to become a victim of hopelessness. There is nothing to do but to wait this long winter out, to find little pockets of warmth and joy. I am but forced into a reflective state. 

Over Christmas, I spent 10 days in Norway, travelling from the North to the South. It was so beautiful and completely incomparable to anything I have ever seen. Isolated, untouched (is anything in this world really untouched?), and unthinkable for some to live in such temperatures. Naturally, Norway becomes an idealised, imaginary state, free from the perils of the human condition. A utopia, in the complete opposite sense that the New Zealand is. Both places are isolated, either by climate or physical distance. Stories are told about someone’s friend of a friend who visited. The people are tight-knit, dislike tourists, and nature is valued above all else. You are taught to appreciate, and learn from the people who have adapted to these lands. I do not feel at home, but I could, in an odd way. 

The cold holds many secrets, and has a lot to teach, if you are willing to listen. Bundle up warm and venture outside. Succumb yourself to Nordic time. You never know what you might discover. 

Hannah <3