Age influences how society views the onset of winter. Three categories appear with each age revealing passionate feelings regarding winter; some welcome it with excitement, and others succumb to it with dread.

Children and adolescents view winter as magical, and it promises new adventures while signifying the approach of winter holidays. They eagerly build snowmen, and snow forts with great excitement. Snow balls fights ensue and snow angels suddenly appear. Crazy carpets, sleighs and any object that slides is valued by the adventuresome child. Snow sports are pursued with a frenzy; ice hockey, skating, skiing and snowshoeing are great entertainment.

When maturity takes hold, winter still has the power to mesmerize the adventuresome adult, and some still prefer invigorating sports for recreation. Most adults greatly anticipate the oncoming holidays, and for some the added eagerness of watching their children's response to each new holiday is extra thrill. Snowmobiling, skiing and skating is favored by the young at heart and take precedent over crazy carpets; while ice fishing, snowshoeing and dog sledding is thrilling to others.  The less adventuresome may prefer to sit in front of a roaring fireplace with a entertaining novel, or perhaps snuggled in beside a loved one enjoying the warmth, the flickering flames, and hot coco.

As age blossoms, winter is met with resignation and dread by most elderly adults. Winter activities now take on a stressful new meaning, and each holiday is mainly met with quiet reservation. Family gatherings provide a great sense of entertainment and enjoyment. The eagerness and adventure that once welcomed winter,  is merely a memory; gradually this change in season begins to signify a mobility barrier, and begins to make everyday activites a chore. Some adults face immense difficulty from persistent aches and pains due to cold temperatures, and the deep snow, that was once a pleasure, now creates huge challenges and at times even isolation.

With new insight into each generations perspective, winter takes on a deeper meaning. Take a moment to stop and realize the little pleasures in each winter's day as life's journey progresses, then take time to reflect and treasure each one. If the arrival of winter is still an adventure, then cherish every minute. Take pleasure in each holiday, in family time, and in activities that brighten soul.

Written by Batnuni