Today, as we continue our examination of cold seasons, I’d like to point out that they can be lonely. Maybe you went from a position of leadership or connection to one of isolation, and you no longer feel connected to the people who used to bring you joy. Whether it was a move, the loss of a job, a funeral, or a disagreement with relatives, loneliness may plague you and distort your perspective on life and situations. For instance, a place or pastime that used to bring you joy can now serve as a painful reminder of what you’ve lost. It’s excruciating.

Yosemite is one of my favorite locations in the world, and I consider myself fortunate to have it “in my backyard.” I go there at least once a year, usually in the spring, summer, or fall, when the sun is shining and there are crowds and sometimes even traffic.

My Grandpa Scott died several years ago at a ripe old age, and he happened to live in Coarsegold, a small town just outside of Yosemite National Park. I drove up for his burial, but I decided to arrive a day early and spend the night in the valley; however, it was winter at the time. Half Dome was covered in snow, there were no cars on the road, and no one was around. It was both creepy and lovely at the same time.

Friend, this is how our lives’ winters may be: frightening and beautiful at the same time. Loneliness is unavoidable in such circumstances, but it can also be a blessing. The dampening hush of your challenges can wipe away the noise and rapidly crystallize what’s vital, just as falling snow offers a blanket of serenity and quiet to the soil. Introspection creates an inner peace that could not have been created in the spring or summer months. Even amid your loneliness, there is a blessing that God wishes to disclose to you this winter. He is with you now, and He is shaping you to be more like Him, so that future seasons of warmth will be even more joyful and fulfilling!