The polar vortex has created a diverse effect among many cities across the country. Cities with usually mild or moderate temperatures are now experiencing adverse extreme weather. Amidst the high winds, snow, and ice, the need for changes and adjustments seem to have pulled everyone into a state of disarray.

Schools have closed, meetings cancelled, deliveries suspended. Traffic is now known as an anxiety zone filled with muddled thoughts of how fast one can drive to make it to work on time, while maintaining enough traction to prevent collision with the 18-wheeler across the lane. Others are working long hours in anticipation of the car repairs that may be necessary due to the potholes.

Most disturbing, perhaps, is the coldness of our attitudes. It is as if it is easier to frown due to all the reasons that we have to be upset. We spend our free time counting down the days until spring. We record the later sunsets and carefully scrutinize the decision of a groundhog.

After all this we find ourselves empty. We cannot eat enough, wear enough, pay enough heat bills to stay consistently warm. In this season of extreme weather, it may be easier to engage in extreme behavior, venting your frustrations, on your family, friends, roommates, etc. never acknowledging that we all want to be warm. Instead of flipping off the neighbor that stole the only plowed parking spot, exchange hugs with a loved one. Instead of sleeping in because school is cancelled, go to a local soup kitchen and volunteer.

Most of all though, instead of complaining of declining temperatures and wondering when it will warm up, find something to be grateful for. Live in the present to prepare yourself for a better future. Our bodies naturally create the most warmth when we are huddled close together. The more people we can love and show compassion towards this season, the more we not only warm someone else’s heart, but we also warm our own.