Why We Need Seasons

As a species, humans have a very normal reaction when things are going well.  We enjoy the moment and hope that the good times will continue for as long as possible.  There are many cynical people who in this situation will wonder when it will end and what the downside will be, but overall positive times are usually very welcome in our lives.  Another thing that occurs is that people begin to forget the difficult times that preceded and what they had to do to deal with them. 

Having a positive attitude about most things is certainly a much better way to go through life than being negative and cynical about everything, even good things, but it does pay to have a realistic view of things which will prepare us for the inevitable downturns that occur in life.

Hopefully the majority of our experiences are positive ones that we cherish and remember fondly, however, understanding that there are cycles or seasons, and that they are vital to growth can help us cope when things turn around.

A simple example would be seasons of nature.  All four seasons are vital and can provide positive experiences.  Summer is fun because it is warm and the weather is usually fair, but too much sun can create drought and the need for rain.

Autumn can certainly be considered a fun season, where we can still have experiences outside, but it is not as hot and we often need to put on extra layers of clothing.  Winter is the same; we know we need to bundle up because of the cold temperatures, but there are many exciting things that can only be done in the winter like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, ice skating and sleigh rides.  Winter also allows hibernation and gives nature a well-deserved rest until Spring comes and the growth cycle starts again.

Economic seasons are the same; when the economy is booming and money is flowing freely, we are happier and forget what it was like when times were leaner.  Eventually the economy will slow down and there are recessions.  This allows the money system to rest and reset itself.  Very high prices for things like homes are reversed and more people can afford things.  Eventually there is a “spring” and the economy begins to turn around and grow again.

If we can remember that the changing of seasons, cycles and economies is a normal, necessary and healthy process, we can prepare for the inevitable ups and downs and know that in the long-term things will be fine.