We’ve come to February. This is what I have come to call “The Dregs of Winter.” If I can generalize a bit, I’d say most of us are now “officially” tired of winter, the chill, the winds, icy walkways and sidewalks, driveways, and elsewhere, and still too little sun. There, I’ve done it, framed winter in a (temporary) negative light. Now, that’s out of the way. Do you agree? I know there are folks out and about who love all (or most) of what winter is and represents, and there can never be too much winter for them. I’m not in that camp, less so as I age (and particularly now, as I am recuperating from spinal compression fusion surgery from a month ago).

But of course, there’s more to come. Four? Six? Eight weeks more of this weather pattern and the emotions that rise and fall with it? So, we’re not done yet, though one can be optimistic and say that at least we are half-way through. This calls on us, if we’re among those already ready to move on, to please present our patience, tolerance, steadfastness, and equanimity to carry on. What lies ahead? Well, most immediately: mud season! Then, spring will spring, and we will once again say that “spring has sprung,” and all too quickly … then time for that grand glory of the year … summer (some will then want to look forward to winter at that point).

So, these are mostly the “givens.” We have absolutely no control over any of it. It plays how it plays, and it is we who must adapt, manage, and negotiate what we are given. What we do have a full measure of control over is one thing: our attitude toward what still remains of winter (and everything else, along with that). I must ask: how will we, how will you and I, make it through winter? Here are some of my considerations and reflections for your review and critique.

Indoors can be good and wholesome, too! There are still games to play, soups and hearty foods to cook and indulge in, maybe get an early day or two in for early spring cleaning, and, of course, some late winter TV binge-watching too. There’s never a shortage of things to read, either. And invites go both ways — visit a friend, have them come to you (don’t overwork yourself cleaning and neatening if that’s not your highest priority).

We can retrain our brains to experience the bracing cold as healthy and even refreshing. Be out there for brief(er) periods of time — and double up on the outerwear knowing that we’re talking temps in the mid-30s and well below. (If you are a dog-caretaker, try to take on their attitudes towards running in the winter; perhaps temper it a bit, but at least notice it!)

Be thankful that time does go forward and each day brings us closer to something else. Change is inevitable, and sometimes, just sometimes, it is wholeheartedly positive! Each day gives us another full two or three minutes of light (it adds up — that’s 15 minutes or so each week!). But don’t only future-spectate … the calendar is indeed a given, but try as well to stay rooted in this day, as the future doesn’t exist, yet! Enjoy the knowing-ness that whatever the weather is at the moment, “this, too, shall change …” (That’s not just New England, it’s everywhere, except, perhaps, San Diego!)

Having fun and connection and engagement within our huge range of human endeavors is a year-round thing. So dig in, dig deep if necessary, and unearth or replay those experiences that bring you passion, maybe chuckles or laughter, or the satisfaction of a collaborative project begun and completed … or blow it off for the moment and find something else to feel good about. It doesn’t all have to be heavy and intense and hard all the time, anyway — even a few moments of respite and relief can make a difference.

How about trying something we used to do as kids or younger folk? Write and send a card to a friend, or remember a birthday and sing that “Happy Birthday” dirge (perhaps a bit more up-tempo!) into the phone (or computer), giving it a new rhythm, melody, or harmony – just for the fun of it!

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I’m not saying to blatantly ignore that winter is still around – it is! But there’s so much we can do either because of or in spite of it. It will still be there when we have completed any (or many) of the above, but our attitude may have shifted, even if imperceptibly at first, but again, that’s completely up to us. Let’s not be stilled or so ruffled or agitated that we cannot find ways to lighten our load, and our hearts. So, for now, enjoy the coming of winter’s second half, and hold the knowledge that spring is a day closer every day.

Daniel Cantor Yalowitz writes a regular column in the Recorder. A developmental and intercultural psychologist, he has facilitated change in many organizations and communities around the world. His two most recent books are “Journeying with Your Archetypes” and “Reflections on the Nature of Friendship.” Reach out to him at danielcyalowitz@gmail.com.