No Two Snowflakes Are the Same
December 4, 2023
Writer: Eve Collon
Editor: Carly Schneider
A white spec graces my sleeve with its presence. I hear some people in the distance scoff at the idea that we’ve reached the misunderstood monster that is a Michigan winter, but I find myself smirking at the memories of building snowmen with my childhood neighbors and staying up late with my sister after hearing that the superintendent called for a snow day.
I gaze at the white spec on my jacket sleeve and begin to notice its fragile arms, sparkling center, and one of a kind structure — and then, it melts. Just like that, within a fraction of a minute, it’s gone, faded away into the fabric of my coat.
Each snowflake that falls differs from the last. When we are lucky enough to encounter an individual snowflake, we should take time to notice the unique qualities rather than the potential imperfections. We cherish the enchanting glistening features, the pointed ends and the rounded corners, the way the crystallized structures glisten and grin up at us.
When we recognize the way that millions of flakes come together to form an ethereal covering on the ground, we appreciate the togetherness of it all; though each snowflake is uniquely beautiful, together, they are a mesmerizing wintery wonder.
It is no secret that life moves rather quickly, and sometimes, it melts away before we have the chance to absorb the enchanted environments around us. So while experiences — or snowflakes — are in front of us, we need to focus on the present to truly cherish them.
Before that snowflake on your jacket melts, appreciate its beauty, study its intricacy, and allow it to simplify the meaning of life around you. You might feel small in this intimidating world, but remember that you contribute to your environment in one way or another, even if it seemingly goes unnoticed. In the event that you make a mistake, which shamelessly happens to everyone, know that the Earth will continue to revolve on its axis and your life will go on without any major interruption.
With all of this being said, appreciate the distinct qualities of others because they won’t be around forever. Laugh at the stories that other people share, admire the passion in the goals of those around you, and absorb the sunshine that seeps out of personal connection. Before the soul inside of you melts away, take the time to exercise gratitude toward not only the environment that shaped you into the unique figure that you are but also toward your individual role in uplifting the community around you.
