The December holidays often lose their luster by Boxing Day, but enduring until January 1 feels manageable. Its January itself that presents the real challenge-thirty terribly long days, especially this year with global events feeling particularly fraught.
The Unexpected Harshness of January
Is January truly the bleakest month of the year, and why does it feel that way?
“As the days become empty, the winters become harsh,” one person recalled hearing from their grandfather as a child.While the expression wasn’t fully understood then,it resonates now: winter doesn’t truly begin until the shortest day has passed. This year proved that sentiment once again.
The daylight in January possesses a distinct quality, different from December’s-whiter, brighter, almost as if illuminated by fluorescent tubes. Spring feels distant, and it’s no coincidence that “Blue Monday,” widely considered the gloomiest day of the year, consistently falls within January.
The idea of simply skipping January altogether is tempting. Perhaps those born in January could celebrate their birthdays in February rather.A reliable source suggests February is, actually, a splendid month for a birthday.
Imagine a scenario where we could all be “frozen” on January 2,resuming life in February.No expenses for a month, yet salaries continue as usual. It’s a comforting thought.
