After long last, the quiet pond is reflecting back, the image of the ever changing world around it. It's a sure sign of the receding strangle-hold of the slumbering passive giant - winter, that had frozen an image of the pond's own misery on its face.
The giant had descended about 5 months ago as a chilly breeze that left a sheen of frost on blades of grass. From there it grew every day, freezing lakes, ponds and even the lazier rivers. Wiser denizens of the land had either fled, gone underground or surrendered. Birds and retirees flew South. Some animals hibernated in subterranean refuges. Trees stripped off all foliage in surrender and feigned death.
To all the rest, the cruel justice of the giant was meted out. Mere existence was considered rebellion and punished. Numb toes, frost-bitten fingers, and faces that feel like rubber masks are just some of the hurts inflicted by the evil twins accompanying the giant - wind-chill and snow.
But, as stealthily as it had arrived, it recedes. No climactic territorial battle was ever fought. Spring with summer in its tow started taking baby steps to assume control - slowly thawing life out. The trees playing dead up until now began to sprout small buds on their tips at the admonishment of spring to regain decency and dignity that was lost in the onslaught.
Birds are also returning with stories of faraway lands full of warmth and sunshine. Unable to contain their excitement, they chatter their tales incessantly awakening burrowed hibernators.
For now, all kinds of life will blossom and bloom. We will just pretend that this time the giant is gone for good.
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