Tooth Chilling

Walking down the street. It's about 35 degrees Fahrenheit in December. It's approximately 5:45pm and the sun has set. Tall buildings stand beside, in front, and behind me with the wind sweeping through every alley, block, and corner. Kaytranada is coursing through the wires of my headphones and into my eardrums. It's cold, tooth chilling, and things aren't what I expect them to be. My emotions aren't what I expect them to be. Having it all doesn't equal happiness. I wonder what it takes to not be numb to sadness, frustration, and anger. I wonder what it takes to be a "perfect" person. That doesn't matter though. Things truly aren't what they seem. "Things" is a vague word. Dry, unforgiving wind is misunderstood. It's actually quite refreshing and nurturing. It reminds you that every part of your body is alive. You feel more. You are reminded that your toes, legs, fingers, and teeth feel. These moments are happiness. You are a being and though that can be scary, it can also be quite simple in its complexity. All that matters is the moment that enraptures you, the moment that makes you forget that problems exist. In no way is it a denial of the daily issues that one faces, rather, it's a moment in which you can feel yourself glide through the pleasures of your mind. Yes, your mind can be scary as well, but it, too, can be simple in its complexity. It is full of wonder. For now, just breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, so you can see your icy breath. Look up and out. Feel the movement in your fingers slow and listen to the sweet sounds of someone else's artistic creation. See every light, car, and person. See every building, window, and star. See every dead tree branch sway to the music of the air. Appreciate the 15 seconds you must wait before crossing the street. Feel cold. You are alive, and in this moment, you are happy.