by Sr. Sheila Campbell MMM                      Ireland                                        25.09.2024

Earlier this year I was watching the daffodils shooting up out of the ground. They came early this year at the beginning of January. But instead of making me lament about our climate crisis, I began to think about the process of hibernation itself. Why do some plants and animals hibernate anyway? What is the advantage of lying still in a cold dark place for a prolonged period, often for many months?

As I was asking myself these questions, I had another ‘lightbulb moment’. Have I not had these periods of hibernation myself. Oh, on the surface I was all business as usual. I can put on a good face. But inside at times have been what I used to call the “fallow periods”. These are times when I am not particularly productive or creative. I follow along, cling to routines and somehow the time passes. I am neither into belief nor unbelief, dutiful rather than ardent, a disciple rather than an apostle.

What is the purpose of hibernation? In animals, bears, for example, go into hibernation in the winter months when food is scarce. Maybe it is the same with us – I go through a ‘fallow period’ when the inner food that nourishes my soul is not available. Instead of lamenting these periods, I need to relax into them, knowing that God is actually giving me a spiritual rest period! Sometimes it helps to talk to someone. Sharing the experience of hibernation often is enough to re-kindle energy. The other person provides the “food” I need to come out of hibernation. It can also be comforting to know that other people go through the same experience at times!

Sometimes I pick up a favourite book or listen to a well-loved piece of music. But often I am called to just twiddle my thumbs and wait and wait.

So, let us thank God for the gift of “inner hibernation” and just ask God to keep us company as we sit in the darkness and wait it out.