A Hiatus Can Feel Like a Warm Blanket You Never Want to Leave

But eventually you have to come back to reality

One of the places I’ve been since taking some time off is a farm out in East Texas. Photo from the author’s collection.

I didn’t mean to take time off from Medium or from writing. It just slowly happened. In the past this has been a sign of depression, but this time it was the result of a general taking-things-slow attitude I’ve had this season.

I’m in a new relationship and savoring every moment. I’m in school and managing grad school hours with full time work and parenting.

I’ve done a lot of self reflecting in the last two months, and I’ve come to the conclusion that I do want to keep writing — I need to. My mental health depends on it.

I’m not depressed, but if I don’t start actively writing again, I could easily slip into depression. Still, if I overwhelm myself with an enormous to-do list, the same will happen because I’ll be burnt out.

Even if advertisers and department stores would have us believe otherwise, winter is a slow season. It’s a time for hibernation and shorter days. It’s a time for being home and cuddling up with loved ones. When you’re alone the cold can feel bitter.

I’m grateful for my relationship because I don’t have to spend this holiday season alone like last year. I’m grateful I have someone to keep me warm on the coldest of…