This is my 2nd winter in western Massachusetts, also known as The Berkshires. I marvel at the silence of the snowfall. In the middle of the night, I even look out the window to see if there is snow on the ground. I find it completely amazing the way that the snow changes the landscape of my neighborhood, and the city around me.
We all have seen a snowy landscape in photographs, movies, on tv, in picture books and paintings. However, seeing it up close and personal is at once beautiful, sparkling, but also stark,and filled with shades of gray,black and brown.
I am still intimidated by driving in the snow...so to me, the Snow Plowers are magical people with a truck and Snow Plow, that work to keep the streets clear and easier to drive.
At night, if there is snowfall expected, (I think like 3-4 inches) the Snow Plowers come out to work in the middle of the night. They often come work in the morning, as early as 6am.
Until I moved here, I did not understand the wonder of what the Snow Plowers do; I do now. The Snow Plowers clear the roads in our neighborhoods, on the intricate and narrow streets, up steep hills, and back down again. (I actually have seen them drive the trucks in reverse.)
In some places, the city's Public Works Department does the snow plowing. In some circumstances, independent Snow Plowers clear the neighborhood streets, roads and highways. I see the Snow Plowing from the practical level, which is that people need to be able to travel safely to their jobs,schools, and to get around town. I also see it from the level of "Clearing the way of obstacles." "Making things smooth and accessible."
Seeing people who work to make life a little easier for others is beautiful.
When I was a little kid, I wanted to be a professional whistler when I grew up.
Now, I want to be a Snow Plower when I grow up.
Thank you to the Snow Plowers, I am grateful for you and your work.
-Kim
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