Spring is on Her Way

Last weekend’s weather was wonderful! When the sun shines so brightly in the Nordic winter, it feels as precious and mesmerizing as a diamond—how could I not go outside? I wandered aimlessly, and upon finding a spot bathed in sunlight, I simply stood there, closed my eyes, and let myself sink into the warmth. At that moment, I felt pure happiness.

As I walked toward the city center, I suddenly noticed tiny flowers emerging from the grass. Surprised, I exclaimed, "Spring is here! Spring is finally here!"

This year, spring seems to have arrived earlier than last year. Is it because this winter wasn’t as cold? Regardless, after enduring nearly four months of winter, spring has come at last. Spring may arrive early or late, but it never fails to come.

Speaking of seasons, this time, let’s talk about the four seasons of Gothenburg, following the rhythm of time. But where should we begin? Let’s start with spring, since it is the season of renewal, warmth, and blooming flowers. Just like in the rest of the Nordic region, Gothenburg’s Spring is a delightful surprise after the long winter, filling people with hope and joy. The city bursts into life with cherry blossoms dancing in the air—I have seen them near the Faculty of Humanities and in the Botanical Garden downtown. Though cherry blossoms are breathtaking, their bloom is fleeting. So, whenever I see them swirling in the wind, I close my eyes and make a wish.

In May, I once saw a magnificent spread of rhododendrons near the Faculty of Humanities. It was stunning! If you’re nearby, I highly recommend taking a 30-minute lunchtime walk around the pond—it’s the perfect way to shake off the morning’s fatigue.

What leaves the deepest impression on me about spring is its incredible vitality. Why do I say that? I remember my first long Nordic winter, staring at the bare trees and wondering if they would ever be lush again. But when the first buds appeared, they began growing with unstoppable energy. Every day, they looked different. Every day, I marveled at their resilience—such vigorous life! Perhaps winter is nature’s way of giving them a well-deserved rest.

After spring, we step into the beloved Nordic summer. People say that in summer, Scandinavians are the happiest people in the world. The weather is perfect—not too hot, not too cold—with clear blue skies and a gentle breeze. The city’s green spaces become lively; people lay out picnic blankets, chatting with friends and enjoying the sunshine. Of course, spending time alone with a good book and some snacks is just as wonderful. Summer is vibrant and fleeting, but by filling it with simple joys, perhaps we can slow down time—just a little.

But the arrival of summer is bittersweet for graduates. This summer, my friends and I will have to say goodbye. While parting ways means stepping into new chapters of our lives, this farewell may also be the last time we see some people and this city. Every time we talk about it, my friends and I feel a deep sadness. But thankfully, we have shared so many beautiful memories. Farewells teach us to cherish the present and appreciate those who are by our side.

Now, let’s talk about my favorite season—🍂 autumn. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to experience this year’s Gothenburg autumn. But last year, it was stunning. The trees turned golden before transforming into vibrant reds, then slowly shed their leaves, covering the ground like a golden carpet. As autumn began, I started lighting candles. With daylight hours shortening and nights growing longer, the candlelight added a touch of warmth to the darkness.

Autumn is romantic. Walking through the forest or along the lakeside with friends or loved ones, gathering handfuls of leaves and tossing them into the air like a child—it’s pure joy. What I love most about Sweden is how nature and life blend seamlessly. If you have the heart for it, nature is always within reach.

But romance is fleeting, and the transition from autumn to winter feels like the blink of an eye. The first winter in the Nordics can be challenging for newcomers. The endless darkness, rare glimpses of the sun, and unpredictable mix of rain and snow can make one feel lost in the cold. Besides taking vitamin D, I have a piece of advice: surround yourself with warmth. Meet up with friends for a cozy weekend brunch, watch a movie, curl up with a book in the corner of a café, or have a drink at your favorite restaurant.

Take a walk through the city and admire the beautiful holiday lights. Many homes will have warm lamps and candles glowing in their windows—have you ever felt comforted by those soft lights as you passed by? Winter may be cold, but I hope you find warmth in small, unexpected moments.

Now that the time for farewell has come, I realize that every season in Gothenburg is beautiful in its own way. As Rodin once said, “There is no lack of beauty in life, but a lack of eyes to see it.” But perhaps it’s not just about the eyes—it’s about the heart. It’s about paying attention.

May we all be people who notice beauty in the world around us. And may the warmth within us spread to those around us.

Grace