Header image for: SNOWFALL A STARK REMINDER: SELF-RELIANCE IS KEY!

SNOWFALL A STARK REMINDER: SELF-RELIANCE IS KEY!

By Ronald Peabody · 12/2/2025

A Chill Wind Blows – Are We Prepared?

Grand Rapids woke up this morning not to a gentle snowfall, but to a reminder. A reminder of the harsh realities of a Michigan winter, and frankly, a reminder of the need for self-reliance. These aren’t the cozy, picturesque snowfalls they show in the holiday movies, folks. This is weather, and it demands respect.

The sky is a solid, unforgiving gray, and the temperature is hovering right around the freezing mark. They're calling for snow showers throughout the day, and believe me, I've already seen a few flurries. Not a blizzard, mind you, but enough to make the roads slick and the commute… challenging.

Now, some folks might whine about a little snow. They expect the plows to be there instantly, the roads to be pristine, the world to stop because of a few snowflakes. But I remember a time when people took care of themselves. We shoveled our own driveways, helped our neighbors, and didn't rely on handouts.

The forecast isn’t letting up anytime soon, either. More of the same predicted for tomorrow, and even Thursday, while “improving,” is still looking chilly. This isn’t just about discomfort, it’s about preparedness. Do you have a snow shovel? A good winter coat? Enough non-perishable food in case things get…complicated?

We can’t always rely on others to take care of us. A little foresight, a little elbow grease, and a healthy dose of self-reliance – that’s what will get us through this winter, and frankly, through a lot in life. Don't just sit there complaining about the snow. Get out there and do something about it. And maybe, just maybe, appreciate the rugged beauty of a Michigan winter. Even if it is a bit of a nuisance.