Not everyone likes winter, I get that. It’s cold. Wet. Icy. It’s awful, right? Wrong. As cold and wet and icy winter is, it is by far the best season of all the ones our bipolar state goes through. “Why do you even like winter?” is by far one of the most horrid questions anyone could ever ask me. What do you mean why do I like winter? I should be asking you why you don’t like winter. For the poor unfortunate souls that don’t experience winter like me, I am sorry you were seriously deprived of the seasonal experience as a child, and I hope I can provide you with some glimmer of hope of winter fun for the future seasons to come.

Coming out of the dreary season of fall when there’s nothing to do, we are presented with a season that provides a promising outlook for fun. To begin with, for those of us who are lucky enough to engage in winter sports, we can finally get out our snowboards and skis and hit the plethora of slopes we have in this wonderful state of ours. Large resorts aren’t for you? Don’t worry, there are some small ones too for a cheaper cost. Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? Not to worry, purchase some lessons and you’ll be flying down the hills with the veteran board sporters in no time. Michigan also features cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, ranging anywhere in length. So whether you’re looking for an intense sport or a relaxing glide in the woods, there are several options for winter fun.

Even if winter sports aren’t your thing, instead of being a grouch and complaining about how there’s nothing to do, pick up a sled or even a cardboard box, find a hill, and entertain yourself by going down it a few times. Maybe even build a snowman or have a snowball fight. So now, you cannot possibly tell me that there’s “nothing to do” in winter. Still questioning my apparent insanity or don’t feel like getting hit in the face with a ball of icy snow? Don’t worry, maybe I’ll convince you soon.

Not only does winter open the gateway to fun in the snow, it even provides a cozy time for indoors. You cannot seriously tell me that sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, and watching the snow fall outside isn’t relaxing. And if you try to, don’t think for a second I won’t call your bluff.

Well if that still doesn’t have you reconsidering the awesomeness of winter, here’s my last attempt to bring you from the dark side. Christmas. Who doesn’t like Christmas? It doesn’t just mean presents and candy canes and pies. It means watching the Christmas movies you grew up watching, spending time with family, and giving back to others. I’m sure anyone could find something to get into the Christmas spirit without looking too hard. Go to a soup kitchen and give back to those who can’t help themselves, I promise it will be one of the most rewarding experiences you could have. Spend time with your family making Christmas cookies or sharing memories. Watch every single Christmas movie you can. And you can seriously not tell me you don’t like snow on Christmas day. Now, if you’re still not convinced, I will be forced to think you are the ultimate Scrooge and should probably look to find some Christmas cheer in your life instead of spreading Christmas jeers.

We live in a place where we have the opportunity to experience the best of all four seasons. People need to realize the different things that we can do during the snowy seasons and take advantage them. The teenage years are considered “the best years of our lives,” so why not take advantage of everything we can and try as many new things as we can? So pull yourself away from the TV long enough to appreciate what the winter season can really bring and pick up that makeshift cardboard sled or grab a ladle and go help out at the soup kitchen.