Longreads has published hundreds of original stories—personal essays, reported features, reading lists, and more—and more than 13,000 editor’s picks. And they’re all funded by readers like you. Become a member today. Erika Howsare | Longreads | July 10, 2025 | 5,859 words (24 minutes) I am agnostic about many things, but not about spring. It’s holy—what could be more obvious? I remember an April day, age 11 or so, staring out the window of my mother’s house at the intensity of new green in the lawn.