It's always winter
When trees look alike
With all their leaves 
cast upon the ground
When it's not easy to see
the quick from the dead,
Until the sun shines,
When buds burst forth
When blossoms appear
When fruit ripens
When it's easy to see
Spring is near
And summer not far.
 

The Shepherd, 3rd Parable,
Hermas, A.D. 140