Changing Seasons

I grew up in the Midwest of the United States, where the seasons were clearly defined. Summer and autumn were precious.

After moving to the West Coast over 25 years ago, it took several years before I could see the 4 seasons of each year. Although not as vivid as in the Midwest, the 4 seasons come and go, with subtlety and beauty.

These are the days of autumn. Here in Northern California, autumn days are often sunnier and hotter than summer days, which can be foggy until mid-afternoon. Sometime at the end of August, though, summer days give over to the heat of the autumn.

Our lives have seasons, too. Sometimes the seasons are clearly marked: a child goes off to college, we greet a new grandchild, or we lose a life partner. Sometimes the seasons do not change with clarity: slowly we see lines forming on our faces, and one day, looking into the mirror, we see wrinkles that remind us of our parents' and grandparents' faces.

What season of your life is this? Some seasons of life are quiet, some are filled with busy, important tasks and never-ending lists, some seasons are marked by sorrow, some by joy.

Spend some time today reflecting on this season of your life. Give thanks.

Warmly,
meb