The long scorching hot Summer came and went and if I’m honest, I’d say uneventfully. That’s not a problem in my book. Uneventful means I’ve had moments of clarity, of peace and of quiet. The birds are singing just now, and it is reasonably cool out in my little corner of the world. The Chinese Elm in my back yard is speckled now with yellow leaves that soon will fall. At this time of year, I am always reminded that the trees just let their leaves fall. It is part of their existence – their nature. Funny it is that we humans hold on to things…memories, stuff, and thoughts, thoughts and more thoughts. When we can muster a moment of clarity and let things drop away and become even more clear, more grounded and even more grateful, we can flow more easily through the stream of the elements and Seasons that make up our experience of life.
Fall winds here always seems to bring change. Those Fall winds are blowing now and soon
into the season too. I remain curious
about the changes going on around me.
Some changes are uncomfortable because of the unknown aspects of
potential consequences but some changes are good bringing relief and an
opportunity to refresh, begin again, usher in new thought and energy. While uncomfortable for a time, I’d like to
think that change is ultimately good – whether wanted or unwanted. Pivotal
moments where lives and paths intersect always bring the possibility of change
and growth. Well, the growth-part is a choice we'd be wise to make. I am okay with change even if it feels uncomfortable for a time. If I
dig in my heels and resist, the only soul I’d be hurting is myself and I have
vowed time and time again, never to intentionally cause self-harm! We can't really fight change in our lives - time marches on - a constant.
The seasons of my life have brought me much that I am so grateful for. I stand much more confidently in my own skin these days and so the changes blowing all around me aren’t something that I get overly concerned about. If I walk back through my memories, I can clearly see that change has been the one very dominant constant in my life along with breathing – up to this point. It is part of my awareness and existence. I am constantly reminded to appreciate all that I have experienced and to cherish the good and bad alike. It is all part of my experience of life on planet Earth. Although I am very aware of the change thoughts running through my mind this morning, I intend to just breathe, remain curious and hopeful – grateful – committed.
Coffee consumed and first morning chores complete (feed the doggo and the kitty cat), I now must return to the routine of my day. I’ll do so contemplative today. I feel it already. I have much to wonder about. I have much gratitude yet to fully appreciate and I’ll keep that in mind throughout my day today. At this moment in time, all is well, no major concerns or worries and I intend to appreciate a day off of my work-a-day world. I have learned that I am well prepared and grounded enough and with trust in my ability enough to face whatever consequences of change that I encounter. I have proven myself resourceful, thoughtful and capable of pivoting quickly if need be. I think that is the beauty of experience and growing older in this frame. When you look back and recount all of the things and situations you have faced and mastered, you begin to develop very strong trust in yourself to face your life with an ever diminishing sense of fear and angst and an ever growing sense of strength, wisdom and confidence. I love that. I hope what ever change blows your way brings you the courage to stand and face it standing tall in your skin with curiosity and confidence. You’ve got this. Have a lovely Fall! Enjoy every turn of color, gently falling leaf and hopefully, gently changing temperatures that don’t shock your system!
© J.L. Harter, September 2022 (photo and words)
