Like many of you, fall is my favorite time of the year. My son thinks it's a bit morbid as it's a time for things to die. Perhaps there is beauty in death after all. That is certainly true of Christ's sacrificial death for our sins. Although bloody and brutal, it ensures everlasting life and life more abundantly whilst on Earth. I don't really associate fall with death however. For me it is a vibrant and exciting time to be alive. Summer's oppressive heat gives way to cool breezes, shocks of red, orange and yellow leaves, and the best holidays of the year. I even love the time change, although I really wish we never had to change at all. I always feel like I get more sleep when the days get shorter. I'm sure that's just a perception, but perception is what gets me by most days. Even rainy days take on a new warmth when the chill keeps you inside wrapped in warm comfortable clothing and compels you to sip hot beverages. Have I waxed nostalgic enough yet? Don't even get me started on bright orange pumpkins, burgeoning cornucopias, and fried sweet potato pies as I am already bordering on sensory overload.
Metaphorically, fall is a time for reflection and preparation for the cold barren months of winter. Can one really prepare for such a season amidst the plethora of harvest? I suppose to a certain extent one can prepare, but not fully. Sitting on the beach on a perfect summer's day, I try to savor the moment in an effort to capture the essence of the sublime. But, life and time are fleeting. The warmth and sunshine inevitably give way to cold and clouds. That is also indicative of life. Motherhood's mantra is, "This too shall pass." As a young mother of four children close in age, this got me through the tough times, and reminded me to savor the good times. As my children are now beginning to leave the nest--no worries, I still have two left--my motto has changed. "For this season" is what resonates with me now. Time is precious, but our loved ones are more so. Sadly, I have taken the time I'm allotted on this planet for granted (honestly not trying to rhyme here).
If I can proffer an encouragement here, let it be this: take the time to savor this season, even if it's not a particularly wonderful time in your life; acknowledge that every good gift comes from the Father above; know that "this too shall pass", and most of all--embarrass your teenagers while you have the chance. Trust me when I tell you that if they haven't already, they will return the favor. Then when they think you can't get more boring, take a walk with them, carve a pumpkin, and treat them to a warm over-priced latte.
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