Emergence of Autumn ©

As I look outside of my window, I see rain clouds in the sky, snow on the mountain tops, the hills still green but laced with colorful trees which are changing gradually. This is the first sign of autumn, as summer has quickly left us with cooler temperatures, less hours of sunlight, and the promise of a new season. At night the stars and moon shine brightly, after a glorious sunset, which appears different and more spectacular each time I see it happen.

With the emergence of autumn, another season holds the promise of new adventures, challenges, pondering of what life holds in store for each of us. It is exciting because we are offered another portion of time, with much to look forward to, not knowing what to expect. I look at the unknown as a fun adventure, and with a positive attitude. God gives us something new each and every day.

There is something new and glorious about each season, but autumn is one of my favorites, although one of the shortest seasons. I always look forward to taking rides to see the colors change; how the hills come alive with orange, yellow and rust colors, with the darkness of the mountains as a back drop, only starting to be capped with bright white snow. I could stare at that picture for hours, but revel in each moment of time given to me to enjoy this glorious show of nature, season after season. I can only pray that next year, I can watch this process happen again, as nothing is taken for granted, especially life on this beautiful earth.

God has painted a gigantic picture for us to behold, enjoy, see, touch and love. If only more people can take moments from their busy lives, stop fretting, complaining, hating, fearing, or feeling hopeless, they will be able to see the possibilities that God and nature has given them. More than ever, it is a time to relax and appreciate what we have, whether it be abundance or very little. Autumn is free to everyone, and guaranteed to be offered without our being asked for anything in return, other than to nurture and care for it, as well as for each other. Each time you look outside of your window, smile because what you see belongs to you and all of us.

Written by Linda Andrusko

Dear sis Linda,

I can see you sitting there looking at the mountains from your home and writing this. I do not have the view you do, but since I am nestled in amongst the tall, noble evergreen trees, I am content. As the wind lashes against them today, the dried needles from our rather parched summer here fall, and the mess now on the ground for clean up, I still smile. As a special someone remarked, who shared some time with me today, "it is like watching snow fall only a different color, texture, but still profoundly pretty in its way of things". As you so aptly put it about the attitudes we have, I could moan about the mess or relish in the fact that, like leaves, this is creating space for renewal for next year on the bows of these beautiful evergreen trees. I am sure the performance has gone on for centuries, and will continue on with time. While the sun is out, tiny rain drops also fall, so the whole thing very unique to the senses, when one takes the time to notice, embrace, and treasure the moments.

As the red, golden leaves refuse to give up their home as yet, I am sure, when the winds return, they too will relinquish, and as they fall and clean up needed, I will remember to remain grateful for their life and cycle of giving, as I thank the Creator for such splendor and colors on the canvas of living.

Thank you for allowing the muse, and the release of this beautiful, thought provoking writing. As always, you have captured so much to pass on to others.

Sending much love,
sister Dara