Sunday, September 25, 2011
The best part of Autumn is…
It could be the colors, bold against the tame gray sky; or the cool, damp air that makes you shiver deep inside; or the hot drinks—the coffee, the cocoa, the cider—that gently calm those shivers one at a time until they subside; or the Lake (I swear She smells different this time of year) on a brisk afternoon as She crashes against the breakwall in Her fury (or joy—I’m not sure which); or the geese in perfect form as they head to their southern homes.
It could be that it’s time for school, and all the neighbor children play together as they wait for the bus; or that it’s almost time for a birthday—another year older!; or that Thanksgiving approaches and I have to find a fine selection of snowmen for your Grandma; or that it’s time to start binding journals for Christmas.
It could be the apples (oh, how I love them!), or the tomatoes, or the two stubborn strawberries that are still ripening this week in spite of the chill; or that first scent of snow, crisp, cold and unmistakable; or that first magical snow fall—a covenant of all that is yet to come—that makes us smile with wonder; or the cold that bites at your face, chasing away your breath as you gaze upon a clear night sky.
More than any other season, Autumn—to me—is an image of change. It is never exactly what it was the last time you looked. It is never exactly what you expect. It is always faster or slower than you want it to be. It is always, always, always on its own terms. The best we can do is enjoy the show, I think.
The same is true of life. It never happens the way we want or expect, but it always happens with color and fury (or joy…and joy) to mesmerize us, if we will but open our eyes. Even the difficult changes will, in the end, reveal a beautiful story of God’s love.
So what is the best part of Autumn? Well…Autumn is, of course!
All my love,
Aunt Sarah
Somehow, advanced age produces a macroscopic overview supplemented by long experience. As leaf juices depart, (leaving the remaining reds/yellows) I perceive the sap’s investment for winter nutrient survival and it’s resulting sweet syrup for the hardy spring harvester – my all time favorite sweetener – and not just maple either
You always have a different perspective, Dave. I like that.
Autumn blessings to you and yours!
I rememer your POV well, Sarah and respect it. Your courage in exposing yourself to this medium is to be envied – may it point others to Christ as their Kinsman Reedemer and Savior. Please keep your eyes on Him – all others will dissapoint…………………..
“may it point others to Christ as their Kinsman Reedemer and Savior. Please keep your eyes on Him”
Amen…and amen.