Joys of Autumn Change
Be the change that you wish to see in the world. — Mahatma Gandhi
Every year, a moment arrives towards the end of summer when I suddenly notice that the days are getting shorter and cooler. Within a week or so, I feel the first nip of autumn in the air. Although I know it’s coming, I’m amused that I'm never quite sure if I am ready for this change of seasons. It causes me to reflect on life and its many changes.
Like it or not, change is a part of life – in our relationships, our home life, our work, our finances, our physical or spiritual existence. Just like the seasons, sometimes we don’t notice the changes until they are upon us. Because our lives seem to be moving ever more rapidly in a fast-paced, chaotic and confusing world, change can be slightly alarming and even unwelcome. We may not realize that as life is speeding by, we can actually choose how we will respond. It is possible to accept the arrival of change as a gift; an opportunity to pause, and step outside ourselves.
During a period of transition, a ray of clarity may shine through and open our eyes to how precious life is. In our moment of pause we may see that our lives have become sloppy, that we aren't being careful about how we spend our precious days. We might not be paying attention to what we hold as sacred.
Indeed, life is brief. It's sobering to think that there isn't endless time left to live. Perhaps that thought could inspire us to use our time well. If we lived our life as if we only had one day left to live, the sense of impermanence might intensify the feeling of preciousness and gratitude.
Although change may seem frightening, it can also provide new opportunities for growth. Perhaps we can affirm that we are learning, we are filled with potential. Maybe we will gather wisdom from our life experiences and live a transformed life.
Yes, we face change every day, and we are always in transition and have no idea what life will be like in the future. But just as we can embrace the beauty of a slow summer evening as it turns to a brilliantly hued autumn morning, we can learn to appreciate our own changes, make good choices, and live our lives fully and meaningfully.
· What are changes that you are facing in your life?
· What do you want to do with the precious time you have left in life?
Live life fully and meaningfully.
Joy Carol