Living in a region that has four distinct seasons, I have my favorite elements of each season. In the winter, it is the crunch and the sparkle of the snow that delights me every time. In the spring, it is about being outside in the crisp fresh air that is no longer too cold and the joy of flowers sprouting and trees blossoming. In the summer, it is the joy of gardening, my kids running through sprinklers and a slower pace.

And in the fall, undeniably, it is the beauty of the leaves--especially when walking on my university's campus.

The thing about fall leaves is that they come and go so quickly. There is that process of starting to change where much of the leaves are still green, while others are turning. By the time they are in full color, many are falling.

The reminders linger though--whether it is the leaves on the ground or pops of color still present on some trees while others lay bare.

I love how the seasons reveal aspects related to the process of growth and healing--a process that entails patience and pacing. A process that cycles back around as we gain new insight through familiar rhythms. A process that teaches us to savor what is, while also learning to surrender transition points. A process that teaches us it is ok to long for what recently was or what will soon be, while recognizing that doesn't mean we need grasp or clutch. In fact, we realize that we can delight even more deeply based on transitions over time prompting greater appreciation of our favorite aspects when the seasons come back around.

Seasons teach us to embrace the present moment and hope for what is to come. What a gift!

Questions for Reflection

• What are your favorite aspects of each season? Which aspects of the seasons bring comfort, excitement, and joy?

• How does the physical environment where you live point towards the process of growth and healing? What new insight are you gaining about seasonality as the years pass?