Beginnings

“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” ~Fred Rogers

Earlier this week I drove past a row of maples that were just beginning to show blushes of red. At that moment, the reality of summer’s end struck a melancholy chord on my heartstrings.

As much as I love fall, it also signals the end of carefree summer days — and I can’t help but think of autumn as a metaphor for aging. Several people I know have lost loved ones over the past year, which only adds another somber note to my reflections.

How many seasons do any of us have left? Are we spending our time wisely and well? Are we worrying and complaining, or finding happiness and satisfaction where we can?

In the old Celtic traditions of my ancestors, autumn marks the end of the year. But today’s quote reminds me to think of the harvest season as an opportunity to look ahead, to start something new, to start over. What will you do to welcome another season in your life? ~CL