Upheld In Late Summer

I’m not sure these are the lazy days or even the dog days of Summer—ok—Autumn. This is surely the time when everyone is outdoors as much as possible trying to soak in those last rays of sun before the weather gets cold again.

I visited my son’s family over Labor Day weekend. One day, we went to the lake. It was a beautiful sunny day, but that Autumn chill was in the air. There is a certain “look” to the sunshine when it changes, too. Must be that turn on the old earth’s axis.

 

It’s interesting to note that at this time of year, people are frantically trying to hang on to the last vestiges of Summer fun. It’s such a short season here and it goes by so fast.           

I reminds me of the seasons of the soul. Spring is so full of promise and we feel like anything can happen. And it usually does—one way or another. We cling to the Summer when, at the end, time is moving us into another phase of living.

Autumn brings with it a glorious explosion of color. The days are warm and crisp. What a wonder this phase can be if we can just let go of what has gone before. We have been prepared for this time. It can be a whole new place of discovery, accomplishments and brilliance. Maybe this is the place where legacies can be built to last.

At the end of Autumn comes a wrap up time. Projects must be finished and put to bed before Winter’s darkness sets in. Plants grow roots then, or lie dormant getting the rest they need for the next growing season. While still enjoying the memories of the past season, mulch the ground now, and get the plants of your heart ready.

Winter is the preparation time. It’s dark, but it is in the darkness that the most beautiful things are equipped for the next growing phase. Surprises–like the sun dancing on the snow–do happen sometimes in the long cold spell. Yet, a time of resting readies the soul for the next burst of energy to come.

Just some random thoughts as I wave goodbye to this season of Summer and welcome the beauty of  Autumn, all the while I am aware that snow is on the horizon. I have to go now. Got to prepare.

“Preach the Word! Be ready in season and out of season …” II Timothy 4:2.