I was only thinking the other day – how much I change with the changing of the seasons. As we move from Summer – to Autumn – my mind is already – almost – ‘changing tack’.

Work in the garden is winding down – freeing up more time to spend on other pursuits – and I am starting a new ‘interest’ – and trying my hand at ‘painting by numbers’ – anticipating those cooler – shorter days to come.

I find myself – ‘tuning in’ – to those inevitable changes – and I seek to adjust even to the pace of life – as the length of each day shortens.

Much as I love those long – sun-filled days of Summer – I welcome this next season – knowing that it will bring with it – it’s own particular beauty – and a uniqueness of it’s own – for – as this quote puts it – “To be interested in the changing seasons – is a happier state of mind – than to be hopelessly in love with Spring” – and – I always find – that looking forward has it’s own rewards.

Of course – thinking of the changing seasons – reminds me of the similarities – to life. For I look back – and see so many ‘seasons’ that I have passed through – the seasons of lightness – and joy – of darkness – and sadness – with all the variations in between. But then – I also see – those more defining – ‘seasons of life’.

I have passed through the ‘Spring – of my childhood’ – that time of so much growth – as the seeds that were lovingly sown in my life – began to bloom – and show the promise of what was to come. I treasure those memories – and am grateful for those who ‘tended that garden’.

I remember with fondness the ‘Summer – of my youth’ – seeming to last forever – bringing forth so much richness to my life – as I experienced new situations – and expanded my horizons – seeing growth all around.

Then came the ‘Autumn – of those middle years’ – that letting go – and embracing change – even preparing ‘the ground’ – ready for others to grow in – and not ‘fretting’ or worrying – about the passing years – learning from the trees – as this quote expresses it – “All the trees are losing their leaves – and not one of them is worried”

And now – I have entered into – ‘the Winter years – of older age’ – yet – it doesn’t fill me with despair – for winter has it’s own purpose – making way – for new seasons to follow.

In this winter season – I’d love to think of my life as this quote describes the ageing leaves – “How beautiful the leaves grow old – how full of light and colour – are their last days” – and that’s how I hope others will see me – ‘full of light and colour’ – in this season of my life.

As I continue to change with each season – I remember that – “Change is inevitable – seasons change – people change – we change – and things are changing all around us. Change brings on growth – preparing us for our next season of life.”

And – so I – “Go forward with faith and courage – embracing every change – with hope filled expectation” – recognising the uniqueness – and beauty – that is always present – in every season.

Blessings – Lois