Fall
The past few weeks we have transitioned into the new season of Fall or Autumn. I have never really paid attention to the beauty of Autumn until about three years ago. If someone would have asked me what came to my mind when I thought of Fall I probably would have said: brown leaves, the weather getting cooler, going back to work, or summer coming to the end. Prior to three years ago, I saw Autumn as a quick bridge to Winter; where all the “exciting and fun” events started happening.
I had never taken the time to recognize that in a season that brings lots of transitions such as children going back to school, educators going back to work, and the weather becoming cooler (well on some days-NC heat varies-lol), there are also so many beautiful things that transforms during this time.
During Autumn the world tends to start to get back into a natural rhythm after a busy summer, so the slower pace is nice to enjoy and soak in the beauty that’s all around us. How many of us drive the exact same way to work, church, and the store and we don’t take time to really soak in the beautiful changing colors of Autumn. The colors are almost breathtaking when the sun hits the vibrant shades of yellow, oranges, and my favorite-red!
The other day I was picking up some Fall Décor for our upcoming Friendsgiving and literally I was almost tripping over boxes of Christmas decorations that the store had laid out all over to get ready to stock. Although I absolutely love Christmas, the colors, and the entire vibe of this wonderful time of the year I was a little saddened that the marketing world is almost pushing the next season on us. Let’s be intentional in slowing down and appreciating this season that only comes once a year.
Autumn brings so many Joyous opportunities, but just like in any personal season there are also setbacks, losses, and disappointments. If you are experiencing these during this season of your life I want to encourage you to hold on, and keep your faith in God. When we are in the midst of a heavy season it can be difficult to see anything positive in your life but be intentional in recognizing that God is still moving on your behalf even during challenging seasons. Keep clinging to him like a young child clings to their parent. He is a good-good Father and he cares about his children.
There are so many things that can bring you Autumn JOY during this season:
1) Nature Walk-especially near a lake or river-Google walk places in your area, and you may be surprised by some hidden nature gems that are near you
2) Going to the beach- it’s not as crowded since it’s not summertime (Lol) There’s nothing like reading, resting, walking, and praying on the beach. (So refreshing)
3) Drinking hot tea or coffee (I heard pumpkin spice latte is the best, I’m a white mocha girl so I haven’t tried it yet-lol) on your porch or deck and watch the sunrise or sunset
4) Take a mini-road trip with a friend or two and watch the Fall foliage
5) Get creative! Switch up your meals with some new Fall recipes
6) Attend a local Fall Festival, Apple Orchard, etc.
7) Declutter at least one area in your house (decluttering has been linked to producing JOY and reducing stress in your life)
8) Take some chili or soup to an elderly person, a mother with small children, a family who is grieving, or a person who is disabled.
9) Send a card to someone who tends to get depressed during this time of the year, or who has just reached a milestone in their life or career.
10) Stay in constant communication with God: prayer, fasting, devotionals, and attending a Bible-Based church regularly.
Don’t allow the change of the season to get you down, be intentional in choosing JOY daily, the best remedy for keeping JOY is to take a daily dose of Gratitude. 😊
