Here in the Northeast of the United States, this is my favorite time of year. The leaves display a multi-colored paradise, and we start to hunker down for Winter. Neighbors begin to look at each other differently. The weather has a strange way of reminding us we all need each other to get through the cold and darkness until Spring. Even my little dogs have started the process of hibernation. One thing’s for sure, my doggies always tell me that Winter is coming.

Summer has its own charm and beauty, yet Fall brings mystery, and sparks the imagination. I’m not quite sure if its the looking forward to Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years…but one thing’s for certain, the spirituality of Autumn breezes through the air. This time of year gives me a chance to look back and see how far I’ve come, what I’ve lost, what I’ve gained. Nature has its own way of helping us come to grips with our mortality and our blessings. It’s so easy to forget, but its the little things that mean the most. Love is all around us, and the stronger, the better, for it is when it is weak we decay. I’m sure if you live in a part of the world that has a harsh Winter, you understand how important community and love is needed to get through.

The economy, quality of life, loss and grief…whatever we may be going through, one day it does dawn on us what truly matters. Although Autumn and Winter may blow cold winds, they also can warm the heart. As the cycle of the year goes by, we always remember what was, and what will be. Our dreams live on, like a blank empty page that stares back at us, waiting for us to imprint upon.

As Fall comes, we do indeed move forward, learning as we go along, hopefully becoming a better person, embracing what we have, and discovering what we need. No matter how many times we circle the year, there is always something new to learn. As nature falls asleep for Winter, many will enfold the charm and the magic of the season.

Stop, Look, and Listen,

Jennifer Avalon

© 2009 Jennifer Avalon