Here we are, entering a new season. The comments that start every conversation this time of year are familiar ones: “What? It’s fall already?” “Where did the summer go?” And then there are those of us who say, “It’s my favorite time of the year!”
Here in New England, fall is almost synonymous with foliage. Whether we’re driving along a country road, on the highway, or just taking a walk down a quiet side street, the abundance of color is amazing. Hues of red, yellow, orange, and even purple beckon to be photographed. But as we approach the end of October, the colorful tapestry begins to thin. The leaves have served their purpose, and the trees begin to shed them.
This natural process reminds me that fall is also a suitable time for us to reflect on what we might need to shed in our own lives. There are so many places to begin.
We can start with our closets. Is there a garment or two we no longer wear? That’s where I began my shedding. I chose sweaters, blouses, pants, and dresses I did not wear last year. Actually, some of them I haven’t worn for much longer than a year. Just as those colorful leaves have had their time, the items I chose served their purpose, too. I know someone else will have a turn at loving them.
Is there something we carry inside ourselves we can shed?
Perhaps a habit we would like to change? A way we respond to others. Something we hold on to that creates unnecessary stress or keeps us from moving forward. Looking inside oneself is not always easy, but it can be done. Taking an honest look and identifying where we can make a change is huge and making that change can be an enormous relief. Just as the trees let go of their leaves in what appears to be so willing, we can release behaviors that no longer serve us.
I know I do a pretty good job of shedding things throughout the year, but I still use this seasonal reminder. Besides shedding from my closet, I’ve decided to also let go of Christmas decorations. Before long, I will take everything out and will be deciding what to keep and what to share with others.
As I look st the leaves out on the lawn, I remind myself that letting go isn’t necessarily about losing something. I want to believe it’s making room for what comes next.
So as we enjoy all the beauty that fall offers, I invite you to take a moment to reflect. Is there something in your closet, your cabinets, your basement, your habits, your heart that you’re ready to shed this season?
I’d love to hear from you. What does fall inspire you to let go? click Here