We’re past the middle of October and fall is in full swing; the wait is over.   Pumpkins on the porch, football teams are winning and loosing, and we’ve had that first “cool” front that brings a deep blue sky and cooler days. I always enjoy watching the seasons change and find myself anticipating each one.

I’ve always thought the seasons are much like life in that the seasons of nature and the seasons of inner or spiritual growth that we experience are very similar. Let’s take a look:

When our spirits are in the season of winter there is a quietness much like the stillness of a cold winter day. Or, perhaps the spirit has been laid bare much like the trees that are leafless. This is when we find ourselves drawing within and contemplating our true self, the inner self.

The season of spring begins slowly in our hearts as we emerge from the cold of winter. Our hearts quickly open and fill rapidly with new understanding and maybe a sense of a new direction to follow.  Remember that first is the bud, then the bloom and then the full, open flower in this season.

The long days of summer filled with activities that stretch late into lingering sunsets are much like the pleasant days when your spirit is content and moving from one day to the next with a sense of direction.  The growth of spring has given a sense of purpose to life that has blossomed.

The colors of fall come as the summer foliage begins to look a little tired. Fall is associated with the harvest season and so it is with the spirit.  The long shadows in the afternoon offer an invitation to reflect on the season of growth and where our spirit will move next on the journey.