FALL ReFlections

Personally, I do more life reflection when hiking in the fall than hiking at any other time of the year. The obviously related references to change, end of the year, reaping what has been sown, and dying to start anew all co-mingle in my mind as I surround myself with God’s autumn beauty.

The name, FALL is thought to originate in the phrase the fall of the leaf or to fall from a height.

In the season leaves should love,
since it gives them leave to move
through the wind, towards the ground
they were watching while they hung,

Excerpt from Song for Autumn by Mary Oliver

This brings to mind the concept of “letting go”. What have I held on to this past year that no longer serves me? If I let go of that long-held belief, will new and amazing opportunities present themselves? Will God set me on a new path?

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts”

Rachel Carson

Early morning hikes, alone and along the spring shoreline this is where I listen to God. I pray to embrace love over fear, openness over judgment, and connection over division.

“Be still and know that I am God”

Psalm 46:10

Building on that, as it of course all relates, Autumn, from the ancient Etruscan root autu- refers to the passing of the year. These past 2 years have been for some, difficult at best and completely destructive of family, work, and life for others. I have been fortunate to live in an area that affords me not only refuge in the forests but also opportunity that only an open conservative county can provide. This refuge has put me in front of many hikers from around our country who seek peace and community. Through this shared passion for hiking and nature, fellow hikers have blessed me with prayers, donations to our food pantry, and most of all a connectedness that so many have lost recently.

“I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order”

John Burrough

Last but certainly not least, it is the season of HARVEST. In keeping with the mood of this post, I would like to reflect on the “reaping” side of the sown harvest. As I’ve mentioned, I have had the opportunity to meet MANY hikers from around our country. I offer myself as a guide and most accept the help. My intention is always to help others see the beauty I get to experience daily. I do not fret or fear “strangers” but let God put in my path those with whom I am meant to share my hike.

Their gratitude and joy are only exceeded by the JOY I experience having been allowed to hike with each of them and many times their families. I have made great connections and felt true gratitude and affection. I am beyond grateful to each and every one of these hikers who shared their precious time with me. I could not ask God for a better harvest of joy and gratitude.

My dear friends, I pray our Lord fills you with a spirit of adventure and strength so that you may throw off old habits of fear and embark on a journey of renewal. I pray God puts in your path moments of peace and joy so that you may stay the course and move in His will. I pray that during this season of reflection that you allow the death of the old self that no longer serves you and in doing so bring forth that which God meant you to be. “To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven”