Sr. Joan’s wisdom stirs me once again, as the darkness of November days seep into my mind and heart. Suddenly, it is dark at 5:00 pm and my energy is sapped. The first heavy frost has wiped out the last of my flowers; everything feels grey.
And yet Thanksgiving will soon fill our homes with love and gratitude. Christmas and holiday lights will soon brighten our evenings. The wood stove will warm our bones urging us to snuggle up at home. It is peaceful. And I can be quieter and restful. I can greet this time to reflect. The end of this year will usher in the beginning of a new one, full of potential and promise.
Sr. Joan’s words remind me that I cannot control the passage of the seasons, but I can be open to a rhythm that opens up growth opportunities in the simple passage of time. I have learned that railing against what is certain–aging, change, death, struggles–only leads to anger, resentment, fear, and depression, robbing me of peace and the ability to see beauty and feel joy. We are all challenged to choose peace, beauty and joy. Happy November!
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Photo credit: Neil Tackaberry on Flickr
