"F" words

I love the fall.  But it’s only early September, you’re probably thinking.  Yep, but here in Canada’s great North, the seasons are short – except for winter, which drags on interminably. Trees have already started changing color here and dogberries are in abundance.  Even the geese have begun their annual migration south of the border.  The days are noticeably shorter and soon the leaves will fall.  Frost warnings and snow flurries can’t be too far behind. I would like to live in an area where autumn is prolonged because I really enjoy brisk walks with the dog in the crisp, fresh air while the multi-colored leaves dance and swirl beneath our feet. 

When I was in my youth, spring was my favorite season.  The chirping of little birds and the bleating of new-born lambs in the meadow outside my bedroom window announced the resurgence of life after the slumber of winter.  Everything was new, pristine, and just waiting to be discovered. 

Before I knew it, the flowers and I were in full summer bloom and life was bright, beautiful, and very busy.  Babies became curious toddlers and, eventually, cheeky teenagers.  The freshness of the flowers gradually began to fade a little and the hectic pace of summer has now given way to a slower, yet surprisingly, richer season in the cycle of life.

I now look forward with great anticipation to this third quarter.  In just a couple of months, Son #1 will pledge his love to the woman of his dreams and I will be there to witness it, although I probably won’t see very well through the tears in my eyes. How blessed am I!  In no time at all, the circle of life will continue its natural order through the arrival of darling little grandchildren to love, nurture and guide.

Throughout my journey through the seasons, I have relied heavily on the solid foundations of faith, family and friends.  Now I can add the cornerstone of fall – with all its strength, vibrancy, and diversity - to stabilize the structure of my life.  See, not all “f” words are bad!