This morning, there was frost on the ground, sweetening the brussel sprouts and encouraging the flowers to go to sleep until spring. This is a spiritually contemplative season in which we remember our sadness as well as our joy at the connections we have made. It is also the time for storing and planning for the long pause of winter. For most of us, we are quite busy with one kind of preparation or another. It is, perhaps, a good idea to take time each day to get in tune with what God is telling us through the earth.
The earth appears to be dormant but beneath the ground creatures are still living, roots are still thriving. Even under the ice on the bays and inlets, life is busy and mobile. For humans, this is our time to reflect on our spiritual journeys, to go deeply into our hearts and souls.
In one week, we will remember those who have gone before us, filling in the tapestry of human history with their colour and particular fibre. We can imagine our lives as connecting threads that will add new patterns to what has been, honouring the past by anticipating the new patterns of the future.
As the leaves let go of their branches, their summer beauty only a memory, so may we let go of what has been. The leaves let go, but new buds will form in the spring on what appears to be branches initially, but in fact, have the life of the past to remind them of who they have been and who they will be
“Anyone who thinks fallen leaves are dead
has never watched them dancing on a windy day.”
― Shira Tamir —
“There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden,
but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it.”
― Minnie Aumonier —