For those of us who grew up in the tropics, such as Ghana, the idea of four seasons is foreign. We have two or three main seasons in Ghana: a rainy season and a dry season, with the latter being mainly dominated by harmattan winds. This latter one can be a little cooler, with some plants taking on a different hue by losing some of their leaves, but quite unlike the massive hues of color we see during Autumn which is experienced in places such as Europe or North America.
It feels very different in the UK during autumn. The season brings sudden changes with leaves changing color from green to striking displays of red, orange, and gold colors; they eventually dry out and fall, and then the trees become bare, the context of an atmosphere no less bleak yet lovely. Indeed, it is a time of winding up - a season when nature itself literally stops and awaits the cold coming.
But can this "fall" be more? As autumn unfolds here, I can’t help but feel that it is symbolic of a season in which we let go of things that no longer serve us, like leaves off a tree to conserve energy during winter. Perhaps it is reminding us, too, this is a time for us to look back, to let go, and make room for renewal.
I feel so drawn to the lessons this season gives us. Autumn does teach us that there is beauty in release; life comes in cycles, each bringing along its wisdom. When leaves fall and enrich the soil, they nourish the earth for new growth to take place in the spring. It's such a powerful message, to let go isn't to lose; it's to make room for a new beginning.
So anytime you are out there and experience a season of change or notice the changes in the world, think about what you would you like to release to the season? What kind of stuff or a burden you would like to let go in all aspects of your life? physically, mentally, and emotionally, there are things that could be cleared out to make room for new ones.
And what seeds of intention will you plant for the next phase of your life? I'm always inpsired by different seasons as help me find beauty in change, embrace life's cycles, and get myself ready for the next phase in my life. What about you? what does Autumn means to you?