Autumn

My nose was awakened by the paw of Goldyn.  Mmm. . . it's still pitch black and the morning air is brisk even inside our home.  I buried myself a bit deeper in the covers and flannel sheets, but Goldy wouldn't give up as he kept nagging me with his paw to wake up.  Once up, I recognized that autumn days have arrived. It's a short season, but one which grabs your attention with its cold wind, bright colors, and dark days.

As I started on my bike ride, my eyes caught all the changing trees.  Leaves were scattered on the lawns and on the streets.  I like the amber, crimson trees the best, although the neighborhood is full of golden ones as well.  It's interesting to me that the colors seem more glorious when they are given a darkened background.  They seem to shine more brightly when black clouds build behind them.  Even other plants seem more brilliant, as I love the bougainvillea that cover many fences with it's lavender, orange, and deep red purple foliage. I find it interesting that "all at once" the trees have changed.  Just one day, you wake up to this hidden beauty that must have been there even when the trees were green in all those hot summer days.  Yet, right now, the trees have turned on their true colors and for a season I am blessed to view them.

I have a faithful Mum, much like the trees that knows when to show its color.  It bursts forth into a mound of the brightest yellow.  Bees love to come and bask in it's blossoms.  When I see it bloom, I know that autumn has arrived.

I have to realize, I'm seeing similar signage in my life.  Autumn has arrived for me.  I haven't wanted to let go of summer in my life, but finite time does not permit those endless days.  Autumn isn't the first season of the year, it comes into one's life after much endurance, even storms and trials. In fact, it seems the colder the winds, the heavier the rain, the more beautiful nature becomes before us.  As I pondered that thought, pedaling down hill, with the fresh air chilling my face, I understood that autumn may be my best days yet. Perhaps, it's that hidden beauty that now will be evident for others to finally see.  I have a chance to burst with color because of what I've learned of life.  I have an autumn opportunity to show God's grace and love displayed in me.