🍂 Embracing the Seasons of Life: A Special Reflection from the Sanctuary 🌿

Hi there, I wanted to take a moment to connect with you from a special place—my sanctuary. This morning, I decided to step outside, find my swing, and simply be in nature. From where I sit, I can see my chickens roaming freely, a flock of quail darting through the brush, and the vast expanse of the pasture stretching out before me. It's one of those peaceful fall mornings where the gentle breeze and fresh air feel like a gift.

As the seasons shift from summer to fall, I’ve noticed a bit of a transition within myself. I’ve always loved the warmth and energy of summer, and there’s a part of me that wasn’t quite ready to let it go. Have you ever felt that way? Those moments when something in your life is so lovely, so full of light, that you wish it could last just a little longer? But, as we all know, change is inevitable. It’s woven into the fabric of life, constantly guiding us from one season to the next.

Lately, I’ve been growing my capacity to embrace this change, to open my heart and mind to the possibilities that come with it. Just yesterday, I found myself resisting the shift, feeling like I wasn’t ready for someone or something to be over. But then I remembered the wisdom in staying open, in welcoming what’s new, even when it means saying goodbye to what’s familiar.

Here at the sanctuary, surrounded by my three curious kitties who seem to be enjoying this fall weather as much as I am, I’m reminded of the importance of flexibility and adaptability. I often reflect on the FACES acronym coined by Dan Siegel—Flexible, Adaptable, Coherent, Energized, Stable. It’s a simple yet profound reminder of what’s possible within ourselves when we embrace the transitions life offers us.

As I settle into this new season, I find myself wondering about the impact I can make today. Who can I connect with? Who can I listen to with deep presence? Who might need a moment of shared silence, or a bit of playful joy? There’s so much richness in these simple connections, in being fully present with the people and creatures around us.

So, wherever you find yourself planted today, I encourage you to open up to the possibilities that surround you. Whether it’s a time for play, for deep conversation, or simply for being still, let’s embrace the season we’re in with open hearts and minds. After all, each season brings its own unique gifts—gifts that we can discover if we take the time to look, to listen, and to simply be.

Wishing you a beautiful fall day, filled with grace and new beginnings.