Beginnings of the Seasonal Transition

tran-si-tion

1. a: passage from one state, stage, subject, or place to another: CHANGE

b: a movement, development, or evolution from one form, stage, or style to another

When I went running this morning I couldn't help but notice the seasonal changes that are occurring. Hard as it is for me to accept there is evidence all around saying, "Fall is coming..." The evidence is the rain that greeted me as I woke this morning, the coolness in the air (almost chilly), the orange-y glow of the sunshine in the beginning and ending of the day, the slight tinge of reds/oranges/yellows on tips of the trees, the sounds of the high school sports teams and marching band practicing... Yes, Autumn is coming. A transition is starting.

For me, the transition from Summer to Fall is always very challenging. Though I thoroughly enjoy Fall, I have a hard time letting Summer go. I love the hot uncomfortable days, the warm summer sun beating on my skin, the refreshing feel of pool water, being able to wear minimal clothing (not sweatshirts, coats etc...), the warm breeze tickling my face, taste of fresh local produce, having the windows open all of the time... Oh, I just love it all. I'm sad that we didn't get many days like this, but I am thankful for what we did receive. Perhaps it's not all over yet, as we do have until September 22nd.

Transitions are just not easy sometimes. When this time of year rolls around, I always feel a little bittersweet (except for the Summer of '08 but that's a story for another time). I think the hardest part of this year's transition is knowing how busy the next few months are going to be. I also dread the dark and dreary days-- those can be very challenging to live through. I don't think I qualify as a S.A.D. candidate but I might be close. ;-)

I hope I'm not sounding like I'm complaining as my purpose is to just process this coming change. I think it's important as an individual to process transitions and express the challenges that come with it all. Everyone is affected by transitions one way or another. The only difference is how we deal with it. While we might want to kick and scream at first; we can't continue that behavior all the way through the change. At some point, we have to do that scary thing called acceptance. I am no role model of that but I know that's what is needed in order to move on.

So, for now in this beginning phase... this beginning to a new season... I know that I need to talk about it, write about it, and pray about it. And praying will be key of course. I know for sure that one of my prayers will be that I enjoy the last moments of Summer and look forward to the joys of Fall.

*Do you struggle with this particular transition like I do?

*What are you looking forward to in the Fall?

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Definition from Merriam-Webster's Dictionary Online.