Facing the Darkness

Before pumpkin spice lattes were even a thing, one of the sure tell signs of autumn’s arrival were the turning of the leaves. They usually appear as only a few golden or orange ones, hidden among the green foliage of the trees.

With the arrival of the first of the fall colors, we in the northern hemisphere know that the autumn equinox is but a few days away. There are two days each year when the sun is directly over the equator, giving us equal lengths of day and night -- the spring equinox and the autumnal equinox. The Holy invites us to pause on this day as we make our way toward the Winter Solstice, when the longest night of the year arrives. In a few short months, darkness will come. Those who are in tune with the earth’s life cycle understands its power to shift us into different realms of awareness, insight and growth.

The autumnal equinox is an opportunity to reflect on the past year. There is still time, but the days grow shorter.

What projects did we hope to accomplish?

Where did we see ourselves on our journey of life?

Who did we see being on this journey with us? And if they aren’t here, why?

How can we make changes with the time that is left?

It is another day for quiet reflection and deep introspection -- if you are willing to pump the brakes on your schedule and feel the energetic shift. It is there, and it is a gift for all of us. In the abundance of green and the explosion of herbs and florals in the garden, subtle changes signalling the growing season is coming to an end.

The mornings are darker, and the withering of plants that gave us the bountiful harvest begins as we turn away from the sun. Not everyone will notice. But the empaths do.The healers do. Those attuned to nature do. Soon, we’ll be forced inside by the cold air that is sure to come. Yes, the seasons change. Earth will sleep. Nothing ever stays the same.

So, on this day, when too many tasks await your hands, and too many people need your heart, remember that this season of your life too shall pass.

Come. Let us express gratitude together for witnessing another season of growth, and for those on our journey with us whose life force impacts us in so many ways. For soon this season will change, and what is now, will be no more.

Blessed be.