Falling back into Fall

Summer 2018 has come and gone within the blink of an eye. For some, it was filled with free time to read or catch up with friends, for a few more, it consisted of family trips and pictures at the park, and for others, it was a mere continuation of to-do lists and organization of schedules. Whichever summer best describes your own, it is now time to welcome the Fall. And the Fall season can look different for all of us as well. Whether it be the beginning of something new, or the return to a familiar routine, it is a transition. And what we can all recognize about transitions, is that they affect us in one way or another. Perhaps it is our sleep schedule that changes, our daytime schedule that shortens or lengthens, our responsibilities that evolve, or beyond. Undergoing any transition is meaningful in that we must recognize the change at hand, adapt to it, and continue moving forward. I don’t know about you, but “going with the flow” of change has never been my strong suit. In fact, I resist change pretty strongly. I remember my senior year of high school when I was accepted into Abilene Christian University, and for weeks during the summer I could do nothing but strut all of my ACU t-shirts and eagerly plan my next four years of independence and adventure. Then, the night before we were planned to make the road trip, I almost got sick in my suit case. When circumstances become unfamiliar, or simply transform, it is challenging for me. I appreciate consistency and knowing exactly what to expect of not only my day, but my future. And once I become comfortable with my circumstances, I desire to stay that way. Some individuals unlike myself, handle transitions miraculously. They are “go with the flow” kind of people, and at times will even seek out change in their lives. In any case, no matter what type of individual we are, change happens. The seasons transition and so must we. What I have learned is that the survival of change does not lie in controlling it, but accepting it. And if it is overwhelming, breathing through it. Much like a relentless migraine, the more tense you become resisting the pain, the more intensely you feel it. But if you relax into the pain, it does not overpower you. As you welcome the Fall season, do not let the transition overpower you. Rather, accept the new season with all it may possess, and take each step with an even deeper breath. There is no rush to any finish line, nor any judge to please. All there is, is the present you have to live in, and your duty to yourself to live in it happily. There is power in your outlook, so look forward with fresh eyes. Say goodbye to Summer, and hello to Fall! And remember all the while, some seasons bring the most beautiful change of all. ​

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