I seem to be more cognizant of the seasonal changes when I am in Vermont. Well, it is a four-season state. There is a clear definition to Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring, although some of you from the North may have also heard of the fifth season – Mud. We stay in Florida for that one.

Here on the lake, I get daily hints from the wildlife that stops by to rest and feed. The Canadian Geese, very noisy neighbors, are beginning to arrive. Wait a minute! The calendar only says August 31! Say it ain’t so that Fall is on its way with winter close behind. Lots of ducks, bobbing and diving for the small fish and lake weeds that make up their diet. Small birds wading at the fringe of the water.

The beautiful sunsets across the lake have moved from the north to the south, setting now in a different mountain location. They also come earlier each day. Sometimes, I identify with early settlers who used these indicators to prepare for the coming cold. I begin to organize my stuff for the return trip to Florida. (Not that my trip south can in any way be truly compared to people preparing to winter in a hut in Vermont- for which I am very grateful.)

My flowers appear to be putting on one last hurrah before the frost comes and they are no more. The colors are vivid and the blossoms plentiful. Even the basil has a blue-ribbon display, almost begging to be cut and made into pesto.

The light changes as well. Autumn has a distinct shade; sharper and clearer. I notice it in a flash while driving down the road. Wow! It is almost Fall.

Then, of course, there are the changing leaves and the cooling temperatures. Early man could not wait until the leaves began to change to prepare for winter. It would be too late by that time. Preparation for challenging times needs to begin when things are going well. When the temperature is warm, and food is plentiful.

Hmmmm. There is a correlation here for my spiritual life, isn’t there? There are spiritual seasons of plenty and drought. Practicing spiritual disciplines, like prayer and dependence on God’s grace during the times of plenty, put me on solid ground for the times of need. During those times, I can make a prayer request with confidence and know a reliable answer is waiting for me. I have practiced listening for the small still voice of the Holy Spirit, offering me guidance and love.

I have the assurance that God loves me unconditionally. He loves you unconditionally! Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 and practice preparation. And so, the days move on and time passes to wherever it goes.

Terri