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R.E.flections by a chaliceD.R.E.amer
     Wed 21 Oct 2009 3:48pm
It’s that time of year again.  Autumn.  The leaves are changing and falling.  The weather is getting colder and the days are growing shorter and darker.  With the seasonal change come changes in mindset and attitude for many of us.  Gone are the carefree days of summer and here are too many things to get done in one day.  It’s easy to get lost in the intense busyness of life this time of year.  It’s also too easy to get sad or depressed that life has become so much work and stress.   
 
A few moments have helped me minimize the negative feelings that can come with the seasonal changes and seeing the light. One is recognizing that there is value to each season.  Enjoying a simple Autumn comfort rituals (eating delicious homemade apple pie and getting my flannel sheets out) helped me realize that this is a season for gathering inward and preparation.  Winter is coming and even more time to be inside enjoying a different type of lifestyle, being closer and more intimate with friends and loved ones.  Not better or worse than summer, just different.
 
Another moment that helped me see the positive light was when Katie Lee and I met to plan the intergenerational service we have coming up on November 1st.  We were talking about giving thanks and honoring the sunshine of life.  It secretly felt counterintuitive to how low I’ve been feeling to be considering what I’m grateful for and what are the joys in my life.  And yet, engaging in these spiritual practices made me feel so much better and happier.   
 
Another counterintuitive action that helped me feel good was taking a moment to help someone else.  Sure, I’m tired and stressed and the last thing I’m thinking about is adding anything to my workload.  But when I helped a friend who is divorcing move last weekend, it helped me get out of my funk.  Knowing that I’m not alone in my life struggles and helping someone else who is going through a harder stage than I’m in let me see the light that my life is moving toward a good place.  That I’m lucky in many ways I’m not realizing.
 
And the best moments that have helped me feel good energy again on these cold and dark days is simply coming to First Parish.  How can you not feel good seeing people who are happy to spend time with you?  People you share important values and goals with.  People who are ready to share a laugh or a cry with you – whatever you need at that time.  People who will help you see life from a different perspective and challenge you to appreciate the good in your life and enjoy it fully!  
 
Loving blessings, Roberta 

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