Embracing November

October is the month for painted leaves. Their rich glow now flashes round the world. As fruits and leaves and the day itself acquire a bright tint just before they fall, so the year near its setting. October is a sunset sky; November is the later twilight.
~Henry David Thoreau

This photo was taken at the end of October when the trees were still in their full Autumn regalia. I think I might take this shot in every season.

October is now gone. November’s here and, in the northern hemisphere, the season seems to be folding in on itself in preparation for winter. It’s the time when nature pauses, takes a deep breath and exhales in a deep sigh. The twilight of Autumn is like a receding presence where nature releases the previous 11 months from all expectations. November lets go with no regrets. And so should we.

Let it go, Elsa.

And we’ve let go of a lot this year, haven’t we? We’re filled with regrets and disappointments this year. It’s hard to just let go of the things that could have been.

But we need to. It’s time once again to re-focus, re-evaluate and re-examine our lives. And this begins with acknowledging what we’re grateful for in life. In doing this, we, too, can fold in on ourselves, pause and exhale a deep sigh. Especially this year. When we find things in which to be grateful, we are free to reflect on all of life’s experiences, good and bad, with a different perspective.

The twilight of Autumn can be a much-needed rest for the soul. Let it go. Release the things that burden. Acknowledge the impermanence of life. Appreciate the beauty that surrounds November. Let’s get out of our own way and allow time for our spirits to change and refresh.

Pause. Deep breath. Exhale.