An Autumn Prayer

So often I feel myself fighting against the force of nature around me…relationally and physically.

I see the things I want to accomplish in life and I angst as the leaves change colors before my vision is realized. 

I see the rows of corn being taken down by farmers before I have seen the relational healing I had hoped to experience first.

Like wading into the ocean with arms spread wide, I try and hold back each steady wave that breaks on and past me.

I am present…but stumbling about.

I push against the force of existence in hopes of tilting the universe to my benefit.

But it too breaks past me.

At a dear one’s encouragement, I took opportunity to walk and listen to the earth and life around me.

Along a wooded trail, it occurred to me that the trees of the forest maintain open arms to the seasons. 

As the sun wains and the cold arrives they allow their colors to change.  And when the wind comes…even on a day when they are glowing with color…they will release their outer covering and still stand with arms open to the season ahead.

It’s not weakness on display.

More like resolve.

A reminder of the powerful roots that it stands in…strengthening itself even now as it splashes vibrantly in the cool breeze of fall.

A reminder for me to turn and move along with the heartbeat of the universe. 

To yield my demanding of the tide’s direction and pace.

To allow the harvest it’s seasons. 

To allow my soul it’s trepidation.

And to find peace in the unknowing.

To remember there is a gift in the cycle of life.

To breathe in the gentle beauty of the butterfly in it’s season.

And to appreciate the transformation of the shadowed cocoon still hanging below a single leaf.

To feel the pulse of the universe moving with the sparrow’s wings.

Standing with yielded arms we feel the surge of life pushing us forward…unexpectedly…but surely so.

Into each season…

Stronger…

More Peaceful…

Aware and Alive.

Amen.