Leaves

If you are from the Midwest or visit this region throughout the year, you know we are part of the United States with four true seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall.  Most people around here love the spring and fall seasons best as these months don’t present the extreme weather like our winter and summer.  And the beauty of the spring and fall landscapes are unparalleled, along with revered the traditions of tulip festivals in May and bonfires in October.  Even the air is amazing during these sacred months.

Yet, this very air is what causes allergies for many who live here.  Microscopic pollen creates wars with people’s sinuses during both seasons.  Various trees wreak havoc starting in March, where ragweed sends its power blows in September.  These very particles, however, are the necessary backbone to creating the transitions between seasons.  Eventually this leads to the magnificent plant-life demonstrated in the spring and fall.  The buds of newly sprouting leaves and the autumn colors of changing leaves remind us that nothing lasts forever.  Even the high heat of summer and the frigid temperatures of winter won’t keep their mark indefinitely.  Spring and fall eventually greet us with their joyfully opened arms.

Such is life.  If the temperatures in your life seem uncomfortably high or woefully low, remember that a season of transition, regrowth, and change could be right in the horizon.  Conversely, if you are experiencing the bliss of wonderful surroundings, it is also helpful to remember that the tiny particles of pollen-like transformation could be entering the gates.  The next time you have seasonal spring allergies or rake the fallen leaves of autumn, mindfully tell yourself that you are undergoing these because of the splendor that came first.  The next time you dread shoveling the snow or paying the utility bill from withering heat, peacefully tell your soul that this weather is preparing the world for great things to follow.  

Jump in the pile of Fall’s raked leaves.  Run through the sprinklers belonging to Summer.  Make snow-angels in Winter’s solid ground.  Pick the daisies given by the fields of Spring.  They all have something to offer.  Embrace the seasons.

Changepoints:

Determine the times in life you enjoy and those you prefer to avoid:

·        Remember a situation that was hard to endure that eventually led to growth opportunities.  What outcomes resulted that couldn’t have happened if you hadn’t experienced the tumultuous time beforehand?

·        Think of ways you can welcome the highs and lows you might face.  What serves as your gentle reminder that nothing is forever, the good or the bad?

·        How can you personalize your story to include all seasons?

o   How will this change your relationship with the various extremes in life?

o   What can you do to remain authentic to yourself during transitions?

There is a gift to be given and received during all periods of change. 

outSIGHTin, LLC: Creating awareness as a changepoint for improved organizational results.