It’s during the fall months that nature puts on a dazzling display of colorful foliage. It’s as if we are being prepared for the muted palate of winter–nature’s Mardi Gras before the austerity of the winter months.
Nature’s preparation for the lean times is a good reminder to us that we also go through winter seasons of life–times when life loses its color, when we’re not feeling well, when we’re looking for something to lift our spirits, when we experience some sort of loss.
St. Ignatius tells us that we should use our memories of the times of consolation to help us get through the desolate times; likewise when we are experiencing consolation to remind ourselves that this will not last forever, that winter does come, but it too will pass.
In the fall I find that it is enough simply to enjoy the scenes that nature provides. There will be time to reflect on its implications during the coming months of winter. For now it is sufficient to revel in the present moment of glory.
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