Tip of My Iceberg

We have two seasons in Florida, as opposed to the more common four: green and less green. We’re approaching the less green time now, though it hasn’t really hit yet because we keep getting these hurricanes that insist on delivering more water than we really want. So green it still is.

At this time of year, however, i become nostalgic for the times we lived up north, when autumn hit with its glorious abundance of color, transforming the greens of summer into a riotous palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. I even miss the falling leaves and the need to rake. We would create huge piles of autumnal color for the kids to jump in, and the crisp air would color their cheeks a rosy pink as they cavorted through the piles, falling into them, kicking them, throwing them.

I envy my daughter’s family in Colorado. They recently visited the aspens as they changed color from summer green to the brilliant yellow of fall. People come from all over to see the aspens because they’re truly spectacular when seen as huge groves, their leaves waving joyfully in the wind.

Seasons are reminders that life can be measured by understood intervals, opportunities to experience change, even if it’s just a slight adjustment to what is expected. We may not have autumn, but we have hurricane season that goes from June 1 through November 30. Every year we’re reminded of what we need to be prepared for the possibility that the big one will hit us.

Seasons are also prompts that make us realize that we’re maturing and changing. Time moves on, and recognizing the seasons in our lives gives us perspective on how to appreciate how we’re growing as people, developing in our character.

Not every season is enjoyable, nor does every season offer visible signs of growth of character. Not all that long ago, I had an eleven month season of deep grief. Three people very special to me passed in that time, and I realized I didn’t grieve well. That season threw me for a loop.

There are work seasons where troubles seem to be more prevalent than hope. I have the privilege of coaching people, and as we’re all more or less a bit of a mess, there are times when situations seem heavier and more difficult. People hurt and need to talk to relieve some of the load. Sharing with someone safe can help. I’m a good listener, but that can also be challenging.

We move through seasons as part of life, growing up and entering new times of discovery and maturity.

God made us to grow and develop through these seasons. To recognize that there will be good and bad in life, and basing our hopes on being happy all the time isn’t sustainable.

“For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to grieve and a time to dance.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-4.

Life as we know it can’t be shaped into a perfect picture of happiness and joy. It’s embracing all of life with an attitude of determination, not quitting when it’s burdensome or despairing. God brings us through those times better able to deal with the ups and downs of life.

If we never had the bad and hurtful, we could never fully appreciate the peace and beauty.

I may not have an autumn like I’d choose, but I’m learning to embrace my reality with God’s help, finding His joy in the moment.

What season are you being challenged with?