Release

There are things going on in the world. There are things going on in our personal lives. There are things that are heavy and bulky, that often feel way too large for our overextended arms to carry. We may have learned to manage and maneuver the sharp edges of life because, isn’t that what we are supposed to do? I remember years ago a popular commercial’s marketing slogan was “Never let them see you sweat”. But we are sweating and tired and stressed. Reprieve, relief, and restoration sometimes allude us, yet they remain our heart’s cry. Remain. Even in the midst of it all, this indicates that there is hope.

The holidays are upon us. I am not sure where the time has gone. Gratitude and merriment are arriving shortly. Isn’t that what we are supposed to feel during the joyous season of all? I am first to admit that not all of us do. The last few months of the year may be a challenging time for many. I learned this firsthand, and I just want to acknowledge this fact. For me, the supposed to, expectations, and predictability took a back seat over the last few years when I began a grief journey that still leaves me reeling and catching my breath at times. Over the next several weeks I will share some of my personal hills and valleys with you. When I started my blog, I never imagined writing posts like this. But here we are together.

I took a walk today and felt simply overtaken by the way the shadows and shade cut through the light. And yet, the light remained. Scattered leaves of varying color strewn across the grass reminded me of the word release. We often associate that word with letting go of something unwanted, but that is not always the case. We can surrender to the blessings during heartache. We can unleash our joy amid sorrow. We can express our vulnerability even through the pain. I have a thing for falling leaves. They symbolize so many things. On one hand the autumn foliage is letting go and on the other, they are making room.

I look forward to sharing more my heart with you. Stay tuned.

May your Thanksgiving be what your soul needs.