Autumn is a time when the days and nights are of equal length. It is a time of harvest, where all the best fruits of summer are picked and put away for the winter to come. Life can slow down a bit as the weather gets chilly. The leaves falling from the trees will decompose into the earth and create rich soil for the next cycle of growth.

In the cycle of life, Autumn is middle age and its focus on maturation, conservation, and harvest are readily apparent. This is a time when we can reap all that we have worked hard for over the year. We have learned so much during that time and we need to use that wisdom to ensure that we put all that we have created to their best uses. We may feel the need to control our environment to some extent, not wanting to see our efforts squandered. But we also have a strong desire to share what we have learned, accomplished, and harvested with others.

This is exactly like the autumn’s balance between night and day. We too are in a balance between introversion and extroversion. The autumn naturally makes us feel that we need to begin holding up for the winter and hoarding what we need to survive, but the slow winding down of the year also urges us to reconnect with those we care about in real, authentic ways. These deep connections and celebrations of life are deeply rewarding to the spirit and important for our personal development. It is only in others that we can see reflections of ourselves and use what we find there to grow.

Use this season to take stock of all that you have worked hard for over the year. Assess what you have and see if it is being used in the best way. Find family and friends that remind you of what is important and share in their harvests as they share in yours. As the winter approaches, store all these good things in your heart to feed you during the cold and nourish you in the dark.