By: Jackie Warner
There is something special about the fall season. Even for those of us who are not particularly fond of winter and the cold that follows, autumn arrives with a beauty that seems to touch the soul. The changing leaves paint the landscape with brilliant shades of orange, gold, brown, crimson, and deep purple. The air becomes crisp, the chili pot comes out, and families begin making plans for holiday gatherings and treasured traditions. As the years pass, however, the season begins to feel different.
When I was younger, Thanksgiving was the holiday in our home. Family would gather around the table, laughter would fill every room, and I would pull out all the stops in the kitchen. Cooking became my love language, a way to express gratitude, joy, and affection for the people God had blessed me with. The aroma of favorite dishes, the conversations around the table, and the presence of those I loved made the season complete.
But time has a way of changing the landscape of our hearts. We lost one loved one. Then another. And then another.
Now, when the leaves begin to change and the holidays draw near, memories sit differently in my spirit. What once brought only excitement now carries a sacred mixture of gratitude and grief. The empty chairs are noticed. The familiar voices are missed. The traditions remain, but they have been reshaped by loss.
Lighting a candle for a loved one has become a meaningful act of remembrance. Yet even in those moments, there is an ache that words cannot fully explain. It is then that I find myself remembering the wisdom of my grandmother and those elders who came before us. As a child, I would hear them say:
“Enjoy life.” “If it’s the Lord’s will.” “If I am here next year.”
At the time, those words seemed distant and unnecessary. Now I understand them differently. They were not speaking from fear. They were speaking from experience. They understood the fragility of life and the gift of each day God gives us.
Scripture reminds us:
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV).
“Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12, KJV).
So this autumn, embrace the season. Celebrate the memories. Honor those who have gone before us. Treasure those who are still here. And above all, trust the One who remains faithful through every season of life.
For if it is the Lord’s will, we will see another fall. Until then, let us live fully, love deeply, and walk closely with Him.
Reflection Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the beauty of every season and for Your presence through both joy and sorrow. Comfort those who are grieving and strengthen those carrying heavy hearts. Help us to appreciate the gift of today, cherish our loved ones, and walk faithfully with You. May this season bring healing, gratitude, reflection, and renewed hope in Christ.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
By: Jackie Warner
Career Development Facilitator
“Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters
