Subtle

Oh, the shifting of seasons is just beginning, things are just starting to change. The days are noticeably shorter and the temperature gently drops to long-sleeve weather. I notice it as I walk around Peters Hill. Yes, a bit of a chill, a bit of maybe I should have worn the hoodie. After how many trips around the sun, you’d think I’d be used to it.

Yet, it always seems to catch me unaware. Even though I can feel it in my body and see it in the landscape, still often it’s a surprise. And maybe that’s just fine and not the problem that I sometimes feel it is. After all, the contrast between late summer and early autumn can be subtle – more trees and shrubs setting fruit than leaves turning dramatic colors. The beginning of change.

Perhaps we can become more skilled at noticing this nuance as one thing ends and another begins. There’s some benefit at putting our attention on the subtleties that surround us, at becoming more astute observers of our everyday reality. Noticing the contrast, that’s a good spot for you to pay attention.