Summer leaves

Sharing this short reflection as summer winds down in our part of the world.

I look forward to the change of foliage in the fall. That’s when many of us take a walk in the mix of red, yellow, and orange. In summer, we see flowering bushes, annuals, and perennials, anything that unleashes true beauty.

So I found it refreshing that a bunch of dancing leaves on a young maple would offer a new perspective.

Who doesn’t welcome a warm breeze during these days?  Unlike the winter, there is no biting gust of wind. Instead, that soft gust is soothing, taking the edge off the humid air and leaving behind a feeling of relief.  

Each leaf on that tree joined the current like a bunch of tiny boomerangs, springing back as the wind rested and resuming the cycle when the wind picked up.

The leaves left an impression of their own. They seemed to struggle to break free, but their DNA mapped out a different plan. The stalks refused to release their charges as if it were messaging them, saying, “it’s too soon.”

It’s too soon for a lot of things.

We savour a fine meal, treasure a special visit, cherish time with our children, and hold the dying close. And for most of these things, the end comes too soon.

We want one more day, one more hour, anything to ride out that sense of finality.

I’m reminded of that as the leaves continue their dance. I’m reminded of those feelings that stirred up each of those times. But I soon forget about most things as the wind sweeps up around me.

Sometimes, surrendering isn’t so bad when it brings peace.

“Let it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:28-38.

Pictured: Ottawa River, July 2021.

Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved, Jackie Kierulf, writer.

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