Excited for Autumn!

By Carole Brown

Autumn began yesterday, September 22nd–October is right around the corner, so to speak–and that excites me! It always stirs the blood in me, I suppose because of a variety of reasons. Here’s a few thoughts of why (The scripture references are words taken from the verses to help apply my thoughts):

1. Rejoice . . . I say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)  It’s a time to remember the good times this year we’ve enjoyed. The family times, the fun times, the vacations, outings, pleasant evenings, special events, words of praise and words of encouragement. Put the bad things behind you (again!) and focus on what good has happened in your life this year. 
2. Look right on! (Proverbs 4:25):  Focus on what’s ahead of you. Don’t look back on your failures, on the disappointments, on the discouragements, on the let-downs. Make plans on what you want to accomplish for the rest of the months of 2016. If the task seems daunting, then break it down into accomplish-able portions. Make a list. (I LOVE lists!) But most of all, keep your eyes on your goal. You can do it!
3. Be Happy! (I Peter 4:4): Take time out to enjoy this season of coolness, the smells. Try a new Autumn dish, buy something new in one of the fall colors (discount store, yard sale, wherever!), plan a bonfire, dance through the falling leaves or stroll under the canopy of colorful trees. Wherever you decide to go, whatever you decide to do, do it with all your heart. Enjoy. Be happy.

 And finally, I want to leave you with one of my favorite Autumn poems that I’ve always loved. 

A Vagabond Song

There is something in the Autumn that is native to my blood,                                                          Touch of manner, hint of mood;                                                                                                                And my heart is like a rhyme,                                                                                                                    With the yellow and the purple and the crimson keeping time.

The scarlet of the maples can shake me like a cry                                                                                Of bugles going by                                                                                                                                        And my lonely spirit thrills                                                                                                                      To see the frosty asters like a smoke upon the hills.

There is something in October sets the gypsy blood astir                                                                  We must rise and follow her                                                                                                                      When from every hill of flame                                                                                                                  She calls and calls each vagabond by name.