There’s something special about autumn.
The crisp air. The vibrant purple, red, and gold leaves. A steaming cup of tea. A crackling fire. An artful display of pumpkins, cornstalks, and apples.
Autumn has been my favorite season since childhood. Now that the calendar has flipped to October, I’ve been thinking about why I enjoy this time of year so much.
There’s a preciousness to fall that heightens its delights. I know these magical days are fleeting. The long lazy days of summer are over and the cold dark winter lies ahead. It makes me want to savor this season.
Autumn is a time of reflection. Its transitional nature encourages me to ponder my life. What seasons have come and gone? Which has most recently waned and which one awaits? Where do I find myself now?
The last year an a half has been a time of intense change in my career, family, and way of living (I wrote about those changes here). The current season for my wife Lisa and me is dominated by adapting to our new nomadic lifestyle. Three months ago, we finished selling our condo, our rental houses, and almost all our possessions. We now live in hotels, AirBnbs, and with friends and family throughout the US, and we’ll soon be heading abroad.
At times I wonder if we’re crazy. This way of life is so different than anything we’ve done before, and the challenges are real. But overall, we’re loving the freedom, spontaneity, variety, and relational connections that nomadic life provides. In the frustrating times, I think of how proud I am of us for taking the leap into this dream we’ve had for so long, and remind myself we can always plant roots again if we choose.
What reflections is this autumn season stirring in you? Take time to ponder. Wander a wood, a park, a lane. Look back on the seasons of your life. Observe honestly where you are now. Gaze at what lies ahead. Practice gratitude for it all. Let the insights you gain guide your path. If you do, you’ll experience a deep joy this autumn, and you’ll take another step toward Becoming Yourself.
Hello Matt,
I recently started following your writing and appreciate your thoughts put to words. I’m sure Shelly and I won’t be following your nomadic lifestyle but I’m excited to see what lies ahead for you and Lisa.
One thing that struck me this morning was the name of your vlog: Becoming Yourself. As a Christian I’ve often heard we are to become more like Jesus Christ. That we are to die to self and find life in the ways and truth of Jesus.
But I also understand that I’m a unique child of God who has a set of gifts and talents intended to be used for an abundant life.
I will keep exploring and perhaps resolve any conflicts between those two somewhat different perspectives.
In the meantime I will also enjoy autumn and wish you two great times and opportunities to share your faith with the people you meet.
Hi Hugh! I’m so glad you discovered my writings and have found them worthwhile. I understand your question about the name of my blog. There are several reasons for it. One, I have readers from many different places on the spiritual spectrum, and I believe that many of the lessons I’m learning and sharing apply to people of different faiths or no faith at all. I want all to feel welcome here. Two, even for someone who desires to become like Jesus, part of that journey is self discovery, realizing who God created us to be and what is uniquely ours to do. Becoming the best version of ourselves spiritually, emotionally, and mentally is a part of that journey, at least in my opinion, hence the name. I hope that helps. All the best on your journey!