leaves.

It's official: the crispness of fall is in the air. As much as I love summer and every bit of hot weather that comes with it, I am very excited for this change of seasons. Fall brings perfectly painted leaves, boots, and pumpkin spice lattes. Each day is one closer to Christmas and to seeing my friends who are traveling the world this semester. I'm not too big on writing, so I'll leave the wise words to my girl Macrina. But really, it's crazy how accurately this reflects my heart.

I worry too much. Autumn trees ask me not to worry. They, like Jesus, suggest trust rather than worry. So often in autumn I want to go lean my head against a tree and ask what it feels like to lose so much, to be so empty, so detached, to take off one's shoes that well, and then simply to stand and wait for God's refilling. It sounds so simple, so easy. It isn't easy. But it is possible.
I think I've met one person in my lifetime who was truly empty. I didn't ask her what it felt like, but i remember a quiet joy that seemed to permeate her spirit, and she looked free.
We autumn strugglers must try hard not to wear discouragement as a cloak if we can't wear enough emptiness to make us free. It takes a long time to get as far as even wanting to be empty.
Once we discover that we already possess enough grace to let go, trust begins to form in the center of who we are. Then we can take off our shoes and stand empty and vulnerable, eager to receive God's next gift.
-Macrina Wiederkehr