An Autumn Walk

The following poem was used as part of a talk during a recent church sermon. I thought it was rather timely. If you look real hard at the photo posted you can see Bella enjoying an Autumn walk.

Speaking of Bella, her Up North adventures continue. Last night's adventure outside well into the night and early morning hours is one story you have to hear. She is begging to blog so we are saving the tale for another day's posting. Check back!

Autumn

by Fr. Edward Hays

priest, author and spiritual guidance director

O sacred season of Autumn, be my teacher,

for I wish to learn the value of contentment.

As I gaze upon your full-colored beauty,

I sense all about you

an at-homeness with your amber riches.

You are the season of retirement,

of full barns and harvested fields.

The cycle of growth has ceased,

and the busy work of giving life

is now completed.

I sense in you no regrets:

you've lived a full life.

I live in a society that is ever-restless,

always eager for more mountains to climb, seeking happiness through more.

As a child of my culture,

I am seldom at peace with what I have.

Teach me to take stock of what I have given and received;

may I know that it's enough,

that my striving can cease

in the abundance of God's grace.

May I know the contentment

that allows the totality of my energies

to come to full flower.

May I know that like you I am rich beyond measure.

As you, O Autumn, take pleasure in your great bounty,

let me also take delight

in the abundance of the simple things in life

which are the true source of joy.

With the golden glow of peaceful contentment

may I truly appreciate this Autumn day.

May your Autumn days be filled with color, vitality and gratitude.