Signs of Transition

Today seemed to mark the transition to autumn in this part of the Mid-Atlantic region. There have been hints and feints over the past several weeks, as color started to appear in the trees, some leaves fell, and the nights got chillier.

The early morning temperature was in the mid 30s, so the air was brisk as I walked to work. But when I left work in the afternoon, it felt even colder, although it was 50 degrees. The sky was gray and a brisk breeze came from the east.

In the spring and the fall, some days are challenging to dress for, as the temperature can change a lot between morning and evening. I especially have to watch for the mornings that seem comfortable with lighter clothing – but by afternoon a cold front or stiff wind will demand more layers. I’ve been caught in a few very chilly walks home.

The forecast is for overnight temperatures in the 30s tonight, with frost in nearby areas, but not closer in to the city where we live. Still, the trees will be quickly turning color now, and in a few weeks will be bare branches, ready for the winter.

I’m reaching a similar time of transition in my life, though it likely will play out over a few years rather than a few weeks. I can sense the transition from my current work, which has been my vocation for 25 years, to retirement, or some other kind of work that will come after.

Like the cooler temperatures and the turning leaves, there are signs - more thoughts about what is next – acceptance, even anticipation, that change is coming. I have a growing realization that while I have been fortunate to have challenging and meaningful work, there are many other things that I am interested in learning about and doing, and the time for doing them is diminishing.

That said, I don’t feel like my leaves are dropping anytime soon. In many ways I feel more fit and energized than I have in many years – yoga is a good practice for physical and mental well-being. But perhaps I can sense my leaves starting to change color a bit, and it’s a sign to be looking ahead to the seasons to come.