Changes are coming. For those of us in the northern hemisphere, we just moved into fall and are looking forward to the short dark days of winter. For those of us in the southern hemisphere, spring has come and long, warm summer days aren’t far off. The seasons are a-changin’, that’s for sure. But then, so are we.
We often look at the four seasons – Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter – as something that happens in nature. Each season has particular weather patterns for the area we live in and the flora and fauna react accordingly. We don’t necessarily think about ourselves being connected to Earth in such a way that we also are affected by the changes in the seasons, but we are. We are as tied to the seasons as every other living thing on Earth is.
While accepting change can be a daunting task, let’s try to open our hearts and minds to discover how the seasons affect us and embrace these changes.
Spring
The freshness of spring is fed by the melt of winter. Earth is renewed, babies are born, and they grow and develop. Wilderness is green, fresh, vibrant, and new. This reminds us of the long-ago glories of last spring, and hope abounds. Just as Earth is renewed, so are we. We can find a new spirit, see a new grace, and experience freshness of thought and love. Spring in our thoughts and lives can lead to decluttering, a fresh new outlook, and new motivation.
Summer
After the newness of spring comes the full magnificence of summer. Babies are grown and becoming independent, flowers are in full bloom, fruit is ripening, the days are long and full of sunshine, and Earth responds. Just as Earth is full of bountiful fruit, we can see summer manifested in our lives as we see the fruits of our new outlook and motivation. Our plans and efforts have great outcomes and we’re in the bounties of success and power in our own lives.
Autumn
As Earth starts to wind down after a glorious summer, the leaves change to brilliant golds, oranges, reds, purples, and browns in one last hurrah. Plants are busy putting all of their energy into their roots and letting the foliage fade.
The creatures in the forests and plains start preparing for winter by gathering food, growing in their winter coat, and putting on fat stores. They slow down and move to warmer climes. We also tuck inside where it’s warmer, bring in the harvest from summer, and take our winter coats out. We do this emotionally and physically. After a great successful Summer, we wrap things up, find warmth and comfort, analyze what we need to survive the coming winter, and enjoy our bounty.
Winter
The season of winter comes to Earth with cold winds, snow, ice, and frost. Many things appear dormant. Some creatures spend much of winter hibernating or in limited activity. But under those snows, out of reach of the sharp stinging winds and bitter cold skies, Earth is still teeming with life. Cubs are still gestating, soon to be born. Seeds are waiting for the warming of the ground, and Earth is resting and regrouping. The Winter represents the tests and tribulations that every creature goes through during life here on Earth.
The Promise
No matter how tough winter gets, we can know that there’s always a promise of spring. And when we reach that spring, we’ll be stronger. Spring will be there with open arms, waiting for us with renewed energy and vibrancy. We’ll have gone full circle.
While coming to terms with the idea that change is a permanent thing in this world, it can be beautiful as well. As manifested in how the seasons change to bring us different things, we discover our ability to adapt. Accepting change can be easier if we hold on to a promise of something wonderful unfolding in our lives, one change at a time.
Whether you’re in a spiritual or emotional season of Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter, you’re powerful, strong, and resilient. Remember… Anything is possible with Lipedema!
~ Gail Straker, BAEd
Community Manager, Director of Coaching
Lipedema Simplified
Check out our Facebook Groups, Keto Lifestyle for Lipedema (https://www.facebook.com/groups/LipedemaKetoWOE), and Lipedema Simplified Support.