“Everything has seasons, and we have to be able to recognize when something’s time has passed and be able to move into the next season. Everything that is alive requires pruning as well, which is a great metaphor for endings.”
~Dr. Henry Cloud

September is a whisper away, and the end of summer within arm’s reach.

The leaves on the island are already beginning to turn colour as the light fades sooner each evening.

There is a bitter-sweetness to fall: sadness for the end of summer warmth coupled with a sense of renewed excitement; it’s back to school season with a new start and fresh chances.

Time to close up the cottage and change the summer wardrobe to fall clothes.

Time to put away the flip-flops with sadness, but get out the cashmere sweaters with fondness.

I will miss fresh peach pie, but look forward to hot chocolate in front of the fire.

I have recommended Dr. Cloud’s book Integrity: The Courage to Meet the Demands of Reality before. I will continue to do so.

His quote today causes me to ponder the inherent paradoxes in life and the necessity for each of us to learn how to navigate and find our own balance within them, for therein lies the secret to a rewarding, fulfilling life.

Paradoxes are inherent to life itself, and to each of us individually. Understanding that is powerful medicine.

I am reminded of the number of very successful men and women from all industries who often reflect that the early days of their careers—fraught with challenges and struggle—were often the best times, when they learned and grew and took shape.

Success in the midst of failure.

Endings and beginnings.

Paradoxes.

Balance.

Nature needs pruning and so do we.

“Every new beginning is some beginning’s end.”