Summer has slipped away, and fall has arrived as of September 22 at 8:31 am EDT. Today is the Fall Equinox which simply means that the sun crosses the celestial equator and heads south. The hours of daylight and darkness are each 12 hours.
Traditionally, it is the end of harvests and time to prepare for winter. As we visit the farmer’s markets, we see an abundance of fall crops. New apples, pumpkins, and gourds show off their fall colors. We notice seasonal decorations and cornucopias that welcome this new season.
The fall equinox reminds us to be grateful for what we have accomplished or harvested in our own lives to date.
Cooler weather is ahead. Soon instead of closing out my day sitting out on my deck and watching the birds I will be lighting a candle and ending my day in the living room. Warm throws will be taken out of storage and tossed on the couch. Summer clothes will be packed away or discarded and the fall wardrobe will be put in a more accessible place in my closet and dresser.
As we notice the leaves fall from the tree and admire the beauty of the bare branches, we might look around our homes and see if there is anything that’s ready to be dropped or released. We know that if we are willing to let things go, it will make way for new possibilities.
Fall seems a time to reflect and look inwards. A time to count our blessings and look at how we want our year to finish. Today at the Equinox, day and night are balanced. This is a time to reflect and notice our balance. Does one part of our lives need to be trimmed back and another filled out?
Even though many of us are sad to see summer go, fall has its own beauty and things to teach us if we allow ourselves to be open to change.
Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients tackle the toughest organizational issues. Jonda does hands on organizing and virtual organizing. For more of Jonda’s tips connect with her on Facebook.