Seasons of life

Seasons come and seasons go, we look forward to each season with regret and happiness. We embrace the joys and challenges that each season has to give, we grow.

I was with a group of teachers not too long ago and one of them was so excited to live in an area, once again with seasons. She anticipated the scents of cinnamon and pumpkin, shorter days and warm, cozy fires warming her house. Awe, seasons. As with the yearly seasons, seasons of life bring joys and challenges. For me, autumn joys are raking the leaves every weekend in October, keeping the gutters clear for all the expected rain. Most of all, warm foods like hearty soups and spice tea.

Presently, I have entered a new season, one I have watch and supported others walk through as well.  I am a parent of grown children and aging parents. This season, like others, seems to hold a new role for me as I am sandwiched between these generations.

I am learning with my oldest son a new territory of communicating I am more attentive to listen and offer feedback when he asks. Of course, this learning is a result of a misunderstanding between us. I thought I was stating my opinion of what I thought he should do; he thought I was telling him to do something. Any who…. I’m learning a place of release, letting go of the provider I have been, let him make money decisions and purchase that he wants. I won’t be buying him shoes.

 I’m learning to put his needs and passions ahead of my mommy desires. Learning, to listen with my heart, releasing him to find his way in this world to become.

In reflection, it is the same with my parents. I need to listen to them for how they want to live out their remaining years. I am releasing them to become more dependent on me; I am taking on the role as caretaker.  A release to have them communicates to me how they will die. A release, so I can find my way without them.

This season of letting go and hanging on will bring its joys and challenges with a growth for becomingjayne.