It can be depressing to think about how short-lived the fall colors are, and how the leaves fall to their deaths right afterwards. But what’s fascinating is that these fallen leaves continue to have an important purpose to fulfill. After they fall to the ground, decomposing leaves offer nutrients to the soil, stopping the growth of weeds and aiding in plant growth.
We, too, experience death and resurrection on a regular basis; “little deaths” that can lead to new life later. Any change in life can be our leaves: graduation, changing jobs, retirement, saying goodbye to a loved one, or relocating are just some examples.
It can be tempting to want to fast forward to the greenery of spring, but fall is a natural part of nature’s life cycle – just as it is a natural part of our lives. There is beauty in both parts – in the gorgeous changing leaves, and in the delightful new plant life that the fallen and decomposing leaves help grow.
Whenever we experience a “little death” in our lives, we can remember that resurrection and new life is right around the corner.
This message is excerpted from “Leaves” by Becca Ehrlich from the October 27, 2022, blog of the Women of the ELCA.
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