When I look around at all the splendid beauty this time of year, there truly is much to be thankful for. 

The trees show us just how beautiful change can be. They do not resist the fluctuation in temperatures or amount of light they receive…they simply accept the change and then let go…floating on the breeze back to Mother Earth.

The wildlife shows us the importance of preparation for the season ahead. Their diligence and tenacity in collecting and storing for themselves and their families inspires us to prepare for our own winter hibernation.

The contrast of crispness in the air in the mornings brings a freshness to the day – a contrast to the summer heat. This contrast brings about a new clarity and a gratitude for the changing seasons.

This time of year, I find myself in celebration as I harvest the bounty from the garden, make preserves and fill the freezer with delicious, wholesome foods for family and friends. I also find myself in reflection as I begin to wind the year down, contemplating such things as what did I learn? How did I grow? I’m living a life I have created, am I happy with it? Am I still living within my calling, or is a shift necessary? What am I really grateful for? How can I be even more connected with Spirit?

Contemplation during the season change feels natural, to shed the old and worn out layers of self, to be comfortable in our natural authenticity in all its raw and bare beauty, to prepare for the new growth in anticipation of spring. The cycle of life continues, and so too, must we. 

This week we are encouraged to go with the flow of change, whatever that looks like for us in this moment, to be grateful for that which we release and to celebrate all of our many blessings along the way. I find much wisdom and comfort in this Iroquois Prayer, perhaps you will too.

Iroquois Prayer of Thanksgiving

We return thanks to our Mother, the Earth, which sustains us.

We return thanks to the rivers and streams, which supply us with water.

We return thanks to all herbs, which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.

We return thanks to the moon and stars, which have given us thor light when the sun was gone.

We return thanks to the sun, that has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.

We return thanks to the Great Spirit, in whom is embodied all goodness and who directs all things for the good of Her children.

And so it is.

Xo Juli

#findingthewellinwellness