Seasons

Yesterday, we enjoyed the beauties and wonders of nature. When I asked Claudia what she wanted for breakfast before we headed out, she said, let's go to Dunkin Donuts and get some donuts and hot chocolate; that's a perfect way to start a fall day. So, with donuts and hot chocolate in hand, we drove to one of the forest preserves to admire and to take pictures of the beautiful fall leaves. We sat in the parking lot and enjoyed our yummy, but not so healthy breakfast and then walked to explore the leaves. I know that my ability to see colors has not improved, but for whatever reason, the colors this fall just seem to be far more brilliant to my eye.

We drove from that preserve into another and we're awed by the beauties of nature. As we walked, we listened to and watched geese flying South for the inevitable winter weather soon to be upon us. As we strolled hand in hand, I couldn't help but think of just how blessed I am to know that a loving Father in Heaven has provided this beautiful earth and a myriad of creatures and plant life to make our journey here even more enjoyable. On top of that, He gave us companions, family and friends to further enhance the journey.

Much like the seasons of the weather that provide variety, beauty and challenges, he also provides different seasons in our lives. I reflect on the season of a house full of little children and the joys, demands and experiences of those years. I remember the season of teenagers and young adults eager to spread their wings and experience the wonders of life; always wishing they were adults so they could do what they wanted to do.

I reflect on the season of supporting missionaries and college students which lead right into the season of weddings and the start of new lives together and the start of new families.

Through all of those seasons, was the season to work and toil to earn a living and provide for the necessities of life and a few of the pleasures. Through all of those seasons, there are ups and downs, challenges and frustrations, heartache and joy, laughter and tears, opportunities to serve. And all of this so that we can learn, grow and become and experience all that is necessary for us to return to our heavenly home.

I'm grateful to be in the season of life that I am. Most of the worries and cares of those earlier seasons are behind me and I can enjoy the fall of my life, serving side by side my sweetheart and having time to just walk among the leaves and enjoy the things around me. I am blessed beyond measure and know that I am known and loved by the Father of all, who wants me to continue to work on becoming like him so that I can enjoy the seasons that lie ahead.

I encourage you to take pause to reflect on whatever season you are in and enjoy the wonders of life that surround you. I know that as sure as winter follows fall, a loving Father in Heaven knows us and loves us and is there to cheer us on and encourage us to stay the course. May you have a marvelous week enjoying whatever season you are in. I love you.

Elder Taggart