“But there is always a November space after the leaves have fallen when she felt it was almost indecent to intrude on the woods…for their glory terrestrial had departed and their glory celestial of spirit and purity and whiteness had not yet come upon them.”
– LM Montgomery (from Anne of Green Gables series)
Some of the leaves have fallen. The ones that remain are drying out. They hold on a bit longer, not yet ready to surrender. My heart has felt the same at times.
I’m feeling November-y today. The burst of fall colors fading. The gift of birth not yet upon us. Wrapping up writing every day for a month. Not yet sure where focus for new words lies. This in between space.
We are adjusting to the time change, fighting off sniffles and ready for a day of no school tomorrow.
And so our whole household lets out a November sigh. But I know there is more to November, if we hold on till the end of the month.
Barren
Gray
Transition
Thankful
Grateful
Harvest
At first glance, it seems these words that come to mind are at opposite ends of the spectrum.
But the truth is, I know their connection all too well.
It is these gray places that give us space to remember what we are grateful for. When things have been stripped away we can see clearly how much we already have. A barren gratitude that clarifies and focuses our hearts.
Will you join with me this November as I seek to give thanks? Thanks in the gray and barren and times of change. Thanks for the harvest and abundance and provision. A grateful heart in all and for all.
As I look back over the last few days, my heart swells with gratitude for…..
Rob’s co-workers and the way they deeply care for each other.
Sam’s love of going to archery on Mondays.
Sunday lunch and rest time at my moms.
A place for Bella to grow in her attachment.
Friends that see me and know me.
A neighborhood that is filled with laughter as soon as the afternoon bus drops off.
Trees that let me share their sorrow.
At the end of each post this month, I will add on to my gratitude list. I would love if you join in too, just add in the comments what you are grateful for as you reflect back on your last few days.
(This is a rewrite of Barren Gratitude which was posted in November 2014)
Linking with Thankful Thursday
Thankful for you! That it’s Nov 5th and you’re still sharing yourself with us. 🙂
❤️
Beautiful words! Some great things to be grateful for too. We also do Sunday lunch at my parents’ place and love the rest that comes there. Thanks for joining in at Thankful Thursday!
We’re trying to sell our home and it is taking some effort and causing frustration. I am thankful that in this quiet, gently raining morning, I remember how grateful I am for this home, for all it has meant to me. It feels like a burden now but it has been his gift in more ways than I can count and I’m grateful.