Natasha E. Schmidt (Provided by Author) InterFaith Works of Central New York This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY.
Follow this theme and author posted Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. As summer begins to fade, the days grow shorter, and the air carries the first crisp hints of autumn. The vibrant greens of the trees give way to hues of gold, amber, and crimson.
This seasonal transition, so gentle yet inevitable, mirrors the natural cycles of our lives—a powerful reminder of the beauty in letting go. Summer, with its long days, gifts of the warm nurturing sun, it’s often a time of growth and abundance. It’s when we revel in the fullness of life, much like the trees in their lush greenery and gardens all in bloom.
But just as the trees must shed their leaves to prepare for winter’s stillness, we, too, must learn to release what no longer serves us. Letting go is not always easy; it can feel like the end of something cherished. Yet, it is in this act of release that we make space for new possibilities to take root.
As the leaves fall gracefully to the ground, they remind us that there is beauty in surrender. The trees stand tall and bare, yet they do so with quiet confidence, knowing that this season of dormancy is temporary and necessary for future growth. When we let go of old habits, outdated beliefs, or lingering doubts, we create space for new budding ideas, relationships, and opportunities to flourish.
Welcoming the possibilities of what’s to come requires trust in the natural flow of life. Just as the trees trust spring will bring renewal, we must trust that by letting go, we are opening ourselves up to the abundance that lies ahead. The turning of the seasons is a testament to the ever-present cycles of change, growth, and renewal.
So, as summer turns into fall, take a moment to reflect on what you’re ready to release. What can you let go of in order to grow into something new? I invite you to embrace the change with an open heart and welcome the endless possibilities that await. Natasha E.
Schmidt is the spiritual director and enrichment coordinator for Unity of Syracuse, and serves on the Round Table of Faith Leaders at InterFaith Works..
