Soul Ache Season
Falls are sometimes hard in my household. My wife and I both lost beloved parents during this season, and the cold transition to Fall makes it all the more difficult to cope. Life in the Northern Hemisphere comes to an eerie still as we draw close and closer to Winter Solstice. This season has brought a deeper sense of reflection than ever before, instead of the my typical habit of ruminating over my own struggles to any ear willing to listen.
The Elder
Most recently, the image of The Elder has pressed upon my heart and has given great perspective to my hard days. Our elders carry burdens and heartaches they would never wish upon us. We encounter older folks that have hearts of gold, and then other times you meet someone that is angry and bitter at life.
But imagine for a moment the trials and tribulations that older generations have faced in life. They have likely lost their mother and father, perhaps even siblings and best friends. In this still very new age of technology, they have witnessed relationships shift from "my door is (literally) always open" to scheduling meet-ups through a palm sized device. And if you don't text and aren't on Facebook, forget about it! Their kids may never call or visit, if they have kids at all. They may be losing their vision, stamina and independence. When you peer into the eyes and see the soul of a grandparent or great aunt, so many of our woes simply fade in light of all they have fought in life to stand before you today.
Be Kind, Be Tender
I know this image is sobering and perhaps even uncomfortable to wrestle with, but I hope the image of The Elder reminds us to be kind to one another. To be tender. To remember that we are not alone in the pains we carry and often our loads next to some may be light.
