Changing Seasons of Life

I was reflecting on the future today and the changes coming soon in my life. I will complete my three year term on the Regional Arts Council of Zachary at the end of the year. I plan on rewriting and expanding the book “History of Zachary United Methodist Church” for the first six months of 2015. I recently read and was reminded that God stands with us during our changing seasons of life. This painting takes me back to a time I stood looking at the Gulf of Mexico and pondered my future some twenty years ago. Surely, we do have changing seasons in our lives.

When I turned 50 and then 60 I felt little different than every other birthday. I turned 70 this July and I do sense change in my body and I can no longer push myself the way I did for years. Now I realize my time to make positive change is short. I have a needle point my daughter Tina made me many Christmas ago that is one of my favorite poems: “If I should live to a ripe old age, may I possess some bit of individuality, charm and wit, that I may not be discarded when I am withered, worn and weak, but sought after and cherished, like a fine antique.” I try to live a Christian life and think of others. Time will only tell if I am discarded or cherished. My job is to give each day the best I have. I know the choices I make today will define my future. The season I enter today may be less productive, but only God knows.

2015 offers a needed transition back to my writing. It is a welcome change and will allow me to paint again too. One of the students I substitute teach, recently ask me “Are you old enough to retire Mrs. Harmon?” I responded that yes, on a calendar, I am eligible to retire but I hope I never stop working and learning. Learning, especially, is the seasoning in my life. I wish my family and friends a great 2015 with lots of seasoning!