Embracing Autumn's Palette: A Symphony of Gratitude and Reflection

There are many aspects of autumn that make it a favorite season for so many. The particular sights, sounds, and flavors envelop us like a cozy throw blanket: A mug of steaming apple cider enjoyed by a crackling fire; a walk through the woods with its pulsing glow, leaves shuffling underfoot; an earthy scent in the air; an undercurrent of excitement that the holiday season is coming soon.

I find the vibrant visual quality of autumn leaves to be incredibly energizing. I am partial to Sweetgums, with their glossy leaves in a range of hues from translucent yellow to deep purple that cling to the branches until late in the season. I am content, as Walt Whitman penned, “To stand and look at them long and long.” Because the season is fleeting, we are compelled to savor it, and perhaps that is part of its appeal. We need all of Fall’s elements to fortify our senses before we head into the cold, gray days of winter.

Looking closely at the leaves on a tree near our office, I noted that each one was its own mad, multicolored self. Then I thought, “These leaves are analogous to people: each with our own variations.” Then I looked up “analogous” to ensure that I was using it correctly, and the example Webster used was “Timbre in music is analogous to color in painting.” Then I thought, “How serendipitous! A tie-in to the auditory art of music and visual art of painting which, in turn, is similar to the visual art of the autumn leaves.” Then I took a nap, exhausted from these deep thoughts.

While interacting with other people, it behooves us to admire their variations. You might think your yellow clashes with someone else’s purple, but those hues are complementary on the color wheel and might be in personalities. Think of what you share in common with that person, or what you can learn from their perspective. Our Heartland Sings staff has gotten richer as it has gotten more diverse, as we share about our origins and cultural traditions.

This is a good thought to keep in mind as it relates to our family members heading into the holiday season. My whole family will be together for Thanksgiving this year, and I’m looking forward to it with great anticipation. But I know there are those who do not easily get along with certain relatives, and many families are fractured. Perhaps you can grab a bold autumn leaf and tuck it into your breast pocket or purse to remind you to be patient with your multicolored kinfolk so things don’t get testy over the turkey.

In this season of gratitude, I want to express how appreciative I am for each of you who support the mission and vision of Heartland Sings.

Happy Thanksgiving!