Hands down, fall is my favorite time of year. I love cooler weather! I love how the leaves change color in so many parts of the country - not so in Beaufort, where life seems to be eternally green, but you get the idea. To me, there is this time of gathering, of harvesting food, and even friends and family. For those who participate in Halloween festivities, there is the gathering of candy. Fall is a time for family traditions. For those who participate in Dia de los Muertos, All Saints and All Souls Days, families gather together to remember their loved ones who have passed on. Those who celebrate Thanksgiving, gather together over a blessed, shared dinner to be thankful for what they have and how far they have come as a family unit. I know that nature goes into hibernation, but I feel wide awake this time of year. I look forward to festive folks – those who have love and peace flowing out of them. Loving traits that show all year long, seem to burn more brightly this time of year, as they share their good fortunes, be it a smile, a hug, a warm handshake, family recipes, favorite cocktails, warm clothes and blankets. Sometimes this giving happens because of a gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit, sometimes it's a group giving. However it happens, there is always one on the receiving end, who is most appreciative. We should never forget that there is always someone in need of a blessing. This entry is short, because to me love comes easy. I grew up in an environment where love came freely, and I gave it right back. Not everyone has this kind of heritage, but that shouldn't stop anyone from appreciating those who want to spread love and kindness, nor should it stop anyone from learning how to accept it, along with decency and respect. In this spirit, along with the Gullah/Geechee community, I invite you to celebrate Heritage Days at Penn Center this year, November 7 - 9. It's always a good time, always with good people. Enjoy!
Comments