Val's View: Seasonal and Life Transitions

“Change is the Only Constant”- Heraclitus

The passage of time is marked by the four seasons, though we don’t experience the seasonal transitions here in South Florida like other parts of the country. Our latitude allows us to frolic all year outdoors, but Mother Nature will throw us a curveball sometimes. When she does, we hunker down, weather the storm, and keep calm and carry on. Like the seasons, life moves forward, and the milestones come and go. Children grow like grass in the summer. As a mother, my son’s years from kindergarten to college seemed to fly by. No matter which season you thrive in, shifts and transitions will keep us aware of the need to stretch and grow.

“What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger”- Nietzsche

It’s a harsh truth, but everyone struggles; the important thing is to try to grow from it. So many creative and profound works have been born from hardships by people in the autumn of their lives. Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright had no college degree, yet he designed over 1,000 structures throughout his 70-year career. In his last years, he even drafted one of his most iconic buildings, the Guggenheim Museum; he envisioned it as a “temple of the spirit.” Ringo Starr of the Beatles is 81 and still touring and carrying himself like a true rock star. Luchita Hurtado became an art world sensation in her nineties! Vintage is hot: cars, clothing, collectibles, and people too!

Seasons Evolve As We Do

The complexity of steering our inner GPS through waters both calm and choppy can be an exciting journey. We can find our brains on autopilot until a glimpse of a gorgeous summer sunset through the rearview mirror prompts us to calibrate. A crisp breeze in November tells us that the holidays are around the corner, and we will soon be celebrating with loved ones. Searching for connection and purpose is an innate part of the human experience.

Growing Pains

To grow as people toward self-actualization, we must first have our physiological, safety, love, and self-esteem needs met, according to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. We have to attend to the basics before we can reach our potential. We respond to our environments and express our emotions by experience and transformation. The world is always in flux which is why humans are so adaptable and resilient. Empty nest syndrome has been a huge hurdle for me. On one hand, no more carpooling and endless dishes to be done, but on the other hand, my son’s shining face isn't there daily. Kids provide hope and inspire you to attempt the impossible to give them the best life that you can. When they leave home, you must learn to find optimism and drive by developing as a person in other areas.

Spring/Summer vs. Autumn/Winter

Do you prefer a lazy summer day of relaxation or cooler sweater weather? I like both! I’m heading to Boston soon, and I plan to pack a Classic Pullover Sweater by Avalin. Mine is the “ocean” color because I wear my love for Miami beaches on my sleeve no matter where I travel! The sweater’s texture is so yummy and cozy. Cold weather sparks energy, and who doesn't want more of that? I look forward to a change of scenery and a fresh perspective- that’s why travel makes us appreciate other people's lifestyles and vice versa. When we do return home to our own nest, we can find new gratitude in the special creature comforts we’ve worked so hard to establish.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my musings on coping with life’s changes. Let me know in the comments below what you think!