Seasonal Reminders

“To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring.” – George Santayana

I’m very lucky that I get to see many participant cohorts on multiple occasions within a year. Some client schools I am even lucky enough to work with students right throughout their Primary School journey. It really is inspiring to be a piece of the educational puzzle within the growth and development of these incredible individuals and groups. It’s just funny though that the tree pictured above got me reflecting on this privilege last week. It jumped out at me as I walked through a school courtyard.

“Embrace the current season of your life.” – Gabrielle Blair

It’s leaves were back; so full and vibrant. This was such a contrast to last noticing this tree a few months ago when its branches were so bare and stark. I love seasonal reminders like this one. It’s like a jolt caused by noticing a variation of colour, temperature, loss, growth, or any number of other changes that are always happening. Whether we notice or not doesn’t mean that the subtle or obvious isn’t there. The act of noticing though can definitely assist us as we embrace the present moment without attaching a lens of needing permanence, as the quote above suggests.

“Each moment of the year has its own beauty.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

As we enter this final ‘season’ of the current school year I love talking to teachers about all the connection, growth and learning that’s taken place this year. Their pride in their students authentic progress shows up in stories of the ups and downs, sweat and tears, and courageous daily thoughts, words and actions that makes up learning journeys like those occuring in the wholeness of a full year. Schools can be such busy places, with such diverse and complex needs being catered for and navigated, so creating space and time for noticing through reflection, celebration and appreciation can be so important.

“Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.” -Elizabeth Lawrence