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Seasons, by Mercy Manyema


At this time of the year and in this side of the world, we are approaching winter. The leaves are changing color as quickly as the trees are shedding them. The sun sets sooner, evenings are becoming cooler and we are all bringing out our warm clothing. The seasons are changing. Just like they did last year, and the year before. 


We all go through different seasons in life. Some are predictable and some are not, some are temporary and some are lasting. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited as saying "Change is the only constant in life". The one thing we are guaranteed to face in this life is change, and changing seasons. Changing seasons can sometimes threaten our sense of security and wellbeing, and cause uncertainty, stress and anxiety. How does one navigate change without being adversely affected by it?

I looked at these trees in my yard and realised a few things that are true of the seasons of climate as well as the seasons of life. Firstly, seasons do not affect us all the same - just like some trees will shed their leaves, and some won't. The shedding of leaves or lack thereof doesn't make one tree better than the other, because they each have a different lifecycle and purpose. Secondly, the change of seasons will not necessarily change everything in your life. Its important to accept what has changed and grieve it if necessary, but to also acknowledge what has remained the same. Lastly, some changes are permanent, and some changes are only for a time. Some transitions will last forever, but some will not. 

Change is inevitable. But remember your living to this point means you have survived the changing seasons of the past. You have a good track record. And if you are willing to adjust your perspective, you can see not only the discomfort of change, but also the good that it brings out. 


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