The transition into October was met with cool weather and the changing of the leaves from green to various shades of orange, red, and yellow. The visible signs of the fall can produce a feeling of euphoria at the thought of the upcoming holidays. Although we continue to be amid a pandemic, family members will find creative ways to celebrate and remain safe.

Likewise, there are those planning weekend trips to mountainous regions to visually absorb the picturesque fall landscape. Then there are some others who will visit stores or engage in on-line shopping to locate the perfect ornament and other accessories to celebrate the upcoming holidays.

Fall is representative of many things. In its most simplistic form, it is the back-breaking time of the year to rake leaves and pile it into brown lawn and leaf bags. In contrast, fall is a time of transformation. I am still amazed at how God can take a green leaf and gradually change its texture and color. Then, cause the leaf to wither and fall to expose a bear tree.

However, the transition to fall presents a different set of circumstances for yet some others. This time of the year can exacerbate emotions due to the emphasis on family gatherings. In addition to this, some people are experiencing financial challenges due to unemployment or underemployment. Then, there are those who have found themselves visiting food banks or drive-thru food lines due to their insecurities. This time of the year can cast a bright light on family separations. Yet still, there are those families who are trying to strategize how to not only provide gifts to their children, but how they will keep them in the safety of four walls and a ceiling.

Oftentimes, when our basic needs are not met, it is difficult to focus on anything else. People place their trust in government officials to supply them of their every need only to be disappointed. With that said, the core theme of Vision Beyond Eyesight, LLC, is “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2 NKJV). This verse challenges us to alter our thinking patterns from an earthly perspective to one of spirituality. The book of Hebrews tells us that “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). For instance, an earthly thought may sound like, “How am I going to get through this. I have little money and do not know how I am going to pay this month’s rent, let alone eat.” On the contrary, a person progressing towards transformative thinking may say, “You know, my situation may look bad, but I know He will bring me through this. I may not have much, but I have my health and strength. I may not have the money for carry out, but I have some food to make a meal.”

Ultimately, I may not be able to change my situation, but I can change my perception of the situation.

• Going back to the concept of fall, what are some areas in your life that need to be transformed?

• What are some habits that need to be placed in a bag and discarded?

• How will you start the process of renewing your mind?

As you engage in self-reflection, please be honest and patient with yourself. The transformation process takes time, and you will experience progress, setbacks, and challenges.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post.