It might seem odd to talk about winter in September, especially with the lingering memories of a hot and humid August still on my mind.  One of the things I love about the Midwest weather, though, is that it is always changing.  It was cold, grey, and dark last winter, and then there were the bright and sunny spring days that evolved into some beautiful summer nights.  And here we are in a cool and blustery fall, waiting for the winter to come back.

This change is a great metaphor for life, and it reminds us that everything is impermanent and in a state of flux.  When you learn to appreciate what is right here and now, life seems to flow a little easier.  For example, I think that people love the summer in Chicago because it’s not always there.  It’s a fleeting experience that only lasts a few months (and it always seems shorter) and everyone focuses on enjoying it while they can.

Nothing lasts forever.  What can you appreciate today?