Now that summer is winding down you might be feeling a little low. It’s quite normal considering we need to get back into the regular work routine — and for those who have kids, having them back at school can bring a whole new batch of stresses! — and the evenings are drawing in, and life just doesn’t seem so carefree.
However, while summer can be a blessing, it can also really drag on. Sometimes it’s comforting to be in the work/school routine, and to know how your day is going to be structured. And if you think about it, there are many other reasons to embrace September. Here are just a few!
1
A time to reboot
It’s quite natural before the vacations to feel frustrated, especially with work. You might not have enough challenges, you might be lacking in energy to deal with projects that need to be dealt with. However, roll on September and you’ll have a new sense of direction, and a desire to take on new challenges. It can be invigorating and create new opportunities.
This also extends to family life. Perhaps you may have let things slide a little over the summer. Well now is the opportunity to get the kids back into their routine, to address any issues and use the new academic year as an excuse to get everything back on track.
2
September delights
While summer brings a myriad of delights to the senses — the scent of the flowers, the sounds of the ocean, and even the cries of delight when kids splash around — the month of September creates a very different feeling.
Although the garden might not be in full bloom, we can see that nature is getting ready to rest. And with that we’re invited to spend cozy evenings indoors, light some candles, and get ready to swap out ice cream for a hot chocolate — complete with whipped cream and marshmallows for those with a real sweet tooth! It’s really a moment when we can reflect on the joys of summer, and the joys that are to follow, such as snuggling in your favorite pullover.
3
A time for spiritual growth
Although many of us think of January as a time for new resolutions, September is equally a period of transition that invites us to consider our personal and spiritual growth. With your children you might want to incorporate new prayer time into your new family routine. With Thanksgiving and Advent not too far off, you can really use this time to focus on gratitude.
4
Embrace the outdoors differently
In the summer, while we might spend time outside, we tend to lounge around more due to the heat. Once September arrives, we can pursue more energetic activities and really make the most of God’s Creation. With autumn bringing about so many changes, there’s so much to see, and admire. The ever-changing trees offer us a great moment to reflect on the cycle of life, and of course, you can’t beat the crispness of a nice seasonal apple!
5
There’s so much to celebrate…
For Christians, September is also full of significant feast days. From the Nativity of Mary and the feast of St. Mother Teresa, to Michaelmas that sees us honor the archangels, it’s also a month dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows.
And as we’ve already mentioned, Advent is only three months away (although less now) and the there’s lots to get excited about in the lead up to this special moment in the Catholic Church.
And today we celebrate...