Traditions are one of my favorite parts of fall. College homecoming. Friendsgiving. Thanksgiving. School pictures. Preparing for Christmas. Basketball season beginning.
There are some dates on our fall calendar that remain every year. I like the repetition. We share tradition meals with people we love. And we root for our Racers – who happen to be playing some decent football this year leading into basketball season.
Since moving to the country 2 ½ years ago, I especially the colors of fall that surround me. The leaves were perfection this week. I’ve had a million things running through my mind, but then I look at the colorful leaves and God reminds no season on our calendars or in our lives is forever.
I’m 63% extroverted. I don’t like being the center of attention. I don’t like speaking to crowds. But I am filled up by vulnerable conversations around a table. Even when this activity is repeated, it’s never the same. The traditions I love are centered around the people they involve.
This week that looked like meeting with a couple who is ready to pursue adoption but wanted to ask questions of someone who has walked through that; being with my Bible study girls after too long of not seeing them; inviting myself over to visit with a friend who has be part of several seasons of my life; lunching with one friend; and catching up with a friend over nachos. My personality means I’m looking forward to an early Friendsgiving with my best friends this weekend because that is how my soul rests.
This world can be overwhelming with its headlines and conflicts and brokenness. But those situations won’t last forever because God promises this is not the end of the story. Until then, he gives me people with whom I love sharing a table and shows his glory in the leaves.
Let’s mark the traditions on the calendar, still be aware of spontaneous goodness, and repeat it all over with each season that comes.
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It’s been a long while, but I’m joining the Five Minute Friday writing crew with this free write on the prompt REPEAT.
Love this! The colors of Fall are always stunning to me. And friends…I have so many amazing friends but none of them are in my current city. That is so hard! I know it’s only been a year but still praying for God to bring friends into my life. I yearn for the kind of community you speak of here in my current city.
I hope you can find (or maybe even better, CREATE) that kind of community. It can be hard work to find it or make it, but it’s always, always worth it. I’m glad to see you here, Tara! xo
I love traditions as well! Beautifully written.
Love, Traci
http://www.tracimichele.com
Thanks, Traci! xo
Kristin,
Connecting is so sacred. Indeed, it’s a way that we see God’s glory. “Let’s mark the traditions on the calendar, still be aware of spontaneous goodness, and repeat it all over with each season that comes.” What a great exhortation!
Yes, connecting is sacred, and I appreciate your encouragement here. Thanks for being here!