“He found himself wondering at times, especially in the autumn, about the wild lands, and strange visions of mountains that he had never seen came into his dreams… He looked at maps, and wondered what lay beyond their edges.”

― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

Change can be difficult, but sometimes it’s easier when combined with an external cue. The shifting of seasons is such an opportunity. Change is all around us this time of year: summer vacations ending, school years beginning, leaves changing colors, short sleeves exchanged for sweaters. 

In this atmosphere of transition, consider putting to practice a change you’ve been putting off. It doesn’t have to be big: one less cup of coffee in the morning, a five-minute exercise routine, or even finally taking that daytrip to see the autumn leaves that you always say you’d like to do.

It’s often easier to do something new with a partner, but that partner doesn’t have to be a person. Use the inevitable tide of change that’s occurring all around you this time of year as the motivation you need. Whenever you look out the window and see those golden leaves, let it be a reminder of the change you want to put into practice.

Note to readers: Each week, I share a fantasy quote and indulge my inner philosopher with a brief essay based on said quote. Share your favorite quote with me and I might feature it in a future newsletter! Email: dtkane@dtkane.com.

Photo: Greenway Trail, Southern Tier, NY (Photo Credit: D. T. Kane)