Fall Thoughts, God's Plans

I often think about the past, not so much as to relive in that time and place, but instead to gain perspective and appreciation. Reflecting upon the past year, season or whatever it is can bring nostalgia and memorable moments, as well as a sense of gratitude and vision that only looking back can give.

In my life right now, I feel and know that it is so, due to prayers and there is perspective that comes with it. Every time I see Mt. Diablo up ahead in the distance at my work, I can't help but think of New Years Day this year and going up there, always seeing this landmark from my old job and relating it back to Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati and his love for hiking and feeling that the higher you go, the easier it is to hear God's voice. When I see this Mountain now, I recall all those things, as well as how this landmark can also symbolize as faith and trust in God.

Passing Starbucks on my way to work has its own memories as well. I think about my first time going to that one in May and how rejuvenating it was after a busy work week. I think about my time studying for the English CBEST section this summer and unsure of how my plans, ideas, and hopes would unfold. I now also associate it with visiting with a friend and refreshing conversations and quality time together:)

I can't help but reflect upon last Fall season and all that was stirring in my heart. It didn't feel like there was a lot going on in my schedule, but rather in my thoughts, spiritual life and heart. There were a lot of transitions happening at that time, but they were not easy at all. And it was very easy and tempting to miss the Fall prior and all its excitement, novelty and joy and to dislike the present. But there was a lot going on and a lot of good, but it was hard to see in the moment.

 I can see it more clearly now. I had an open schedule and I was growing and changing in ways I hadn't expected. I had time to volunteer, time to go to Mass and pray and go to adoration, time to dread tutoring and the burn out I was feeling. I had time to meet up with a contact for coffee, time to make dinners that were inspiring, time to read, write and reflect, and time to go on long walks and runs. I had time to study Arabic and go to coffee shops, and be by myself. I had time to think about the future and see the transition from student to working woman. I had time to be with my dear sister and her baby inside her womb and pray at 40 days and go out to lunch with my mom. And I had time to thank God for all that He had done in my life that year, and see what He would do in the next.

Now a year later, so much has happened, and there have been quite a few transitions. I feel like I'm  in a completely different place. I am even more grateful for all that has happened, and what I've learned this year since I am even more thankful and understanding to see God's hand and plans at work through it all. Happy start to Fall, cooler weather and more reminiscing; it's my favorite time of year!