This time of year attracts many visitors to our area, when the leaves change colors on the trees here in the mountains. I saw this recently on a sign: “Each year thousands of backpackers climb the Great Smoky Mountains…Nature’s Peace flows into them as Sunshine flows into the Trees; the Winds blow their freshness into them…and their cares drop of like Autumn leaves.” – Adapted from John Muir  In a few short weeks the leaves will drop of the trees as we transition into winter. I like this description of the process: “I realize there’s something incredibly honest about trees in winter, how they’re experts at letting things go.”

It seems that learning to “let go” is more difficult for us humans. Why is it so difficult for us to let go of things? Even though we know there are times when we really should do it? Feelings of loss can heighten the awareness for our need for security, maybe a fear of loss of control, or even concern about the future… these are some of the most common reasons we struggle with it.

“Letting go” doesn’t mean we forget the past but we do learn to deal with it and put it into the proper perspective in the grand scheme of things as we look forward to the future. Our ancestors here in the Smoky Mountains had a saying that allowed them to function during times of adverse weather, sickness and other difficulties they faced on a regular basis…”Make the least of what goes, and make the most of what comes.”

Dr.Henry Cloud states that “Everything has seasons and we have to be able to recognize when something’s time has passed and be able to move to the next season.” Recognizing that is such an important step for continuing on with our lives in a healthful way.

Letting go can also make room in our lives to grow in other areas of interest. It can be a time of renewal for our mind, body, and spirit. It can be a time to refocus on what is most important in our lives. “The Lord says, do not think about or dwell on the past. Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening.Don’t you see it? I will make a path in the desert and streams in dry land.” – Isaiah 43:18-20 (EXB).

Let go and let grow…May we let go of things that are keeping us from becoming what God wants us to be and take time to grow in areas of our lives that will help us to be our best for Him.