The season of autumn is the emphasis of this article, and to reinforce the idea of offering thanks to the continual process of letting go and receiving life… and the challenges we face. There are moments, months and years when we ask ourselves, “what is the point of going through this? What is the point of this particular painful event?” The answer can sometimes take years to show itself. The growth we harvest from these events can be life changing as we evolve into more understanding, compassionate people, not only toward everyone around us, but toward ourselves. The ability to show ourselves acceptance and compassion helps each of us to understand that we are much like an aspen grove, completely connected.

 

The change of seasons presents an excellent opportunity for self reflection, introspection, and renewal. The Five Element Theory of Chinese Medicine associates all energy and substance to five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each element corresponds to particular organs, emotions and seasons. Autumn is characterized by the Metal element.

 

Functionally, Metal corresponds to the Lung and Large Intestine. For survival, both organs need to receive and eliminate properly. The emotional process of receiving and eliminating are not necessarily easy practices. Generally, we are a society of “do it yourself-ers” and we also have the desire to hold on. We collect mementos, clothing, pictures, and we hold onto relationships, pain, ideas and values that may not be serving us anymore. The lesson of autumn and the Metal element is that of trusting that letting go of what no longer serves a purpose will bring us what we need to receive. The challenge may be having faith that we always receive exactly what we need, recognizing it, and expressing our deepest gratitude for these gifts.

 

One activity that corresponds nicely to this season is cleaning out our physical spaces. As we go through our homes and offices getting rid of accumulated “stuff” that no longer serves a purpose, it allows us time to think about what we value materially and spiritually. What is no longer valuable to us may be absolutely essential to another. This time then provides a moment to give to others in need, while also providing an opportunity to give thanks and appreciation for what we have, and space to receive what is truly essential.