It seems to me the leaves are changing colors earlier this year. Probably just my imagination, but I think the early September chill has activated the sequence like the crank in the game of Mouse Trap. That sequence of gorgeous colors, followed by falling leaves, (usually expedited by a hard cold rain) then the laborious clean-up signals the end of the tree growing season. The grass will go dormant and usually turns brown. The trees will look barren and stoic like a department store manikin without clothing. Then along about March or April when the buds begin to appear along the tree branches a fascinating reveal takes place. The trees have grown. With older trees you must really observe closely to notice, but on a younger tree it is very obvious. I marvel and wonder how that growth took place through the dead of winter. But it does. The tree just kept growing despite the elements.
I recently took on a new job. I’m one of the youngest members of the team. And obviously the least experienced. What a golden opportunity to learn and grow and develop. I’ve been introduced to a number of team members who have been in their roles any where from a year to 26 years. Each one of them brings different perspective, unique background and special knowledge. They possess unbelievable business and life experiences as well. Their personalities are as colorful as an October maple tree. Now it is up to me to listen and be educated. Not only for my role on the team, but for what each have garnered on their respective life paths.
As a new member of the team, I feel like that tree in December, void of leaves and lacking in value. But if I quietly listen, I’m optimistic, come spring, I will be budding with new knowledge for the job and more importantly new tips for life that will allow me to continue to grow.
Don’t ever stop growing…..