For the month of November, the theme for the stories to be shared is ‘Holding On and Letting Go’.
I am always amazed by this time of year, the blissful way in which trees let go of their clothing; with such grace and ease. I had never perceived trees to be one for clinging onto the present, for their leaves seem to simply fall to the ground without drama or fanfare. However, this year I noticed something different. It’s now November and many of the trees in my neighbourhood still have most of their leaves. I remember in years gone by, that would not be the case. Come November, it would feel like we were in the midst of Winter, with hardly any leaves in sight. Today, that feels very different. The leaves appear to be clinging to their home, not wanting to let go of what is.
Perhaps its all in my imagination and it’s simply me, projecting onto mother nature my own fears and insecurities around letting go.
Regardless of whether the leaves are holding on or letting go, this time of year is indeed an invitation to let go. The year is gradually coming to an end and regardless of how hard we cling, we have no choice but to let go. This is a theme that I have revisited over and over; navigating that delicate balance between holding on and letting go.
In my own life, stories on this theme range from – holding onto friendships that were no longer serving, holding onto jobs that were no longer fulfilling, letting go of possible relationships before they fully blossomed, letting go of family members where non acceptance appeared to be the order of the day; this list is endless and its an area that I revisit time and time again.
So, what are your stories of ‘holding on and/or letting go’. When you look back, where have you held on? Where have you let go? Or perhaps, you were the one that was held onto or the one who was let go of? What lessons or insights can you share with the clan? What particular experience or tale on this theme stands out for you? All stories are welcome.
What’s your story? To share it, send your email to outtales@yahoo.com.