Time to View the Changing Leaves

Each October, we make a point of a weekend trip to view the changing leaves. We marvel at the red, yellow and ochre brush strokes on the Appalachian hillsides.  Inevitably we debate whether or trip was too early for peak or too late to view the height of color. What a metaphor for our lives, not knowing if the crescendo of our lives lies before or after we take notice.

Talk of retirement and aging in place are common conversations among our friends.  These discussions make me feel like the peak has passed and we are just waiting for the leaves to fall. But then I remember the trajectory of my life, adding career upon career, and an evolving world view that feels more mature and holy. Perhaps the peak colors of my life are on the horizon.

My Hebrew name, Abraham, reminds me that I am the namesake of our first father. Abraham left his home in Ur and travelled to Canaan while in his 80s.  His children arrived while in his 90s.  And he added a few more when he was well past 100.  Now I am not advocating for centenarian fatherhood.  I am noticing that when God promised him the legacy of a nation of descendants, Abraham argued that the possibility of fatherhood was behind him.

Torah teaches that we should not bury possibility. Rather, we are to have faith in the opportunities to create and experience new worlds. Faith is not a sit on your tuchas concept in Judaism. Faith is proactive.  Faith is hiking a trail to see the next vista.  Faith is taking the next step even if you feel tired.  Faith is the path of possibility and self-actualization.

When is the right time of year to view the colorful leaves? The right time of year to view the leaves is whatever day you drive your life to the forest and hike those trails. Whatever the colors, if you hike long enough, you may find the colors you seek. And have faith, that the leaves will emerge green again.

Rabbi Evan J. Krame