The Four Seasons of Life

A poem by Donna Hostetter:

SPRING is when we are in the beginning. Just like a flower that springs through the ground after the seed is planted, we are born. It is nourished and cultivated to maturity, just as we are. And, while in full bloom, it is the admiration of many. This is our childhood, our youth, our coming into independent adulthood!

SUMMER is our busy time – the fullest time of our lives. We are busy with activities, gardening, household cleaning, remodeling or redecorating, landscaping – the extra chores that just naturally fall into the summer season. And, we wonder “when will it ever end!” It does end - all too soon - as the children grow up and leave home!

AUTUMN arrives and the hustle-bustle of the busy summer season ends. It’s the season when we enter the retirement age - all the excitement, the work, the family activities, gently fall off of the busy schedules, like the leaves fall from the trees. The “nest” is empty - the all too quietness of the “when will it ever end” arrives!

WINTER with its snow flakes gently falling to the ground and covering it with such beauty – whiteness - is like the last season for us as we prepare to gently fall into God’s presence and are covered with the whiteness – purity – of His Heavenly Face! This is truly when we are “Homeward Bound into God’s Place!”

So, don’t rush your “Spring” – it already goes too fast!

And, don’t complain of “Summer” – you’ll cherish those days past!

But, accept your “Autumn” – as this is God’s plan so dear!

Welcome in your “Winter” – for this is why you are here!

Donna Hostetter – February 8, 2008