The grain stands ready for the combine, but the grey skies
are full of moisture today. Where did that old sun go? As the trees begin to
change colour, we are truly in transition mode.
Back to school weeks across Scotland mean excited wee folk,
slightly scared, putting on their uniforms and heading off for P1. Even
smaller, even more excited wee folk prepare for that first morning or afternoon
at play group or nursery, and for them, there could be tears and tantrums at
partings. So hard, transitions.
Teachers returning to work, after a summer of well-earned
rest or headed back after maternity leave. A new regime, new stresses, new
pressures. So hard, transitions.
I can remember after a three-month summer in the California
sun, where my feet never wore anything more substantial than a t-strap sandal,
to suddenly have to put on those new school shoes. My mother had a phobia of
foot problems so we wore what they call in America ‘saddle shoes’, which my
sister and I loathed. Lace-up shoes, sometimes two-toned, needing a polish
every week and looking so clunky next to friends’ shoes which might have
buckles and bows. So hard, the pinching shoes, transitions.
Other changes all around. Folk retiring. Folk starting new
jobs. Folk being made redundant. New marriages. Bereavements. So hard, transitions.
God is the only one who never changes. Jesus Christ is the
same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is our rock and our refuge. Especially
in the tough transitions.
