Opinion

Overcoming the challenges of Autumn

The autumn season brings its own challenges for Ruth Lilley, and she explains how she meets those challenges with a positive outlook.

Every September I say to myself, ‘It feels like this because it is September - soon it will be October and then it will be better!’ Really, though, I love this time of year - the colours of Autumn, the chill as the evenings draw in and the opportunity to snuggle under a blanket!  So, what is it about September that I find so overwhelming?
 
Over the summer holiday my mind has slowed down and there has been time to relax. Then, even though there is the imprint of previous years, it feels somewhat surprising as I step into September that, suddenly, life feels extremely full!
 
The first half term back at school is busy with building new relationships, establishing routines, setting expectations, training, planning and preparing. Now that it is October, investing in all the hard work has been worth it. Even with all the challenges that September brings, I would not change it, as the reward from teaching far outweighs any cost. Each day, it is a privilege to be able to show value and encouragement to the children who cross my path.
 
It is not always that case that hard work in difficult situations brings a reward so soon. There are times when the journey can feel so tough and for such a long time. My mind has learnt that September will be tricky, so I am able to cheer my self on with the promise of a brighter day. I find it less easy to do this when the challenging times seem to continue endlessly.
 
However, if I take encouragement from Paul’s words to the Galatians, I am able to remind myself that each tricky step is worth it and is for a purpose:
“So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all…" Ephesians 6:9-10 (The Message).
 
Sometimes, however, it is easy to lose sight of the purpose. When my mind is full of pain and feelings of negativity, it is a battle to free my thoughts and outlook. Yet, if I dig into God’s Word, I soon find hope. It doesn’t feel easy to do this and it takes patience and repetition – just as the days of September did!
 
There are days when the first words I speak to myself are that it would be easier to stay in bed. It is then that I must fight back with courage and a louder voice that reminds me that the spirit within me is one of power, love and self-discipline. So, I will choose to press on and listen to the louder voice that brings hope. I will be motivated by love and the certain promise of a brighter day.

Ruth Lilley teaches at an infant school in Norwich. She also enjoys writing, and writes a regular blog called ‘With Every Sun Comes A New Day.’

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