Word Play

I woke up this morning with the sleepy sky hidden behind closed blinds, a breath of crisp autumn air coming through the window. I rolled over, contemplating sneaking a few more winks, however, a word balloon played across my mind, one of those words I seldom use, or even ponder. It settled in my brain, the side of my brain that resists change, likes routines and embraces the sameness of life. I never DVR the make-over shows and I eat the same thing for breakfast every day. As I lay there, the word hugged my mind like a mother's warm touch, a super-soft baby's blanket. I went grocery shopping and noticed the gourds and multi-colored pumpkins on display. Autumn has arrived. The trees outside are peeking out of their dressing rooms, eager to show off their new clothes, teasing us with previews of vibrant hues tinting their leaves. The days are shorter, school buses make their daily stops and new television shows vie for mass audiences. Recently, I came across a quote by Jo Petty. "Take with you words, strong words of courage: words that have wings!...Tall words, words that reach up, and growing words, with deep life within them." Today, my word is transition. It is the word that gives me permission, alleviates my fear, and allows me to step out of the dressing room, confidently adorned in its powerful message. And like all words that have wings, I believe this one carries with it the ability to fly.