Hello!
Here we are in November, and I wonder if, like me, you find it a rather flat, uninspiring month. The vibrant colours of autumn have faded, the trees are bare, and the days are growing shorter and darker. The magic of December hasn't quite arrived, although you may already be subjected to endless loops of annoying Christmas carols in shopping malls!
For those of us facing November's shorter, darker days, it can feel like a month without much light, colour, or sparkle. That's precisely why we need to create some of our own, rather than retreating into our pyjamas for endless binge-watching marathons (tempting as that may be!).
Joy, awe, and beauty won't necessarily come knocking at our door. Sometimes, we have to go looking for them, or better yet, create opportunities to experience them.
Think about the things that lift your spirits: live music, poetry readings, theatre, art exhibitions, spiritual gatherings, enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones, or simply meeting a friend for hot chocolate and a leisurely chat. Sometimes, all it takes is getting out the door to brighten our mood and remind us of the wonderful things happening around us.
There's also something exciting about discovering something new, whether it's a musician, an art exhibition, or a performance outside your comfort zone. Sometimes, the most unexpected experiences turn out to be the most memorable.
Be intentional. At the beginning of this month, Ben and I sat down with our calendars and explored what was happening in our small town. It didn't take long to find a few things that intrigued us: a play, the Firelight Lantern Festival, live music where we know lots of dancing will happen, and a special dinner at our favourite winery. Suddenly, November was looking a little brighter!
Why not explore what's happening in your own community? Check out what's playing at your local cinema or theatre. See what your library, art galleries, community centres, or local churches are offering. You might be surprised by how much is happening right on your doorstep. Watching your spending? With a little research, you'll likely find plenty of affordable or free activities to enjoy.
Don't wait for someone else to make the first move. Invite a friend to lunch, suggest an experience you would both enjoy, or venture out on your own. Having something to look forward to on the calendar can be just the encouragement we need to get out the door, even when the couch is calling.
Of course, we don't have to fill our calendars to find joy. Nature offers its own simple pleasures, even at this time of year. Bundle up, step outside, and feel the cool, crisp air against your skin. Take a walk and notice what the birds are up to. Which ones have flown south? Which ones are staying for the winter?
We're fortunate to have a few blue jays and cardinals that visit our trees year-round. We don't see them as often in November, but when one appears, it always brings me a little joy. I find myself looking for them, especially now that the trees are bare and their beautiful colours are easier to spot.
Have you noticed how beautifully moody November's skies can be? The layers of grey clouds, the silhouettes of bare trees, and the soft light remind me of old black-and-white photographs. There's something dramatic and beautiful about them. November may lack October's brilliant colours, but it has a quiet beauty and atmosphere all its own. Sometimes, we just need to pause to notice it.
Do I plan on enjoying a few moments in my pyjamas, curled up on the couch binge-watching a favourite show? Absolutely! But I don't want that to become my default. There's a balance between the comfort of staying home and the joy of getting out and experiencing life.
November may not offer us the same natural sparkle as other months, but that doesn't mean it can't be filled with joy, awe, and beauty. Think of it as a month to explore, discover, connect, and experience. Sometimes, a little effort and a change of perspective are all it takes to find something beautiful in what initially seems rather ordinary.
What are you looking forward to this November? I'd love to hear how you plan to brighten the month. Share your ideas in the comments below!
Anita
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