Castlerigg Stone Circle

Autumn is the season of remembrance. The shortening days and withdrawing of the earth’s energy remind us that nature’s annual cycle is coming to an end. The element associated with autumn is water and the tearfulness of mourning loss. It is entirely fitting that 11th November – armistice day – is when we remember those who were lost in conflict, and often we remember too those we have lost along the way. Autumn is also a season of blazing colours as the trees put on their final show, of fireworks, bonfires, pumpkins and dressing up. Halloween and All Souls Day are mindful of the cycle of death and rebirth, dark and light which underpins all our existence.

I had the great pleasure of meeting with fellow singers in Grasmere church last Saturday to sing Mozart’s Requiem. It is a piece of music which inspires us still as we acknowledge our own mortality.

Rather than feel depressed or melancholy about Autumn it is our challenge to embrace all aspects of life, including death, and live each day with joy and gratitude.