Contemplative Inquiry

Classically, the dog days were the hottest, most humid and uncomfortable weeks of summer, typically running from 3 July to 11 August. This year, we had this experience on steroids, bursting its date boundaries at both ends. Fortunately, some of this period at least featured low humidity. 

But now I’m experiencing a different time. I feel refreshed and alive. Where I live, we have moved into an extended moment of lower temperatures and modest rainfall. The pictures above and below were taken between 7.01 and 7.21 am on 20 August. They show what I would traditionally expect, a late summer day with autumnal features. I now feel at home in a habitat that has space for soft sunlight, water in motion and green growth. Blessings no longer to be taken for granted, and therefore more fully enjoyed.

It is also true that the woods, overall, have an altered seasonal look. We have moved into a time of fruit bearing. Colours other than green achieve prominence, as the daylight decreases. Trees shed their leaves, though there is a long way to go in this process.

I like the way that I can still feel held within a canopy on the path, or see powerful reflections where the canal meets the trees. These are small and simple spaces, which can, with the right gaze, seem magical. Today’s walk has had an undoubtedly healing effect.