The Great Letting Go

Preparing for winter, the trees release –– your kaleidoscope awaits

Orpheus, by Odilon Redon (c. 1903)

Every time I am in the woods in the fall, which is as often as possible, I try not to miss a thing. I sweep the forest floor constantly with my eyes. I note freshly fallen pine needles and sense the embrace of sweeping rhododendrons. I watch a furry caterpillar. Then I remind myself: look up.

Tipping my face skyward, I …