Finding Joy in August

Here in Georgia we've had quite the heat wave this week. At this point in the summer, it's easy to feel summer fatigue and to long for cooler days. Oftentimes our landscapes are scorched by now, and we're praying for rain. Thankfully, August often brings the return of some cooler nights and mornings. The first tastes of autumn weather give us hope and relief. As kids go back to school and vacations wrap up, regular routines resume. Our college town buzzes with excitement when students return and football season begins.

In my mind, August marks the end of summer. The greenery begins to golden. The days get a little shorter. The baby animals of summer grow up. If you've followed a long for a while, you know how much I value my morning sunrise time. But August is one of my favorite times of year to sit and watch the sunrise. The mornings are cool again. The clouds from overnight rain bring lots of colors to the sky. Migrating birds pass overhead. The sun rises at the perfect time where it's not too early or too late.

It's easy to get caught up in the returned busyness of August and to complain about the heat waves. But just like every other month, there's so much beauty to be seen. Little joys are everywhere. Baby deer are growing up and frolicking with their families. So many flowers are still in bloom. Butterflies dance across wildflowers. The light is golden as summer comes to a close. I hope you pause for a moment each day to watch nature take it's course all around. God's creation has a way of providing perspective and peace. Don't miss it!