A Bronx Philosopher Autumn Reflection
Gather What Matters and Carry It Forward
The days are getting shorter now.
The squirrels seem to know it better than we do.
Everywhere I look they are searching, digging, carrying acorns in cheeks so full they look like tiny grocery bags. Some race from tree to tree. Others stand perfectly still, watching as I approach, as if deciding whether to trust me with the secret location of their winter stash.
I’ve walked these same paths for years.
Usually, my mind is somewhere else, racing ahead to the next task, scrolling through endless worries, or replaying yesterday’s conversations. But today, I stopped.
This autumn feels different.
Maybe the squirrels aren’t doing anything new.
Maybe I’m finally paying attention.
There is something comforting about watching them prepare for a season they know is coming. No panic. No debate. Just quiet, purposeful work. Gather what you need. Store what matters.
For us, the winter stash isn’t made of acorns. It’s the warmth of quiet evenings, shared laughter with old friends, warm cups of tea, and the gentle stillness we allow ourselves to feel.
Trust the future enough to prepare for it.
Perhaps autumn asks the same of us.
Not to rush.
Not to fear the colder days ahead.
Only to gather what matters and carry it forward.
