September: A New Season!

September: A New Season! by Jen Lawrence

 
At this time of year, I always get a hankering for a set of Mr. Sketch markers, a fleece-lined corduroy jacket, and Charlie’s Angels lunchbox. I love September!

As a child, there was something so hopeful about having a fresh new school year stretched out before me, promising new friends, new teachers, and new things to learn.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to capture that same feeling as an adult? Here are some ways to capture that back-to-school feeling even if it’s been years since you’ve set foot in the classroom.
 
·      Sign up for a class just for fun. There is nothing lovelier than walking to a class in the fall, cradling a latte – especially if you know you don’t have to worry about your grades! Why not sign up for a cooking, painting, or blogging class at your local community centre, college, or grocery store. Learning new things is what keeps us feeling young and connected to the world.

·      Sign up for a bible study. There is nothing more refreshing that immersing yourself in the Word. Most churches offer bible studies, which are a great way to deepen your relationship with God and meet new people. If work or family life keeps you too busy to join a group, there are some great bible studies offered online.

·      Set up a home office. Every home can use a command centre to keep a family calendar, organize forms, and pay bills, whether it’s in a dedicated home office or simply a corner in the kitchen. School supplies are well priced at this time of year so stock up on everything you need to help you get organized.

·      Take up a reading challenge. This year, aim to read a new book each month. I like to alternate between reading novels and reading a devotional or memoir. I’ve just started reading an advanced copy of KeriAnne Wood’s So Close to Amazing and it looks like it’s going to be great! [book link: https://www.tyndale.com/p/so-close-to-amazing/9781496422019]

·      Set a prayer challenge. While it’s wonderful to pray when the moment strikes us (often when we are in trouble!) building a regular prayer practice is a key part of a close relationship with God. Make a goal to set aside some dedicated prayer time each morning or evening for the entire month and watch a beautiful prayer habit take shape!

·      Volunteer your time. Social services agencies kick their programs back into high gear in the fall and many of them need your help. See if your church organizes a regular volunteer night or check out community websites for opportunities near you.

With a little effort and planning, you can inject new life into the new school year, even if your school days are long behind you.