There is a sweetness in the air and the lengthening of shadows as this season of reflection unfolds, gifting us with the rich, organic energy of settling into quieter spaces. Autumn calls for the honoring of all fulcrum moments, in a heartbeat acknowledging what has passed and subtly anticipating all that is yet to come; we have the option to choose radical acceptance every day.

A celebration of letting go is happening all around us. Leaves float to the ground, effortless and free in the breeze—a dance of trust and surrender to the lightness of being. Flashing brilliant colors and unique patterns, they nod to the cycle of life and the heights from which they fall on their way to further enriching the ground below.

We are all on our way within this great cycle of beautiful navigations, through which our diverse soul signatures play out—all masterpiece trails of growth and healing. As the decades add up, creating the span of a lifetime, we weave memories and stories into the depth, exploring meaning, purpose, maturity and even legacy.

This month’s edition centers on the theme of Grateful Aging, highlighting the vitality that comes with intentional wellness and the freedom found in committing to greater authenticity. Savoring the present moment is an art that flourishes only through the release of burdensome beliefs, attachments and ideas, while blessing the learned, lived experience of true liberation.

Contributors in the following pages explore how deep knowing comes through diligently looking back, carefully and compassionately integrating a clearer understanding of the past. One might consider how connections, patterns and paths often carve out silver linings, and how the brilliance in these angles and wider perspectives offers heart-centered discernment that honors forgiveness and flow over resistance, as well as the sovereignty of self-respect.

Dignity comes readily to those that embrace the challenges that have strengthened their time on Earth and the gifts gained through passing along timeless, transcendent treasures of meditation, serenity, faith and joy. We look back so that we can move forward with the grace and humility that defines what it means to live well, adding to the collective and boosting the consciousness of our shared humanity.

We value the many openings for growth that life presents, and are so grateful for the opportunity to continue this journey with you, through these pages. Please join us this month in celebrating our 12th year of publishing, marking a milestone for our Lancaster-Berks magazine, which continues to carry our mission of supporting the well-being and health of our community in the most holistic, empowering and inclusive ways.

So as the year winds down, we take time this month to honor our ancestors and all that they have given us, along with the elders that are among us. We invite you to never forget the connections we all share and the priceless wisdom in your years.

Namaste~

Jacqueline Mast and Kendra Campbell, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors