Dahlias arrive right as summer meet's fall. A time of transition, a time of finding new rhythms, and nature's time of letting go.

I smiled while painting these dahlias. I also had some tears. I feel grief and joy with the passing of time.

I ask myself, “What is it to feel joy despite the real or anticipated loss of everything you love?”

Tara Brach says, "True joy includes all the joys and sorrows--a vast awareness and heart space that can include it all."

I call this piece "Joy Anyway" that this burst of color at the end of summer might be a reminder of all that is beautiful and possible no matter the appearance.

A blessing for the end of September

May you be gentle with whatever is unfolding in life. 
May you trust in the passage of time, the movement of seasons.
May you find a space in your heart and life, in this time of transition, to experience joy--anyway.