I live in Missouri where we typically have four distinct seasons each year. We are in one of those changes of seasons now where many activities are shifting, the weather is altering, and change is in the air.

In our natural and spiritual lives we will also experience seasons. How we navigate these times can determine our future success. I sit now looking out the window of a lake home I have loved for the past twelve years. It has been called my “happy place,” has served as a get-away from work and life challenges, and a wonderful place to spend time with family.

While this place is full of great memories, it has been a season that is about to change. In just three days we will say goodbye to this place. I sat here this morning praying that the Lord would help me correctly process my emotions.

I was reminded of the Sunday afternoon that followed taking my first born son to college. I honestly thought I would choke to death that day before as I said those brave goodbyes in the dorm while my son was giving me the eye that let me know I better not break down in front of is new friends.

It was the next day as I lay across his bed in his old bedroom knowing he would never live under my roof again that I began to process the change of season. I didn’t want to live in sadness, so I let the tears flow while I remembered all the amazing memories we had made together so far in his life. I had to let go and treasure those moments to release him into his next.

Now as I look back 19 years later, I see the beauty in his next seasons. He has a successful clinical pharmacy career, a beautiful wife, and two amazing children. A reminder that life is full of seasons!

Goodbyes and last times can be challenging for our human emotions, but that famous verse found in Ecclesiastes says, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (3:1 NLT). Instead, we should try to focus on the new beginnings, on the firsts, and on the exciting next God has planned for us.

Sadly, many never experience God’s best for their lives because they are stuck in the past. Both past failures and past victories. We can’t live our lives too focused on the rear view mirror. When we use it appropriately, it provides us with some perception and caution, but our vision must be forward focused.

If you find yourself in a busy or difficult season in your life right now, don’t necessarily wish it away. You will never have this moment again. Stop and ask yourself, “What does God want me to do with this season?” He uses our best and worst times for a purpose…if we will just allow Him to. I pray God will bless you during your current season and help you to experience His best plan for your life!