Most change leads to a new beginning. That’s what they say anyway. It’s been a challenging time this past year, and here we are with autumn on our doorstep, bringing with it who knows what?

We’ve slogged our way through the pandemic with its isolation and deprivation, an incomparably divisive political climate, and who knows whether or not the worst is yet to come?

But as we bid farewell to summer, some are looking forward with hope in their hearts while others harbor fear and trepidation. It isn’t difficult to understand either side of it. Both the COVID-19 crisis and the political prospects could go either way. Ultimately, it’s up to us to affect the outcomes of these issues.

We have expert guidance on how to control the spread of the virus, and hopefully more people will be taking the vaccine in the weeks and months ahead. We know how to keep ourselves and others as safe as possible, even though fatigue from such measures is strong. All one has to do, however, is consider the alternative.

Taking a break from it all by getting out on the road to do a little old fashioned New England leaf peeping can do wonders for the spirit and recharge the weary. After all, we live in a part of the world where the colors of autumn are breathtaking. Let’s not forget that.

A change of season can represent a moving forward, taking the next step and shaking off the troubles of the past. It’s also a reminder that we are all children of nature and should take stock in the beauty and wonder of life itself. Again, consider the alternative.