As the rain gently falls and the leaves slowly spiral down, it sometimes feels like the world around me is dreary and dying. I like the feel of the raindrops against my skin as I run through the woods. Everything glistens and drips and the last of the fall colours still try to shine through. But autumn is the season of closure and with winter not far behind, it might seem like an endless downward spiral of dried up dreams and hopes. What keeps me going in those more dismal times are the glimmers I see around me of growth and colour: the smell of pine cones on my fingers, the last bunch of parsley in the garden, the greenness of mint against the crumpled leaves, the activity of birds and squirrels despite inclement weather. Maybe that’s what keeps me hanging on until another spring comes around.
Despite the troubles that I face, the pain I endure, the losses I suffer, as long as I have that little glimmer of hope, I feel that I can make it to a brighter day. Throughout history humans have lived through incredible odds. Sometimes faith, sometimes a relationship or even something in the natural world has sustained those living in the autumn of life. And somehow we know in our guts that the spring will come again as it has time and time again.
I’m reminded of a story told to me by a man who spent time in hiding during World War II. With the very real thought of life and death in front of him, his one solace was the bread that a village woman brought to his hiding place every day. That sustained him through a very tough period and maybe that’s why he is still alive today.
During a tough part of my life, when I lost my job and our family had no income, I discovered a strength within myself that I didn’t know I had. I also found that a community surrounded me. So today I want to be part of that community where we all feel each other’s pain and find a way to ease it.
Food has often played a part in that sharing of hope with others. We often cook and bake when others are sick or have lost a family member or are in transition. Sharing food is an intimate act that conveys our care and our hope. Making food for others can also energize the giver. So hope can grow as we share together.
Obviously, the slowing down of nature turns my thoughts inward. So enough philosophizing. Share your hopes with others. Here is an autumn dessert my mother made that provided a glimmer of good in my world. I hope it does in yours.
Apple Nut Pudding
1/2 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
2 eggs
1 c. brown sugar
2 t. vanilla
1 c. chopped walnuts
1 c. chopped apples
Mix flour, baking powder and salt. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs well, add sugar and beat with a mixer until creamy. Stir in the dry ingredients and mix. Add vanilla, nuts and apples. Pour this mixture into a well-greased 10 inch pie pan and bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until set. Serve warm with whipped cream. Serves six.
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