Humans 101
Why Do Leaves Change Color?
A lesson from children about etiology, phenomenology, epistemology, and learning ethics from nature
Asking questions about autumn
The sun’s path appears to be bending south, adding a dull hue to summer’s bright skies. The last efforts at growth showcase the skills of plants not yet ready to die. Humidity vacates the air, replaced by a crisp breeze. Even the sun seems compelled to offer new ventures of color — bending light among increased clouds, resulting in vibrant displays of reds, oranges, and the occasional purple on the horizon at the end of a now-shortened day.
It is the one time of year those of us living in temperate climates take pride in our weather.
There is nothing quite comparable to the season called Autumn.
Outside the pumpkin spice craze, there’s nothing I would get rid of about this season. I’ve lived in climates that escape winter’s cold and, if I’m honest, my soul felt empty without Fall. The taste of a fresh Northern Spy apple picked in late October, the smell of a recently harvested field, and the increased attention we give to celebrating life as we sense the closing of a year and the onset of winter.
