By Ann Beck 

Here in central Illinois, we are all too aware of the corn and soybeans drying in the sun and awaiting the combines to come and orderly harvest the fields for sale or storage. Illinois is one of the top producers of both corn and soybeans, so there is a direct impact of crop production upon our local economy. 

I was thinking about fall being the time of harvesting our own personal “crops” or endeavors. Usually, we take time to reflect upon our year after the holidays and as we consider the new calendar year. But what if we took time now, in autumn, to consider our harvest?

We can bring our attention and reflection upon what we have planted and harvested. Were we thoughtful about our goals and intentions? What has worked out well, what has not? Did we reap what we have sown?

What can we do now to ensure a more productive harvest for next season? How can we take time and be present in the plans that we have instead of just responding to situations or flying by the seat of our pants. How do we take the time to truly take a moment and consider our actions, reactions, and the consequences of those?