Just as their are annual seasons in nature, there are seasons in our lives. I think that the annual cycle of seasons can remind us of the temporal nature of our existence here on earth and can inform us symbolically about the nature of that existence. It also suggests that there is an eternal existence because of the fact that each season gives birth to another and there is a repetition of the complete cycle of seasons. It is interesting that so many different cultures celebrate gratitude for nature's sustaining bounty, reflect on the activity of the past year, express hope in the next year and remember the dearly departed at this time of year. The kindling of fires and the lighting of candles/lamps is such a perfect expression of hope and a act of faith that the darkness of night and fall/winter give way to the light of day and spring/summer. May we all be blessed by the wisdom to embrace every season and learn from them.