They began appearing a couple of weeks ago. First, there was a big one, then three small ones, and another big one. Three more small ones showed up this past weekend and were artfully arranged on the front steps next to their larger cousins. The mysterious Great Pumpkin Giver was once again on the prowl! We honestly have no idea where the pumpkins came from. Our neighbors to the north have received a couple, too, so it’s probably not them. We may never know who the generous pumpkin lover is, but their antics are a lot of fun, and express the spirit of the season.
Living in an agricultural area, as we do, harvest is as much a literal event as it is a metaphorical one. And it no doubt means different things to different people, from the family farms that are large corporate operations, to the small organic farms that serve the local community, to the back yard gardeners who plant an extra row of vegetables to share with a nearby food bank or soup kitchen. Ideally, gratitude would figure largely into all of our harvest related activities, whoever and wherever we are—gratitude for what we’ve received and “grown” this year, gratitude that results in celebration and sharing. After all, Harvest, Halloween, or Samhain, whatever you happen to call it, is the beginning of a couple of months full of holidays that focus on abundance, giving, and personal reflection.
In the midst of Halloween parties, trick-or-treating, Harvest celebrations, and Samhain activities, may we take a moment to recognize the seasonal changes taking place in nature and in our lives, and to set the intention, in the months ahead, to frequently reflect, be grateful, and celebrate with a giving spirit.
Secret pumpkin gifting is optional.
The Renovating Reverend 
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