Lockport Union-Sun & Journal — Can it really be the end of August? Where did the month go? It seems that only yesterday it was time to “seize the summer,” and immerse ourselves in the glory and warmth of a wonderful season. Can it really be that we have already reached the days when we will transition into fall?

I am amazed at the number of red and yellow leaves that are already on display among the trees that line the canal and Thruway. (I’m even a little annoyed at the number of yellow leaves I’ve already had to skim out of our pool!) Is it just me, or is fall trying to come a bit early this year? While we technically have almost another month of summer, there is something about this Labor Day weekend that symbolizes the end of the summer season.

It is appropriate that we, as citizens of these United States take time — in some way shape or form, to acknowledge the contributions of the workers of this great nation. According the U.S. Department of Labor:

“Labor Day ... is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers ... The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker”.

Along with Labor Day weekend, there is also something about the approaching first day of school that helps to signal the transitional end of summer.

If you have school-aged children or grandchildren in your life, you’ve been in the “back to school” mode for the last month. Maybe this will be your first year of waving good-bye to your child on a school bus, (which is a major life transition.) If you are like me, you have already helped pack up your college students, and said an emotional good-bye for the start of the fall semester.

Maybe you helped them set up their new home in a college dorm or apartment off campus. Maybe you tried to help them get everything they will need to help this transition from life under your roof to life on their own. Have you taken time to help yourself to make the transition?

Whether we are saying good-bye to a student, saying hello to a new job, transitioning from college life to career life, work life to retirement, single life to married life, or vice versa — life transitions are real, and we need to take time to acknowledge them in order to be emotionally healthy.

Life transitions affect our daily routines, our moods, and our life patterns. Our social circles and our regular conversations may change dramatically. Even something as simple as setting one less plate at the table, or having one less occupied room in the home may affect us emotionally — even if it’s only for a few hours at a time.

I encourage you to make time to help yourself transition. Don’t deny the realities of change. Consider adding some positive alterations to your life to help you make these transitions more smoothly — a renewed faith, a new class, club or life goal will help you to embrace the next season of life with hope.

Jackie Davis is an Inspirational Vocalist, Musician and Speaker with over twenty years of television broadcast experience. You can contact her at jjd.22344@yahoo.com