Fall Tilt

The autumnal equinox will take place this Wednesday, Sept. 22, at precisely 11:09 p.m. At that moment the tilt of the earth’s axis will be inclined neither away nor toward the sun. It is as if the planet will be suspended, the sun hovering directly above the equator, for just a moment before the seasonal change begins to roll in.

Here on the Island, however, the adjustment from summer to fall is already under way. If summer on the Island can be defined by the often-heard phrase, hurry up and work like hell, fall feels like an invitation to lie back and linger. The days have grown shorter and yet at the same time they seem longer, most likely due to the extra time available to enjoy them.

Routines and schedules are in fashion again. The kids are back in school, workloads lightened, (unless you are a teacher), and the possibility of everyone making it home in time for dinner much greater now. Paychecks may be smaller, but sunsets at the beach, nature walks and good old-fashioned porch sitting are still available free of charge.

Acorns seem to be everywhere on the ground. The squirrels are not yet at work collecting provisions to get them through the long Island winter. The fable of the ant and the grasshopper extols the virtues of planning ahead, but perhaps, at this moment, the squirrels know best. Although cooler air greets us each morning, it is wise to remember summer has just ended. There is no need to do anything quite yet. Far better to remain suspended for a while, like our planet, before tilting toward the next phase of life.