Play is Done. Back to Work

Okay. I know the first question on everyone's lips is; "Is Dave still alive?" Well, let me tell you YES! Looking out my office window I notice that trees are changing colors quite rapidly all of a sudden. Of course I should have known it was time because my beloved Detroit Lions played last Sunday and football season always signals the seasonal change.
I hope you all had a wonderful summer. My wife and I enjoyed a few days at the beach as well as a weekend with some of our great friends at our friends home on Hess Lake. We also gained a son in law this last June. Life has been quite an adventure for us in so many ways this year.
Unfortunately some things are not changing. There is still a lot of unemployment and uncertainty in our area with no relief in sight. I think all of us are feeling some discomfort in one way or another.
I am trying to take the example of a small tree in my backyard as an example for life. Each year this tree has the most beautiful, dark red leaves that change to a dirty reddish brown about this time of year. Then they begin to fall off leaving the tree looking forlorn and lonely. It stays in that state for a few months until warmer weather and nuturing rain bring it's dark red foilage, once again to full bloom. But the tree is different each new spring. It has grown taller and stronger with each passing year. Like clockwork it sheds it's dismal look to dress itself in healthy splendor. I need to look at life like that. We all do.
Times are tough. No doubt about it. But we have to believe that we can return taller and stronger. I know I can always use some more height.