November is quiet suspense. A sense of mystery creeps in as we prepare for the unknown. Sounds of critters scurrying to get ready for Winter fill the crisp air. My cats are growing their winter fur coats. What do they know that I don’t? Acorns are fatter this year. How can something the size of my thumbnail be smarter than me? We have lost our way in syncing with nature’s rhythms, everything available year-round. But November reminds us there is a time and purpose for gathering, gratitude, and turning inward. What will we need in the next few months? It is hard to guess. But we are tucking in gardens, setting out seeds for the birds, and getting out long sleeves, our equivalent of fur, from the closets. The sharp edges of cold weather outside feel delicious against the warmth of returning home, wherever that may be in this time of displacement for many. We are in the midst of a long hibernation with the approach of the hibernating season. It is disconcerting for us, this not knowing. But the animals and plants know what to do. Looking out at nature in November, I draw in a deep breath, filling my heart with patience and gratitude for what is present.