The Soul of Treasured Memories
Published 5:00 am Wednesday, October 7, 2026
The bright, brisk days of autumn stir those of us who love the outdoors. The other three seasons are good, but autumn lingers in your heart and mind. Cooler temperatures refresh body and soul. The landscape is awash with colors of changing leaves. Sunsets are coppery. Something deep within us yearns to be out there soaking in its many wonders.
Migrating geese fly across the autumn skies belting out calls of reassurance to one another. The chorus of honks fills the air softly, then loudly, then fades away. A new group of geese takes up the call and passes too.
Some folks are called by the water of autumn. Most any water will do for an overnight on a gravel bar or campground away from the craziness of their daily lives. The trees usually are a kaleidoscope of color reflecting in the water.
With the cooler water, fish life takes on new vigor. They know it’s time to put on a layer of winter fat. Some will wade and enjoy casting a fly to a rising trout. Some will be in a boat casting a lure to a bass, walleye, or crappie. Some will paddle around in a canoe or kayak fishing or not. All will take time to slow down and glory in the return of autumn.
A colorful autumn camping trip is magic. Late night, hunkered close to the campfire, holds an attraction that’s hard to match. Owls talk of their plans for the evening. Stars twinkle in the night sky. The flames dance and flicker. Campers shift their cold side to the fire and ponder their place in the world. Days are filled with fishing, hiking, exploring, or just relaxing.
Hikers also enjoy autumn. To most, it is by far the best time to hike. The cooler air refreshes them as they climb the winding trails. When they reach the top, they are rewarded with a view like a colorful patchwork quilt laid out below. They take photos and videos to share with others and enjoy themselves. It is one of those times you never forget.
For hunters, the autumn season is the most important time of the year. Field and forest beckon. Dogs wiggle and squirm, excited about a day’s hunt. Upland hunters yearn to see a pheasant or grouse flush. Deer hunters dream of trophy racks or roast venison. Waterfowl hunters get excited just thinking about ducks coming into their calls. This is the season they live for.
Those living in rural communities, small cities, and suburbs but aren’t necessarily outdoor folks enjoy this special season too. Autumn smells are everywhere. Apple cider, burning leaves, the singed pumpkin smell from a jack-o’-lantern plug, and wood smoke from chimneys and firepits all drift through the air.
The sounds of autumn are distinct. Crickets sing their song of summer’s ending. Crisp dead leaves cover the ground and swish and crunch underfoot. Squirrels chatter and raise a leafy rattle as they scurry around looking for acorns to bury and try to find again as autumn fades into winter.
We all have the freedom to believe what we want. Personally, I believe God created the outdoors and all of nature for us to enjoy and take care of. The pleasures of autumn and all it offers. It is the soul of treasured memories.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
“When we see the changes of day and night, the sun, the moon, and the stars in the sky, and the changing seasons upon the earth, anyone must realize that it is the work of someone more powerful than man.”
– Sioux Chief Chased by Bears
Nixa, MO native Larry Whiteley has been communicating the great outdoors across America for over 45 years through newspapers, magazines, books, blogs, television and a nationally syndicated radio show. Read more of his award-winning stories at www.storiesbylarry.com. Email him at larrywhiteley2@gmail.com.
