I want to be a tree in Autumn. They amaze me with their ability to completely transform themselves. They change color, flaunt the riches of the season and then painlessly let go of it all.

As people we do much the same. Sometimes we change our colors, for fashion, convention or convenience. We certainly like to flaunt our riches both monetary and possessions. But most of us stumble on that last part: letting our "leaves" fall easily and without complaint.

A tree with leaves in the winter would break with snow on all that dead weight. Leaves will lose their color and become dull. A bare tree has a different kind of beauty. And only a bare branch can get ready for new buds. Yes -- I want to be like a tree in Autumn.

"Every day begins with some expectation but every day ends with some experience..."

It's autumn so of course it's all about pumpkins, leaves and colder air. I work outdoors and this time of year abounds in beautiful sights, sounds and smells. I spent a lot of time looking up today -- at trees starting to turn, a pair of cranes flying the sun coming out. And then, I looked down.

There I saw a mushroom in the sunlight among the pine needles. It was simple. It was plain. It was perfect.

I was glad I happened to look down. Away from all the flashy expected moments of an autumn day. This was a better moment. Unexpected. Quieter. More my style. The best experience of the day.

While grocery shopping today I realized I haven't evolved all that much. I'm still a hunter-gatherer. The venue has changed, but my instincts remain strong.

My eyes constantly scan the horizon for the dangers of wild carts. I ruthlessly hunt for the lowest price per ounce, pluck the ripest produce and tuck away hunks of meat. I will not be beaten to the checkout line. The hungry will be fed in my family.

Okay, maybe I got a bit carried away. But it sure made today's shopping trip more fun visualizing everyone in a Neanderthal light. I hope I didn't snarl on the way out of the store!

When you say "Let it go" people have different reactions: "OK", "Never", or they break into song like my 6-year-old granddaughter. But there is power in letting go.

Anger, disappointment, sadness -- those are easier to let go of. The point is clear. That stuff is bad for you. Get rid of it. But living also demands you let go of positive things. Your children. Your Youth. And for some, memory, health and happiness. But moving something out means space to move something else in. Not, perhaps, what you had before but actually what you need for the right now.

So like the milkweed I was admiring the other day, that opens up and lets those beautiful seeds fly, Let It Go.