{"id":7079174,"date":"2026-10-07T11:41:23","date_gmt":"2026-10-07T11:41:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=7079174"},"modified":"2026-10-07T11:41:23","modified_gmt":"2026-10-07T11:41:23","slug":"how-to-write-a-seasonal-review-for-personal-reflection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=7079174","title":{"rendered":"How to Write a Seasonal Review for Personal Reflection \u2013"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n<\/p>\n

\n

The summer solstice arrives this week on June 21st, which means it\u2019s an opportune time to write a seasonal review. Within liturgical time, this week also remembers St. John the Baptist through Midsummer, a celebration of his birth and agricultural growth. Similar to the solstices and equinoxes, Midsummer is one of several holidays that act as guideposts through the church year. These dates mark natural or spiritual seasons and can serve us in our own personal reflection. <\/p>\n

The rotation of the natural seasons \u2014 winter, spring, summer, and autumn \u2014 compel us to adapt to changes in temperature, precipitation, and wind. Seasonal changes prompt us to do more than remember an umbrella; they can provide necessary nutrients so crops flourish or destroy homes in natural disasters. Both individual and communal wellbeing are at stake. As Mother Earth showcases her power, we are invited to pay attention. <\/p>\n

Similarly, the ever-evolving seasons of life and nature compel us to constantly adapt to change through experiences of pain or delight. Even in the smallest ways, we reorient ourselves to both controllable and unpredictable circumstances within our homes, relationships, work, and community. The invitation to notice these shifts remains.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n

What is a Seasonal Review?<\/h2>\n

A seasonal review recognizes the significance of paying attention. This practice targets a particular period of time and creates space to reflect on the events or emotions included there. By noticing these things, we cultivate a deeper awareness to the movements of our inner life and our posture towards self, others, and God. <\/p>\n

Practiced with care, intentional \u2018noticing\u2019 may result in feelings of centeredness and clarity. If challenging emotions arise, consider speaking with a therapist or spiritual director. <\/p>\n

If this practice sounds familiar, it is a practice rooted in the daily prayer of Examen<\/a>. This prayer invites us to pay attention to the day behind us, but can easily extend to different combinations of time. By increasing the quantity of time to examine, we can often get a much needed birds-eye-view. <\/p>\n

How to Write a Seasonal Review<\/h2>\n

Before you begin, set gentle perimeters for your review.<\/strong> What timeframe will you be paying attention to? (A few suggestions are listed below.) How long will you reflect? If it\u2019s helpful, determine a dedicated space in either your calendar or as your physical location to support your reflection. <\/p>\n

The content, length, and appearance of a seasonal review is a personal choice, though there are two foundational questions to ask: Where do I notice Love? Where do I notice fear? <\/strong>Answering these two questions may result in more questions, which you are encouraged to notice and respond to in a way that feels best to you. <\/p>\n

Review the season at hand by noticing your memories, either by natural recollection or through various records.<\/strong> This is where your gentle perimeters will be helpful. Be careful to notice when you\u2019ve become distracted and softly come back. A timer set for 15 minutes could be helpful. <\/p>\n