We found this lovely piece called "Sacraments linked to seasons" written by Lucy Balish, an 8th grade young lady who attends St. John Fisher School in Portland, OR.
We are excited to see someone so wise and thoughtful in her writing and her life at this age. For those who aren't familiar with the term sacraments here is the definition: a religious ceremony or act of the Christian Church that is regarded as an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual divine grace, in particular. We can't say anything better than she did so read on... and thank you Lucy, for letting us re-print this from the Catholic Sentinal.

Sacraments Linked to Seasons, by Lucy Balish

Ever since I moved out of my crib, I have been surrounded by the rituals of farm life and have learned the routine of each season. Over these years of growing in faith, I have found that the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church have a peculiar way of connecting to the seasons of the year.

For me, springtime is the beginning of a new year. The excitement of planting seeds, seeing sprouts, and watching flowers blossom motivates me to step outside and breathe in the fresh spring air. The start of spring is similar to Baptism because in both we are born again. Later in the spring, the cold changes to warmer weather.

Reconciliation parallels this because one is cold when they are separated from God but grow warmer as they become closer to him. During summer, I love to watch the fruit and vegetables grow, develop, and ripen with the warm sun on my back. This is similar to receiving Communion when we grow closer to God and feel his light upon our face. Confirmation is like the sunny, warm, and welcoming long days of summer that we savor. With this sacrament, we commit to our faith like the summer weather commits to the growth of crops.

In the fall, I look forward to raking the colorful leaves and harvesting the bounty of fruits, vegetables, and best of all, making apple cider. Whatever we harvest determines the fresh produce that we consume during the upcoming chilly months. This is like Matrimony and Holy Orders, which both determine the path your future will follow. In the winter, our creek freezes, frost is on the ground, and it feels as if the world is sleeping, waiting until spring to awaken. Fires with wood cut from our orchard keep us warm during the frigid dark days. Just as we must turn to fire to warm our bones, during the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, we must turn towards God and pray that he heals our bodies.

I know that few people have a way of life similar to mine involving chickens, quail, a bunny, and a dog, along with a vineyard, garden, creek, and orchard. I am very thankful for what I have and appreciate all the blessings I have received. Because I have grown up in this environment, I have the ability to grow in understanding and faith, and for this I am eternally grateful. I know that to whom much is given, much is expected. With my God-given gifts, I hope that I can make the world a better place.