I have taken up some old hobbies I used to do when I first moved to New York City: walking while taking photographs. I think walking is one of the most relaxing, meditative things you can do.

Contrary to Yogi or Buddhist philosophies, I feel like, when I sit still and meditate, I am stagnant in my life and in my thoughts. Perhaps this is a discipline I have not yet achieved. However, for me, walking is way more effective. It is like writing, it shifts my thoughts, progresses them forward towards action, then initiates the transformation of these thoughts into becoming reality. It is these moments that I love to capture in photographs. A site or landmark will trigger positive thoughts of action or will inspire feelings of hope, happiness, or spiritual fulfillment.

This autumn, I have been reflecting on how everything changes, sometimes quickly, sometimes gradually. Like most people, I am afraid of change and do not always want to embrace it. Today, I am wondering what will happen if I do. Can I revel in the reality of change by allowing the beautiful colors of the leaves this fall to be a visual reflection of how I will never be alone in dealing with what I deem as positive or negative changes in my life? As the leaves fall, the moments pass, my life keeps moving forward on the journey into the future, closer and closer to my blissful destination. Yet, I am still paralyzed with fear. Time for a walk…

Marisol Tirelli Rivera