The annual mess of autumn leaves in my yard sparked something I had never considered before: the leaves fall because their work is done.

Curious, I researched and learned that leaves fall off to protect the tree. No longer converting sunlight into energy, the dry leaves put the tree at risk for disease and broken limbs. This lifeless foliage falls away in preparation for new growth yet to come. The very things that fed the tree must now fall off for it to survive.

But these fallen leaves serve a secondary purpose. They release essential nutrients that nourish the tree roots as the leaves decay into the soil. This happens when the trees are most vulnerable and cannot generate their own energy. This life-sustaining process is not visible. Likewise, the reason we need to release things (or people) isn’t always apparent. Nevertheless, it is still necessary that we drop dead things so we can thrive.

Our frustrations often stem from holding on to lifeless things. We unknowingly invite disorder and unease by clinging to things that drain us instead of sustaining us. Learning how to let go is vital for our growth. God may prompt us to explore new opportunities or relationships. Doing this may also require us to make room for them.

Unfortunately, dead relationships, habits, and influences rarely fall away. We must choose to release them. Even then, they can stubbornly hang on. Yet our faithful Father eventually sends turbulent weather to shake them off—just as He does for the trees. Every adversity is not an attack. Our storms clear the way for new things to grow.

Take stock of what is dead. Is there anything that stinks? Forget your guilt, regret, would haves, and should haves. Let go of fruitless habits. Make room and look forward to new opportunities. We have far more to be grateful for than God ever asks us to lose. Trust God and let it go.