Earlier this evening I looked out the window and saw the sky had become overcast and darker, and I wondered whether it might rain. A few minutes later it did start raining, quite a downpour, with wind gusts and some lightning and thunder in the distance. A little later the wind calmed down and the rain became lighter and continued to fall for about a half hour before moving on. I stood by the screen door to watch the rain coming down and also to hear the sound of it and to smell the freshness that a rainfall brings.
I’ve written several posts about the importance of our connection with nature, usually emphasizing the beauty that we see—the sky, the trees, the animals and birds. But there are also the sounds and aromas that are part of that connection. And the sense of touch too, such as when we feel a breeze or the warmth of the sun. Hearing, seeing, and smelling the rain this evening reminded me of how thankful I am that I’m able to hear and to see and to smell.
It also reminded me of the admiration I have for people who have adapted to not having one or more of the physical senses. When I see people who are blind walking with a cane, I’m impressed not only with how they have adjusted to not being able to see, but also by their courage. When I’m at presentations there is usually someone signing for those attending who are deaf, and again I am impressed by the many people who have not let their inability to hear hold them back.
Another thought that came to me this evening as I watched and listened to the rain was how it can be symbolic of life experiences. Sometimes we find ourselves facing unexpected and difficult challenges that can feel overwhelming and frightening. The downpour, wind gusts, lightning, and thunder reflected those situations. And other times things go more smoothly as reflected by the gentle rain, those periods when we feel peaceful. The quieter times enable us to recognize that going through the more difficult times helps us to grow in qualities such as courage, perseverance, and selflessness.
Embracing both the stormy times and the calmer times helps us to follow our individual life paths and become more whole and grounded persons.