When It Rains

Gratitude Journal
     1. Rainy days and Sundays
     2. Honesty
     3. Honesty, even when painful!
     4. Reconnecting with family
     5. Any time with grand kids...

"It rains on the just and the unjust..."

Recently, on our annual family reunion, it rained every day.  Some days there were just a few sprinkles.  On those days we were able to doge rain drops and get outside and have some fun.  On other days, we felt a little more trapped indoors with three little people.  Each seemed anxious to outdo the other with loud play or orders and directions toward one another.  Although the house was large, there was really no place to 'get away' from all the activity and sound.

There were moments of deep joy, as well as sadness.  Joy of being with folks we don't see often.  Joy of reconnecting and laughing together and making new memories.  Joy of watching the children grow before our eyes.  And sad moments also when we realized we had let one another down in some way or we could not erase painful experiences for those we love and care so much about, or when we remembered those who were not with us this year, for so many different reasons. Those moments were tough!

Rainy days.  That can be a metaphor for any day that seems to be stacked against us.  Moments when we really have no control.  Anxious moments when we wonder what will happen next.  Sad moments when things don't turn out according to our best plans or wishes or prayers.

Rainy days.  This can also be a wonderful time for quiet moments of introspection.  Moments when we ask ourselves what our will is as compared to God's Will.  To review our actions and reactions.  To dream of what might happen next... what doors may open or close before us.  Times when we can just sit together in silence and listen and watch blessings drop from heaven.

When we visit the rental cabin during the summer, I enjoy getting up early while the house is quiet. When all are asleep and there is no sound of T.V. or other distraction.  Listening to the quiet, I call it.  Some might say reflection, others contemplation.  What ever the title, I embrace the time as gift and offer thanks.  Rain brings growth to plants and provides nourishment to animals.  And it also brings renewal to the soul, if we will let it!

AMEN