Rainy Day Reflections

It has rained here almost constantly for the last 2 weeks. Puddles are huge and irresistible for any small child in wellies.  The rivers are swollen and fast moving. Hills are hidden and fog-bound.  It’s the kind of weather that can get you down after it’s persisted for a while. In Scotland we get so many rain showers that we not only take them for granted, but we also begin to actively resent them. It’s so easy to forget that there are parts of the world where the rain does not fall, the rivers are all but a trickle and the parched earth is defined by its scars, rather than its puddles. Yes, it’s easy to forget to be grateful of the rain.

Kids are a great reminder though.  Splashing through puddles.  Standing with their umbrellas under drainpipes.  Squeals of excitement watching the river rushing by.  They remind you what’s good about the rain.  Colour is more brilliant, more intense against the background of dreich grey.  Hugs and laughter warm the soul, if not the fingers.  The sound of raindrops on wet pavement strike a jaunty staccato.  The smell of fresh, clean, newness pervades the air.

It’s good to be reminded.