A Gentle Rain

Not all fun need be frenetic.

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A tranquil pattering on the leaves, ozone breathing through the screen, thunder rumbling far away, and balmy breeze casting grace on the moment.

Summertime, and the living is easy.

Of course I say that from the dry comfort of my cave.

The kitties rush in from the rainy deck. They don’t agree on much. They all agree that wet is not good. Although I notice that after a quick grooming, all three settle down at door and window to watch the rain. I‘m not alone in appreciation of everyday blessing.

Not everyone enjoys rain, not even gentle rain, save waterfowl and seals. None of these in my backyard. I can imagine groundhog enjoying rain if her tunnel had a cave-like entrance, but her tunnel opening is vertical. Rain floods it.

Bird and racoon seem untroubled by precipitation of any amount - except when the wind blows fiercely. Nobody goes out when a big wind blows.

Sunshine, is appreciated by all. Gentle rain by a few. Storm, by nearly no one.

I can appreciate storm, because I don’t have to be out in it. When the squalls of wild weather disrupt all life, I can watch or ignore, protected by the warmth of my cave. Whether thunder and lightning shatters the sky or winter storm blows snow.

I can watch the spectacle in comfort. I can even enjoy a beer and popcorn while viewing.

I’m privileged. Few are.

Most of God’s creatures must scramble every day. That’s why I’m happy for the respite they receive from a gentle rain, followed by a sunshiny day.

Squirrel, chipmunk, bird, and even racoon, indulge themselves in time-out on sunny afternoons. They temporarily abandon fighting, flight & feeding, to bask in shameless sprawling soaking their heathen bodies in the warmth of the Sun.

I can almost imagine prayer.

Not all fun need be frenetic.

By K. L. Shipley

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