The Calm After The Storm

As I glance outside my window, I spot some small droplets of rain falling from the sky. A little while ago, there was a heavy rain that poured from the clouds with a vengeance. I always enjoy the end of a rainfall, the moment when you notice how quiet it has become. The air has a crisp, clean smell that overtakes the senses. The grass looks clean and the birds convene and restart their merry melodies. The best part is when you get to see the many beautiful colors of a rainbow. A rainbow reminds me that the storm has passed and life will continue on.

The calm after the storm also reminds me of my journey here on Earth and my relationship with my Heavenly Father. The peace that the end of a storm brings is the same peace the Lord promises after the storms we deal with in life. There will always be those "Aha!" moments when our Father holds us in His arms and we can feel His protection. We might even realize why we had to go through this difficult time. The lessons learned can hit us hard, much like the pelting rain we just got through.

There have been many storms that I have dealt with, both as a child and as an adult. Some of them have been relentless and mighty. Others have been like rain with a gentle breeze. Occasionally, there were slight sprinkles that passed quickly. It doesn't matter what the size has been because the outcome remains the same. God comforts me through His word and by bringing my loved ones around me. He always shows me what I have waiting for me on the other side. The amazing rainbows in my life! He has provided me with a husband who loves me unconditionally. He reminds me that I have two beautiful children who are so very special. I also have a handful of loving family members and an outpouring of friends, both old and new.

The rainbow has been a constant reminder of our son, who was stillborn eleven years ago. I like to imagine him sliding down the rainbow, with a big grin and a hearty wave aimed at me. It helps me remember how loved he is by our Father and how happy he is in heaven.

What are your rainbows, friends? What lessons have you learned after the storms in your life? Sometimes it is good to reflect on those rainbows. For me, it is often what helps me get through a rough day. Remembering how very blessed I am gives me that extra push along the path that I am on. I don't want to stop so long and focus on the storms, like I tend to do. I am ready to focus on the beautiful rainbows, the many colors and textures in my life, and the bounty of family and friends.