It’s raining again.
People are frustrated.
It’s cold, dark and wet.
That’s what happens when it rains.
We can’t control the weather.
We can, however, control how we think and talk about it.
I recently heard Loretta LaRoche, Humorist and Stress Management expert, speak about humor as a coping mechanism. During her presentation she shared the following statistic – approximately 75% of conversation is based on complaints or negativity. 75%!!
This statistic upset me, though it didn’t surprise me. Especially when it comes to weather. These days, “What a crappy day!” seems to be the first thing out of someone’s mouth. While I too prefer the warmth of the sun, there is a certain peace and comfort that accompanies a rainy day.
So instead of complaining about it, I choose to see the bright side. It’s there, can you see it?
“Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities - always see them, for they’re always there.” - Norman Vincent Peale
I wonder - if I let a string of rainy days get me down, how easily do I give in when faced with other challenges in my life? I know, June hasn’t been very sunshine bright and it’s ok to feel bummed out. But knowing the sun probably won’t shine again until close to end of week, try lifting your mood by creating your own brightside….here’s what I see:
A chance to slow down. When the sun is shining I always feel pressure to get out of the house. A rainy day is instant permission to stay in bed a little longer or sip my coffee a little slower. Perhaps all this rain is a signal to simply slow down.
A chance to play. When was the last time you went splashing through puddles and got soaking wet without a care? A rainy day is a perfect opportunity to bring some play into your life. Get your slicker and start splashing. You will feel like a kid again! In fact, I’m looking forward to an afternoon run.
The grass is always greener. When the dog days of summer finally appear, which I know they will, then we’ll be complaining it’s too hot and wishing for a breeze and water drops to cool us off. Never satisfied. As of now, the grass is thick and green reminding me of a rain forest. Before the grass turns brown and dry, I’ll relish in the lushness of my back yard.
A new opportunity. I’m at a point in my life where I believe any day that I put two feet on the ground is a good day. A chance to start fresh and get back to my senses, rain or shine.
An opportunity for growth. I used to be “afraid” of walking in the rain, then I learned about the proper gear I needed to stay dry and warm. Now I love getting out in the rain (no thunder for me, I have to draw the line somewhere). The rain helps trees, flowers and grass grow. And over the years, getting over my “fear” of walking in the rain has in many ways helped me grow. What was I so afraid of and what did I need to overcome being stuck about it?
What do you think? How do you see the bright side to an otherwise rainy day?
Tags: Back to Your Senses, Food for thought, Positive Thinking // 8 Comments »
