There is something very comforting about being under the canopy of an umbrella as the rain gently falls. The feeling of being safe from the elements — sheltered, dry, warm — with the rhythmic sounds of the drops overhead as they meet with the fabric and glide safely to the ground. The moment is something to be experienced, rather than explained, to truly be appreciated for its benefits.
Similarly, sitting in a comfy chair with a blanket and a good book with some music softly playing in the background, or looking out the window and watching the rain fall from the sky as it renews the environment with the moisture, both have a way of reminding us to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. These moments have a way of renewing us with a gentle reminder to slow down and notice the moments. It is in these moments, by taking intentional, slow deep breaths we are refocused and recharged from within.
Also reminiscent from childhood days when a tent or fort made from blankets and pillows was a safe place to seek shelter and comfort, umbrellas are another of the ‘feel safe and protected’ places offered to us in this life — when we slow down enough to embrace the moments.
Photo by Taryn Elliott
As the rain gently slows its rhythm, we reach for a warm jacket, rain boots and the umbrella which waits patiently by the door for days such as these. Days when a slow walk in the rain will rejuvenate our spirits as we walk, listening to the steady beat of the descending drops as they slowly find their way from the sky far beyond our reach and into our world of reflection as we walk along, sometimes lost in our own thoughts.
Although umbrellas were no doubt designed to keep you dry, the knowledge that you are being sheltered in such a beautiful, simplistic way offers such a soothing and calm feeling of happiness.
As with many things we experience, weather is the same, and a transition begins to occur. The rain begins to slow and the clouds dissipate. The sun begins to appear from beyond the cloud cover, and a rainbow often appears as a gift from the recent rainfall, serving as a reminder of the beauty of change as one experience flows into the next.
Photo by Jennifer Murray
I’m a proud mom, a friend to many, and have a profound belief in human kindness.
My goal to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life includes my love to write about things that resonate with me. My gift to you is sharing my perspective on living a happy life.
xx
