RAIN RAIN RAIN

Today in my region of the United States it is raining.  Many regions are experiencing flooding and loss of electricity.  Rain is nature's way of creating balance by providing moisture that promotes growth.  Unfortunately, too much rain in a short amount of time can leading to flooding and unwanted destruction.

The rain cycle begins when warm air rises and cold air rushes in to replace it.  This lifting of the warm air creates an area of low pressure causing the moisture in the air to condense and form clouds.  As the clouds grow larger, they can no longer support the weight of the water droplets and the rain falls to the ground.

The water then flows into rivers and lakes, eventually returning to the ocean.  This cycle begins again as the sun evaporates water from the surface creating more moist air that will eventually rise and form new clouds.

The end-product of liquid precipitation from the sky that falls down to the Earth is a vital part of life on earth, from the water we drink to preserve our bodies, to its cooling effect and providing the water and nutrients necessary to grow our food.  Regardless of how we feel about it, rain is an integral part of our lives and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Although rain may seem like a destructive force, rain is essential for life on earth.  Rain is the primary source of fresh water for all living things.  It helps to replenish the groundwater supply that plants and animals' use.  It also helps to keep the air clean and refreshed washing away dust and pollutants from the atmosphere.  Rain helps to moderate the earth's surface temperature making it suitable for all life forms.

We can see rain as a sign of hope, love, happiness, loneliness, sadness, despair, blessedness, warmth and comfort.  Others might find rain to be calming and reassuring providing a sense of comfort during stressful times.  Then there are some who simply enjoy the physical sensation of raindrops falling on their skin, making them happy, especially on those hot and sunny days.

"And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down.                                                      Without the rain, there would b no rainbow."