The Gift of Unexpected Rain

Elul Day 25

Yesterday it started raining, a warm, steady unwavering rain that continued through the night. This is somewhat unusual for Northern California in September, which made it even more delicious. The hillside outside my window has been brown and dry for months; this morning it is greener than I have seen in a long time. 

Reservoir 6

Just as the climate can be too dry, our spirits can feel brittle and parched as well. Perhaps this is a variation on what the mystics call the dark night of the soul.

A season of spiritual dryness.



Think about the sensation of thirst. It is distracting and uncomfortable. If we become too dehydrated, our health can be compromised. Now recall the feeling of taking a long cool drink of water when you are thirsty. Relieving, satisfying, soothing. Aaaaahhhhhhhh….

It was only a few days ago that I wrote about the prayer for rain and posted the beautiful Michael Leunig poem. I have no delusions about being able to influence the weather, but I will say that the synchronicity is delightful. 

Sometimes we need a spiritual sippy cup.