Why Should We Choose To Dance In The Rain?

I like the rain.  Not the ever-present drizzle of Brussels, London, or Seattle, but the much-needed rain showers and thunderstorms which provide cleansing and nourishment to the farmlands.  I have lived in the desert and, in places where rain is one’s constant companion.  I prefer the middle ground.  There is a symmetry in  the coming and going of the rain.

However, When we lived in Brussels, I learned to appreciate rain that hangs about.  I made a choice to enjoy walks in the rain, scooched up under my personal umbrella roof.  It was cozy and a place to be alone amongst the crowds.  Yet, In those times where rain and gloom hang about, I admit, my physiology starts to protest.  I want some sunshine!

This business of dancing in the rain, is another thing altogether.  It is not just cooperating, putting up with or making the best of something you can’t change.

It is choosing to:

• put on a smile, kicking up your heels and shouting for joy!
• be in a state that leads one’s emotions instead of letting them lead you
• put one’s physical pull to be droopy, sad or grumpy to the side and be in joy

When that choice is made, in spite of how you “feel”, and lean into dancing in the rain, the emotions and body follow your choice and – dancing in the rain, becomes A DANCE IN THE RAIN!

Dance In The Rain As Gratitude

This works for figurative rains as well:  trials, irritations, frustrations, or even life-threatening serious stuff.  It really does.  The rain may depart as you are dancing, or you may just have to dance your way through it.  Either way, the choice to dance is good for you.  The more serious the situation, the more important it is.

Of course, dancing in the rain represents choosing:

• Thanksgiving and gratitude for what one has – even if only life and breath
• Laughter at all times, good and bad.  This does not diminish the seriousness of any given situation, but what will it hurt to laugh in the midst of it?
• Joy rather than sorrow, even when sorrow is justified and real.

I recently heard Tyler Perry talk about his motive behind the character Madea.  In an interview, he stated if he can get people laughing, he can then introduce hard serious subject matter in order to get it out on the table.  There is wisdom in that.  Laughter disarms and heals. 

My husband and I began this year by, each night, sharing three things we are grateful for.  It felt superficial at first, but now it is a nightly habit, even if we have to text it to each other!

As we enter this Holiday season, we begin with a day of Thanksgiving and Gratitude.  A perfect way to begin the season.  Let’s make it a habit and kick 2019 off with  a dance in the rain!

What are you thankful for?  Please share one thing in the comments below.  Just one.  Then, dance away!