We were gone a week house sitting-pet watching and I wasn't able to enjoy Brown's Ferry in Tualatin. I missed the routine of praying, listening, walking, so I was determined not to let this siege of rain keep me away. Isn't that why we have umbrellas?
Usually at least twenty or thirty people pass me as I follow the trail over wooden bridges, by the river, a pond and through the woods. Like every other day the birds were singing, ducks were swimming, squirrels scampering, but where were all the joggers, runners, dog walkers? I missed the smiles and friendly greetings I never get at the grocery store, mall, post office.
This morning, in certain places, slippery spots on wooden bridges were ready to make the unwary slip, but I like to take it slow anyway. I enjoy the sights and sounds and even the smell of Brown's Ferry, especially in the rain and those wooden bridges have a unique wet wood smell all their own. Besides, it's good to remember that in the arid, agrarian world of the Bible rain was a wonderful image of life and abundance.
It's almost June and most Portlanders are saying enough already with the rain. Some are putting it in much stronger language. Sorry, I don't mind being a little more careful how I drive, paying more attention where I step and carrying an umbrella, but for those who have to work in it I know it can be a nuisance.
There was a time when people measured prosperity by God giving or withholding rain on the earth and … waters on the fields” (Job 5:10). Deprivation was portrayed as a time when there was “neither dew nor rain” (1 Kings 17:1). I suppose, however, it's possible to have even too much mint chocolate chip ice cream and I guess that applies to rain also.
Just remember, there's a price to pay for the lush green and beautiful flowers that surround us here in Portland. I would rather adjust my attitude to the rain than give up Oregon green. After all, there is a price to pay for everything; the hidden charges we all deny, the consequences we seek to avoid and the words we can't take back. They all have their time on life's stage.
Just remember to watch your step on wet wooden bridges.
Comments
Another fantastic Article, So discriptive I felt i was there
for a second. I appreciate that I can always count on you for that.
You bring the reader to where you are, and let them look around for
them self. Thank you!
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