Relief!

Finally the rain is here. I find myself gazing out the window like a small child or a dog, eagerly anticipating the puddles and the feeling of rain on my face. I’m sure everyone else here in Arizona is thankful or maybe a little annoyed. But not me, I’m brought back home to rainy Vancouver. Oh how I’ve missed the rain!

It’s true, you never realize how much you miss something until it is gone. That’s a good reminder to look about and be thankful. It gets me to thinking what is the power of rain? It washes everything clean, it renews life. Unless it’s excessive, then it can be life threatening and devastating. Even Mother Nature understands the balance of life and usually sticks to the middle. But look out when she’s angry!

Here in Arizona we are getting the rain and a few storms as a residual effect of hurricane season. The storms have been running aground off the coast of California and Mexico, but the effects were felt here (even some very rare tornadoes lately). Being the Inward Wanderer, it makes me think about the affects of our outbursts. They are felt much further than we realize, so where and when they touch down matters. But for me, today, the rain is healing.

Letting in the Light

Today there is no air conditioning needed. The blinds are open welcoming in the light. The windows are open letting in some much needed fresh air. My senses eagerly take in the surrounding sights and sounds. My deprivation tank has been opened. And that is how I feel. I have a new appreciation for the small things like light, silence and NO body vibrations. I hear sounds and can look out my windows and see where they are coming from. Today a new family might be moving in? They have their truck and trailer and another vehicle towing the ‘toys’. The interesting thing is they have two pre-adolescent daughters. First I heard the voices of children, then I eagerly looked out the window for them. You see, this is a plus 55 community and it’s very quiet here. Almost too quiet! So hearing the voices of children brings life into the community. But I noticed they didn't park anywhere, they are just pulled over to the side of a road. It appears their grandmother lives in the spot opposite mine. I’m thinking they are here to visit but can’t stay due to the children. Hmm, an interesting diversion from the usual meanderings of my mind. Maybe I’m becoming one of those nosey neighbours? (I hope not)

Building Community

Actually, I’ve been getting out more. I found a church to connect to, which is really interesting because I’m not really a religious person, more a person of faith / spirituality. Church in Gilbert Arizona is a THING. Everyone goes to church and there as SO many of them. My church has three ‘campuses’ and each campus has about five services. Something like 12,000 people attend. Wow! What I like most about it, is the fact it has the word ‘community’ in the name - Sun Valley Community Church. It feels like a community and that is what I have been in search of.

I also joined the Seniors’ Centre (yes, I swallowed my pride). Most of the people are much older, but the community there is wonderful. They have a plethora of classes that are free or very low cost. Now I am taking crocheting, drawing and watercolour classes. That really fills up my calendar! Now between family, classes, church groups, and work, my days are pleasantly filled with opportunities to connect with others and celebrate the good things in life.

It looks like everyone was right. Arizona is not looking too bad these days. Now that the hot weather / melting days are behind me, the future looks bright and fun. I look forward to settling into a new pattern of life. Soon I will need to begin planning my return journey home - but that stress can wait for now. For now, I’d much rather enjoy the bliss while it’s here. After all, I’ve earned it!