rainy days.

{although just posted today, this post was written on Wednesday, last week}

It was a weekend afternoon, years ago. I was young, in late elementary school or early middle school. Everyone in my family was busy working outside. The sounds of a good pressure clean and loud water hitting the glass windows, concerned my protective puppy as she responded with piercing barks of her own. It was as if she was warning the water not to mess with her and her people. And it was then that I knew, she'd do her best to protect me and love me in her own little way.

Coming home alone, after school, wasn't as scary knowing she'd be there, waiting for me when I got home. And even if I was ever scared, she'd accompany me under the bed, while I waited for the fear to subside.

Every sick day, every tough day, every high school break-up, she knew, and she was there.

Many of us are afraid of pain and we do our best to avoid it at all costs. And if you're of the people-pleasing kind, you particularly dislike seeing people you love in pain. So, on a day like today, when my childhood dog was put to rest, I want nothing more than to be strong, myself, and take away the pain from other family members who are sad, too.

But with all that's happened this week with our family, and with vulnerable conversations that were born from the pain, I couldn't help but write about the way pain affects us. I almost didn't want to write about pain for the sole reason that it may inflict more sadness or pain when so many, like myself, are quick to avoid it.

But pain is real, it comes with the territory of being human, and sensitive, and raw, and beautiful. This is life and life's not always easy. But the grass needs the rain, just as much as it needs the sun. And as much as rainy days can suck, sometimes you just need a good cry, and letting yourself or the ones you love have one is half the battle.

Whenever tough things happen, even the people we love are quick to search for a positive hidden somewhere in the negative...but the clouds need to release the rain and can't be discounted by the sun. The rain is needed, it is necessary, and therefore, should not be depreciated. Our tears have much to teach us about life, love, and ourselves, and crying as an outlet for pain should never be shunned or perceived as weakness. For in our vulnerability, our heart is open to love, true love, love that doesn't flee from pain, but one that holds your hand tightly and says, "let me walk with you in the rain."

Rest in peace, Sassy girl. I'll always cherish the rainy days I spent with you.

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