We can't control the weather, but can make sure it doesn't control us.

Tips on Responding to Poetry:
Read (or listen to the audio link below) and allow the words to simply sit with you and sink in.
Maybe choose your favourite line or a few words that resonate.
Set a timer for 5 minutes, pick up a notebook and write anything that comes to mind.

I hate the rain

Miserable weather; I hate the rain.
I curse it over and over again.
Yet the car, previously dirty,
Slick and wet, appears clean.
And the dry barren land
Sprouts a fresh verdant green.

The icy droplets sting my face,
yet soothe my soul,
washing away cobwebs,
I emerge new and whole.

© Leona Marie, 2023

Photo by hamed talebi on Unsplash

Journal Prompts

• Is this (insert something you are unhappy about) really as bad as it seems?

• Make a list of things you hate. Now think of a positive that arises from each one.

• How does the weather influence your mood?

Reflection

There are numerous scientific studies proving that weather really does affect us both physically and mentally. Seasonal affective disorder is well-documented and most people recognise that more exposure to sunlight improves their mood and boosts their energy levels. What you might not know, however, is that weather influences our behaviour and decision-making too. For example, people spend more money when it is warm whereas rain and storms are associated with a reduction in how sociable people feel. Excessive heat impairs cognitive functioning, and both temperature and humidity can affect sleep quality.

We can’t control the weather, but we can control how we respond to it.