Through the rain

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IT'S THE SMALL THINGS

As I write this, the rain is falling outside, and I hear the raindrops non-stop pitter-pattering, in perfect duet with the thunder. Lightning follows, and it is again, one of those nights. It has been raining non-stop the past few days, and as expected, some areas are underwater, and the floods, a continuous problem.

Today, more than ever, I recognize how blessed I am to have sturdy walls, and a roof over my head — most especially on days like this. I cannot help but worry, and think about those on the streets, and how situations like this can truly leave some feeling helpless.

Flooding has been a persistent problem for as long as I can remember, and as the years go by, it just seems to be getting worse. I then take to social media and scroll, and just like that, my hope is renewed. Smiles on children’s faces despite the weather, commuters still persevering – something is apparent: the Filipino spirit is still as, or even more resilient than it once was.

It seems that we will always have that special ability to find light even in the darkest, and direst of situations.

In the rain we find the goodness within each one of us. From the choice to make the most out of a tough situation, to wanting to do something to help others — calamities such as excessive flooding will always harness the bayanihan spirit within the hearts of every Filipino.

The grandeur of the gesture is irrelevant to the notion that something is being, or has been done. Lending a hand and showing some kindness and consideration to employees and co-workers is more than enough. No one is capable of doing and solving everything, but everyone is capable of doing something.

The rain will always slow us down. Whether it is heavy or light rain, getting from one point to another or simply having to call-off a work day, the rain will do this.

Some may harp at the losses of a work day, but perhaps if we choose to see it as a reminder from the universe to take a step back, re-group, and realize what is most important to us, then we can choose to see the “work from home” day as a gift that the situation has given, rather than focusing on time taken away. Life, after all, will always be a matter of perspective.

Lastly, and most importantly, the rain always teaches us to be grateful — beyond what we have, for those who relentlessly soldier on to make sure our lives still go on as normally, as seamlessly as possible.

Despite the hindrances and hazardous conditions, these front liners sacrifice their comfort and safety in the name of their jobs. The dedication to the occupation is something we must never take for granted, and always applaud, especially at a time like this.

For how much longer the habagat will go on we can only approximate. How many more typhoons will come our way this year we can only guess. But what we can be certain of is how to frame our mindsets, and condition our actions so that we can be someone for others, and continue to live life with an attitude of gratitude come what may.

As Mariah Carey will always remind us, we “can make it through the rain [and] stand up once again.”