The weather.  It is something we’re always talking about – and in a lot of instances, complaining about.  It’s too cold, too hot, too wet, or too dry.  Of course we have those beautiful days that we love, 70 degrees, no humidity and sunny, but surely there is someone out there who might define this type of day as undesirable as well (“I need it to rain – my garden is dry” or “I’m on medication and can’t be in the sun, it would be better if it was cloudy”).

We’ve had a lot of weather-related events this past winter.  And currently, a lot of New Jersey (where I live) has been underwater with torrential rains and flooding.  More fuel to complain about for most of us.  Yesterday, I heard many descriptors for the day (including descriptors that I used!) like “gross, depressing, awful, disgusting, icky,” etc.

The changing weather is a good metaphor for life.  Life changes.  Things happen.  We easily become stuck in a cycle of wanting to hang on to the “good” (those beautiful days),  push away the “bad” (the icky rain) and we feel indifferent to the “neutral” (perhaps a gray day with nothing much going on).  Sometimes we feel peaceful inside (a calm day), sometimes things are tumultuous inside (a stormy day).  The bottom line is that change is a part of being on this planet.  The more we can accept this change, and turn within ourselves to find our peace and happiness, the more likely we are going to find a lasting peace.

So my challenge to you is to practice the art of non-judgment towards something we experience every day – the weather.  The moment you catch yourself labeling a day as “beautiful” or “gross,” take a step back and allow the day to be as it is.  Allow yourself to be as you are today.  Dwelling in acceptance can be a liberating place.