Each Storm Is a Lesson
Abigail Elina Handojo, Inland Empire Branch
Do you hear that?
The pitter-patter of raindrops
Like a heart that falters but never falls
Sliding off of slanted rooftops
And cascading over stucco walls
Some say it’s nature’s tears,
Then why is it so rare where I’m from?
And how come it eases my fears,
As if the best is yet to come?
Do you feel that?
It’s a peaceful kind of pain
Like surrendering to a wish come true
A silent prayer made in the rain
Or biting back the words “I love you”
Like suppressing a scream
That dares to rise to the top of your lungs
Like being trapped in a dream
Where you’re forced to hold your tongue
Do you see that?
The clouds that barricade the sky
Like upset wisps reaching for rooftops
Brave enough to fly, but too scared to cry
Until it pours down and never stops
For darkness hides the bright
The possibility of what you choose to be
And soon again you’ll see the sunlight
Something I wish someone could’ve told me
For the rain is a longing.
And I feel it too.
You’re not alone.
Learn to let go of your discomfort
The rain is temporary as is most things
Happiness, maybe, but so is hurt
Think about the rainbow a storm brings
All I can offer you is peace
Please know that it will get better
You’ll be able to put your mind at ease
But for now, just focus on the weather.
Abigail Elina Handojo read “Each Storm is a Lesson”
to considerable acclaim at the inaugural Riverside satellite meeting
of the Inland Empire Branch in February.