Whether the weather
Dear Younger Me,
There’s this thing about Iowa that I simply can’t stand, the weather. One day is beautiful and the next is a natural disaster, and yes, blizzards are a natural disaster. I’m a girl who craves stable weather. I don’t think it’s too much to ask for, but Iowa seems to care less about that request.
On the other hand, Iowa has something incredibly important to me, my family and some dear friends.
I have now lived in three countries. I’ve learned the weather may be different, but everywhere has its unique type of storms. Thankfully, I have found people at each home to be with when circumstances weren’t my ideal.
Some of my favorite childhood memories were blizzards where we lit candles and played games. I lived on a couple rainy coasts in Europe, and I will never forget nights soaked while laughing on a 40 minute bike ride. Last year, we had a bizarre number of tornados and found myself watching movies in a closet with my sister.
If it were up to me, I would see the sun everyday. I’m glad I’m not in control because I wouldn’t have the memories that have been made in the midst of the storms. What I’ve come to realize is no matter where you are, there will be storms. We can’t control the storm, but we choose how we respond and who we endure them with.
Trust me, I get your frustration about what’s out of your control, but I challenge you to use that energy and consider what is. You can’t help it if there's lightning. Do you want to think about what you’re not doing or dance? Do you want to be with people pointing out how dark it is or someone who picks out the setlist?
I guess I’m just thinking, what if the point isn’t wishing for a clear radar, but embracing it with whoever you choose to not only share the sunny days with but play games with when the lights go out?
If I am trapped inside due to snow then I hope I am having a tournament day with my family. If I can’t see through my glasses on a bike because it’s raining then I hope I am with people who convince me to take the long way back because we are on an adventure. If tornados are going to roll down nearby streets then I hope I’m with my sister watching “Shark Tale.”
Location and the storms might look different in the years to come. My hope is you embrace them. You can dance in the sun with anyone. Who makes dancing in the rain unforgettable? Don’t take them for granted.
Figuratively and literally, I hope you learn to use your energy towards how you respond over fixating on the elements that were never in your control.
With Love,
Older You