Rainy days on the farm can bring a mixed bag of emotions. From the muddy paddocks and wet animals to the slippery slick hills, it’s easy to get frustrated. However, I firmly believe that perspective is everything and embracing gratefulness, can help us see the silver lining in rainy days on the farm and throughout life.
Mud in the Paddock: A Test of Patience
So, let just vent and get it out there. When the rain pours down, my pristine paddocks quickly turn into messy muddy terrain. It becomes challenging to navigate the farm without getting stuck, and the animals have to contend with soggy conditions. But let’s flip this a bit and get our head right at the most basic level—rain is nature’s way of providing moisture to the soil, enabling it to retain nutrients and support healthy plant growth. Without rain, farming would be an uphill battle, so with a flip of perspective, these muddy paddocks suddenly become a symbol of the farm’s fertility. I am grateful.
Wet Animals: Uncomfortable or Refreshed?
As rain continues to pour animals seek shelter, our babies looked so disheveled and uncomfortable yesterday. Wet fur or feathers, muddy hooves, and soggy bedding can make us caretakers exasperated. BUT maybe let’s consider and reframe that the rain gives our animals an opportunity to receive a refreshing bath, cleansing their bodies of dirt and parasites. I mean, rainwater is purer than the water that is sitting in their troughs, so it also offers a natural source of hydration. As I look at my rumpled babies, I like reminder that even in moments of discomfort, there can be hidden benefits. I am grateful.
Slick Hills and My Old Bones
Navigating slippery hills while “farming after 50” is no joke can be a nerve-wracking experience. People, equipment and animals alike face an increased risk of accidents due to a lack of traction. Yet, it’s during these moments that I step back and intentionally exercise a bit more caution. The challenge of reminds me of the importance of adaptability and resilience. Maybe a challenge poses an opportunity to reassess a practice or habit and find innovative solutions to reduce the risks. So, in this way rainy days serve as reminders that there are lessons to be learned even in the face of adversity. I am grateful.
Replenishing Fields: Nature’s Gift
Let’s move on to the easy gratefulness! Perhaps the most profound benefit of rainy days on the farm is the way they replenish the fields and gardens. Rainwater seeps into the soil, providing hydration to crops and revitalizing the land. Rainy days bring a natural irrigation system that lessens the need for hoses and other water supplies. Rain can be a reminder of God’s generosity and how so many things are interconnected. I am grateful.
So, yes… sigh…rainy days on the farm definitely present frustrations and challenges, but they also offer opportunities for growth and gratefulness. By shifting our perspective, we can see the value in and maybe even celebrate the muddy paddocks, wet animals, and slick hills. I choose to embrace an attitude of gratefulness and I truly believe that it helps to weather the storms (real or metaphorical).
So step back today, maybe even stand with your face to the sky under the replenishing droplets and appreciate the many blessings that come with the rain. Be grateful.
#FarmingAfter50 #farminspiration #celebratingagriculture #farmlife #rainydays #heartlandrootandharvest #lifeouthere