There’s nothing like standing in the middle of a ferocious wind-driven rain storm. You know, the kind that you can’t open your eyes because the rain is coming down like a fire hose and chairs are tumbling past you. Why do you think they stick that poor weatherman out there? Not because he wants to test his skill at dodging road signs but because some of us wish we were out there. That equals ratings.
If you’ve ever been out in winds over forty mph along with the accompanying rain or hail, you know what I mean. It’s a “lets see what you’ve got” mentality along with a sense that you could be crushed at any moment.
The most recent time I’ve had the opportunity to test my mettle against heavy winds was during the remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole off the South Carolina coast. Being in a celebratory mood, having won the greatest family-played poker game ever, a friend and I decided it was a perfect time to go down to the beach after the wind tossed all the deck chairs up against one side of the railing. Struggling to keep a straight line we trudged along against the wind and rain, hoping for a true challenge at the ocean’s edge. Fortunately for us the winds were strong, but not strong enough to knock you down. Leaning in and looking out at a raging ocean brings out some type of primal urge that makes you think you could actually beat it, that you are nature’s master.
Of course, one good gust and I would have swiftly been put back in place. Cartwheeling down the beach like a discarded beach chair.
After about ten minutes we had enough and went in. There is an immense sense of relief after being out in extreme elements. I’m not sure if it’s from feeling like you got away with something that you shouldn’t have or the release of some sort of primal, man versus nature instinct. Whatever the reason, the evidence that it actually happened is unmistakeable. It shows in your eyes, 80’s style hair, and sopping wet clothes.
I have never given any thought as to how animals react to the same situation. That is until we were blessed with about 2.5 inches of rain in 2 hours yesterday. As I watched the lake in the backyard become a stage III river rapid, I had flashbacks to the above mentioned story. Giving about 10 seconds of thought to the idea of channeling my inner caveman and braving it, a simultaneous lightening flash and thunder clap changed my mind. So I just watched.
To my surprise, the group of Canada Geese that inhabit the lake just stood in the middle of it all. Making no effort to move. Despite the lake rising quickly towards their feet. There was no struggle to move forward nor was there any desire to seek shelter. They never moved. A nice contrast developed between the calming stoicism of the geese and the stormy chaotic mess that surrounded them. It put off a “this is part of our existence and will soon pass ” vibe rather than a “I’M THE KING OF THE WORLD” one. I’m sure at this point in their lives they would have found a shelter if they so desired. They chose not to, sitting there and enjoying the show.
Next time I’m fortunate enough to be exposed to some adrenaline pumping weather, hopefully I will recall these Canada Geese. Instead of letting Captain Caveman take over, I’ll relax, drop the ego, and enjoy the show.
**Written January 2012**