When a storm moves on, there is usually that period first thing in the morning, when everything is quiet with the exception of the birds that are singing away as they flutter around in the early dew.   Such was the case today when I looked outside at my patio and saw the calla lilies look bigger and brighter as they stretched up to meet the sky.  Not to be outdone were the other flowers that together appear like a fine tuned orchestra waiting for the conductor to lead them in a great concerto. I took all of this in, as I contemplated how similar our lives can be when we ourselves have those tumultuous periods that can become these tempest type stages that can test our faith, while it reinforces the strength we sometimes don't know that we had.  I know that there are many who face these situations and some with a much greater degree of severity than others.  When we go by our neighbors house, most of us are cordial with those folks that live a stone's throw away from us, however, I would gather that a lot of us do not know how severe their personal situations may be in comparison to ours.  People face dilemmas with their health, relationships, finances and even their faith at times, when the question may arise as to why someone has to go through an uncomfortable or unexpectedly stressful situation.  If you are lucky you have close friends and family that can help you walk through these moments, while offering if nothing else, a shoulder to lean your head upon.  This is why it is so important to be grateful for all things on a consistent basis.  We never know when we are the one that needs the shoulder or when we are called in the middle of the night to be there for someone that is near and dear to us.  It is an unwritten contract that we have with those special people that we all agree to sign in our hearts.  When the days are tougher than normal, our ability to reflect on the things that went right before that period becomes even more essential.  It provides us with a vivid example of the feeling that enables us to sleep at night knowing that everything is going to be okay.  There is a reason that flowers shine so brightly after those stormy days, as they have natures wisdom circulating through their roots, stems and petals.  I am positive if they could whisper any words of enlightenment to us, they would be along the lines that we should enjoy the sunny cheerful moments, so that when the next storm arrives we are prepared enough to know that those too shall pass.