The clouds were parting so I decided that it was a good time to run errands. Driving along the coast the first time in the new year I watched the waves mightily splash like a bunch of wild-eyed boys crashing their bikes into piles of leaves. My windshield wipers lazily cleared the soft drizzle with a small squeak. The little valley and its velvety green hills quietly anticipated the bloom that would surely come. There was a newness in the air. New Year Day is just another day, having said that, the world did feel new and full of possibilities. I pondered this as I coasted along.
Then I saw it. A full rainbow so dazzling it looked fake. The massive bow appeared to glide along the open field keeping up with me close enough to touch, then changed position before disappearing in my rearview. I gave a quick thanks because it seemed appropriate. Following the flow of traffic, I went around the base of a hill and there was another one! Just as bold and beautiful as the first. A mile later another. Then a double! (I count that as one). When I got into town, I parked in a parking garage facing downtown and there over the cluster of the quaint buildings glistening from a fresh wash was another.
I had to squint against the sunshine but didn’t try to dodge the sprinkles when weaving my way through our bustling community. “Amazing.” I thought. Five rainbows in about 15 minutes. What are the odds? What if this is an omen about the year to come? I decided to believe that was the case. I mean why not? Our life is so much how we decide to perceive it. While my Converse squish swashed along the sidewalk a spur of the moment decision led me into my favorite cookie shop for a treat on this momentous day. I watched the rain fall and sparkle like confetti in the sunlight while I waited for my order. It can only mean there was another rainbow out there delighting someone somewhere. I wondered for a second if they felt as I do about the dance of water and light. I silently hoped so. I exited the shop, cookie in hand and felt like the world was mine for the taking. Happy New Year to me!