After it Rains

pet·ri·chor

/ˈpeˌtrīkôr/

(noun)

1. a pleasant smell that frequently accompanies the first rain after a long period of warm, dry weather.

“other than the petrichor emanating from the rapidly drying grass, there was not a trace of evidence that it had rained at all.”

Something about the smell of damp earth is calming. It’s like the rain brings down to the ground a sort of heavenly stillness. People walking on the street keep their heads bent to their chests. The birds are quietly huddled away, waiting to see if the downpour will start again. It is only the earthworms who move about, and even they make no conversation, at least none we can hear. Yet if you listen closely, the wind will whisper secrets it’s longed to share into your ear before quietly turning her cheek.

Breathe deeply and let yourself enjoy the smell of dampness. Feel the hints of rain tickle your olfactory palate. Maybe this smell reminds you of childhood, playing in puddles and mud. Perhaps this smell makes you long for the comfort of warmth and community. Or maybe this smell makes you feel connected yet distant to the world around you all at once.

Take a step into the drizzle that envelops the atmosphere. Let yourself feel the air around you. For once in your busy, buzzing life, take a short period of time and collect yourself among cool calmness that cleanses that which has been touched by the rain. See how nature basks in this fleeting moment. Recognize that we all know before long, the moment will fade away as the sunshine breaks the cloud cover and excited action begins again.