A Reflection on Rainy Days
By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Coolness brings the refreshing essence of the season, with the changing colors of the leaves serving as a vivid reminder that we are truly in the midst of fall. The arrival of the rain deepens the season and stirs my emotions.
I have always had a deep affection for rain. During my childhood, rainy days held a special place in my heart. These were the days when my parents would finish their work in the fields earlier than usual and return home. I eagerly anticipated the delightful homemade snacks that my mother would prepare. She would be at home before my siblings and I returned from school. My excitement would escalate as the last school bell rang.
One memory that stands out is when my father surprised me by visiting my elementary school. That morning, I had forgotten to carry an umbrella in my backpack, even though rain was expected. My dad reminded me to take the umbrella, but I forgot. I distinctly remember sitting in class, gazing out of the window, and spotting my dad making his way towards my classroom, passing by the playground. (Back then, parents could visit their children’s classrooms without going through the administration office.) He returned home early, saw my umbrella sitting by the shoe rack, and didn’t bother to bring it to me.
Sometimes, I wondered if my parents truly loved us. They didn’t always express their love in words, but moments like my mother making homemade snacks even when she was tired and my father’s unspoken gesture with the umbrella were testaments to their deep and unspoken love. These are the moments that anchored my heart with the love and care of my parents.
However, after experiencing two dreadful floods that affected my parents and learning about the challenges faced by the homeless during bad weather, I began to struggle with my emotions on rainy days. It is heartbreaking to know that many people are not sheltered during challenging weather days.
I find myself caught between loving memories of my childhood and the heartache of reality. I become vulnerable once again. Such struggles never truly cease, I know. I will continue to grapple with them as I practice loving God and loving my neighbors as I love myself. Right before our children started school, all four of us fell ill one by one. I was the last to get sick, so I took care of the rest of the family. However, when I wasn’t feeling well, it was a significant struggle to look after everyone else.
What does God want me to do? What is the best way to love God and my neighbors as I love myself? I understand that it’s not just my challenges but everyone’s.
For the October Bible memorization in the Church School, we’ll be memorizing Matthew 22:37-39: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
These words guide us on our journey to love and care for one another. Love is mysterious, and it only grows when we share it, but it will decrease if we don’t share. As we navigate the changing seasons and the seasons of life, let us remember God’s love and compassion for each and every one and God’s blessing upon us as a gateway of heavenly blessings through us.
Our children, youth, and their parents at Blaine Memorial seem to be settling into their new schedules, and it’s a joy to hear about their weekly activities, which will strengthen them physically and intellectually. Our Church School and BYG are in full swing with lessons and activities that will help our children and youth grow spiritually. I am grateful to our Church School teachers and BYG Directors and Leaders for their dedicated work. A huge thanks to them and to you all for sharing your love whenever you can! Have a great October!
The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church.
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