Santa Ana winds pummeled Southern California for days, propelling flames into canyons and communities with hellish ferocity. Leaving ashes, homelessness and discord in their wake, the winds swooped into the American Southwest. Partnered with above normal temperatures, the elements forced people in and tempers up. Violent crimes spiked.
Years ago, when I taught elementary school, I’d change my lesson plans when the wind blew. The children needed more kinetic and tactile activities. They had to move more, talk more, laugh more. Their physical selves seemed supercharged, so I adapted those days and channeled that energy.
As a child I adored walking to Berlyn Avenue School on bright, windy days. My imagination soared alongside the elm and mulberry leaves as I considered the possibility of flight and basked in a sense of propulsion that might carry me toward any dreams, my goals, my hopes. I loved the wind. It cleared the darkness and blew away the pall of my everyday life. When the wind blew, I could envision something better, something more.
The wind. A basic element with incredible power. Devastating. Provoking. Invigorating. Liberating.
Years ago, when I taught elementary school, I’d change my lesson plans when the wind blew. The children needed more kinetic and tactile activities. They had to move more, talk more, laugh more. Their physical selves seemed supercharged, so I adapted those days and channeled that energy.
As a child I adored walking to Berlyn Avenue School on bright, windy days. My imagination soared alongside the elm and mulberry leaves as I considered the possibility of flight and basked in a sense of propulsion that might carry me toward any dreams, my goals, my hopes. I loved the wind. It cleared the darkness and blew away the pall of my everyday life. When the wind blew, I could envision something better, something more.
The wind. A basic element with incredible power. Devastating. Provoking. Invigorating. Liberating.
How does the tempest affect your mood?
Share your thoughts!