Afternoon storms and broken branches....

This afternoon at 3pm or so, a little thundershower turned into a raging summer storm. Kelly and I were working hard in our insurance agency. Suddenly, it darkened and the sounds of the storm were almost deafening. Our office building was built in 1890 as a private residence. It is known as the Bowman Homestead Estate. The metal roof was just replaced over the last month or so. We occupy these upstairs offices and heard every pounding thud of the work. Metal seems to intensify every sound. But....what fun during a crazy storm like today! It was like we were smack dab in the middle of a fierce waterfall, only we weren't getting wet.
Afterward, I went outside to explore. I love to do that after a big rain. The plants and grass and trees seem to be grateful for their long-awaited drink. But, this poor tree, next to the driveway into the office didn't fare so well. It seems to lose a big branch every single year in a storm. But...it's interesting...the hole is obvious for awhile, then the tree somehow adapts and is even more beautiful, and the empty space is something of the past. I like this tree. Perhaps I feel a kinship with it because it teaches me something. When you get broken (and you will) ..... be strong, adapt and keep reaching for the sun.....and keep giving shade to others.
Man, I love a summer storm.