It's going to rain! Are you happy about that, or is it just an interruption? “No picnic today!” Hmm... Read your book. Study your lesson. Grandma understands.
Are you more interested in the weather or are you more interested in the climate? Weather is very short-term—climate is long-term. Take a broad view, if needed, and see that rain is probably best—in the long run.
The right amount of rain has many short-term and long-term benefits for the environment and society. However, the right amount may vary depending on the location, season, and desirable human activities. The right amount of rainfall is essential for life on Earth. What are the short-term and long-term benefits of the best amount of rain for different aspects of the environment and society.
One short-term benefit of rain is that it replenishes the water cycle, which regulates the climate and weather patterns. Rain also provides fresh water for drinking, agriculture, industry, and recreation. Without enough rain, droughts can occur, leading to water shortages, crop failures, wildfires, and health problems. Of course, too much rain can cause floods, landslides, soil erosion, and water pollution.
One long-term benefit of the right amount of rain is that it supports biodiversity and ecosystem services. Rain helps plants grow and produce oxygen, food, medicine, and other resources. Rain also creates habitats for animals, bees, and microorganisms that contribute to pollination, decomposition, nutrient cycling, and pest control. Without enough rain, ecosystems can become degraded, losing their earlier functions and values.
Living or visiting a desert area can have a profound effect on thoughts about rain. After a recent rain the air smells fresher; scenic views may be clearer; and your car might be less dusty.
The scriptures address this subject wonderfully as follows:
Isaiah 55:10-13
For as the rain and the snow come down from Heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the Earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sewer and bread to the eater,
So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that for which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress, instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; and it shall be to the Lord for a memorial, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.
Psalm 65:9-13
You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it; the river of God is full of water;
you provide the people with grain, for so you have prepared it.
You water its furloughs abundantly, settling its ridges, softening it with showers, and blessing its growth.
You crown the year with your bounty; your wagon tracks overflow with richness.
The pastures of the wilderness overflow, the hills gird themselves with joy,
The meadows clothe themselves with flocks, the valleys decked themselves with grain,
they shout and sing together for joy.
07/23/23