We can’t choose everything in life, but we can choose what kind of person we want to be.

As we deal with storms across the country and unprecedented blizzard watches here in Southern California, consider the importance of rain. Rain can be like encouragement, bringing nourishment and rebirth to dry parched land. It can promote an abundance of life and energy.

But, in excess, rain can cause flooding and landslides. It can sweep people away into rushing water and leave the landscape devastated.

Our words have the same power. We can be supportive and encouraging, fostering life and vitality in those we engage with. Or we can be harsh and critical, pessimistic and judgmental. Our words can both heal and wound. Our choice.

We can choose to be encouraging and supportive, rather than bleak and pessimistic.

We can avoid being the person who rains on someone else’s parade.