April Showers Bring May Flowers
We most likely have all heard the phrase, “April showers bring May flowers.” Maybe on April first, you had a friend or family member who immediately sang, “April showers bring May flowers!” Maybe you’ve heard the catch phrase in a commercial, show, movie or book. According to Juan Cabrera, “The saying actually originates from the United Kingdom. For the residents in the UK, April serves as a soggy month, with a cool consistent temperature. The low temperatures push back the appearance of flowers blooming, and usually these residents have to wait till May to see their gardens and flowers spring back to life.” We may hear this phrase all the time, whether it’s in the beginning of April or beginning of May, or any time in between. The real question is, do we know what this expression really means, and the deeper interpretation behind it?
The month of April seems to be looked at as a rainy month. The following month, May, is known to be when the sun begins to shine and the flowers start to bloom. The rainy April days help to nourish the earth, leading to the blossoming of flowers and plants in May. Although the rainy showers can be seen as dreary and dull, they’re really preparing the world for all that will bloom in May. Without the rain, the soil wouldn’t get the water it needs. We need the “April showers” in order to experience the “May flowers”!
This classic phrase serves as an important metaphor. The metaphor symbolizes resilience and hope. Just as rain helps our earth to grow, hardship can help us to grow, as well. Through setbacks or lows in life, it can feel difficult to see the good that lies ahead or to maintain a positive mindset. You may feel like the world is against you. Maybe you’re feeling lonely, lost, or confused in life. You may feel caught in a storm that feels like it’s never going to end. This metaphor can help us to remember that flowers are about to bloom, and this melancholy feeling will pass. The storm will end, and the sun will rise again, and you will smile!
You are not alone in these dark or stormy feelings, and it’s important to remind yourself that. Everyone goes through struggles and hardships, no matter who they are or where they come from. When you have these dark or stormy thoughts, it’s easy to feel alone in your storm. It’s important to remind yourself you are not facing this life alone…Think about it this way: Everyone in your life is also experiencing the month of April. You are not alone and do not hesitate to reach out to loved ones or counseling if you do feel this way. SEW Balance offers accessible, affordable, and actionable support for combatting these feelings and becoming the best version of yourself. Download the mobile app and see just how life changing showing up for yourself can be!
April showers can serve as a reminder that there’s brighter days ahead. The phrase “April showers bring May flowers” helps you to be patient, hopeful, optimistic, and fully prepared for your blossoming future that lies ahead of you!
By Virginia Shea