Wind

February 19th

Of all the nature and weather phenomena, there is only one that I hate, and I cannot deal with it. I can manage the heat, the cold, the rain, the storms, the drought, or occasional flooding. Yes, you guessed it — I cannot stand the wind (the clue was all the time in the title of this post).

But seriously. Now we are experiencing several storms hitting Europe at the same time, and the situation is quite difficult. Things are flying around everywhere. Small branches, especially in my garden. Trees bow down almost to a breaking point. Electrical power comes and goes, and the internet connection with it. I feel in danger, actually. I went out for quick shopping this morning and the gusts were already strong, forcing me to lean forward and be careful about where I was going. The stiff wind would get underneath my jacket and chill me to the bone. Time after time there were physically unpleasant smacks across my face from the gale blow.

I am watching my garden and my trees now, quite nervous. I hope that everything stays in place and there is no damage to my home or to the neighbors’ property. That only shows how insignificant we are in the face of nature’s fury. Solid walls, mature trees, modern electrical grid — all that can fail at any moment with those sustained storm winds. And there is nothing we can do about it. Nature puts us in our proper place. And any thoughts about how humankind can dominate the environment go out with the wind.