Waiting is Hard

We've all been in situations where we are required to wait for something important. We find our ability to concentrate, to do anything useful, to go about our regular business as futile.

There's a heaviness and a quietness in the air before a storm. We pace back and forth looking at the sky. A few flashes on the horizon, a temperature drop, and the trees stir with a sudden cool breeze. The first large drops splat on the hot sidewalk and we hesitate. A few more and we glance at the refuge behind us. When the deluge finally lets loose we run for cover and watch as the pavement dances with the shower. It may be the longed-for rain to end a drought, or a violent wind storm that threatens our safety. Either way, once it comes there is relief because there is something to do--if nothing more than to rejoice at the cleansing downpour and marvel at the power of the wind and lightning.

Waiting for labor pains, waiting for a job interview, waiting for news from the hospital, waiting for a loved one's return, waiting for a decision. Aniticipation is hard.