EYE OF THE STORM

In the Eye, Wrightsville Beach, NC

June marks the official beginning of the hurricane season, especially for the eastern Atlantic coast. Present day satellite systems now provide us with some fascinating images of the large circular systems that generally include a distinct eye at the center of these strong cyclones. At the storm’s height the eye can be very symmetric, but it becomes oblong and ragged as the storm weakens. This calm eye is characterized by light winds and clear skies, but the surrounding eyewall is composed of towering thunderstorms where most of the severe weather occurs. The barometric pressure in the eye can be fifteen degrees lower than the outer wall. It is typically 20-40 miles across in distance which implies that a direct hit by one of these phenoms of nature can bring extreme weather conditions, followed by a period of relative calm in the eye, followed by more violent winds as the opposite eyewall passes over.

It seems that life itself can be characterized by these weather systems. We can be overcome by the leading edge of an approaching eyewall before the calm eye enters our life to help right the ship. And just as we get comfortable with life, we get blindsided by the opposite eyewall. When we’re in the midst of these calm eyes, we need to use the opportunity to give thanks and focus on recharging our batteries in preparation for the next eyewall. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take full advantage of the calmness and live fully in that serene moment, we just need to guard against the complacency of being lulled into the misdirected perception that it will never pass. The winds of life are always in motion.