Fire in the Sky

As a little Stewie I used to run away fast and unexpected – much to everyone’s pleasure, but even more to my granny’s dismay.To halt me she simply yelled “Onweer!” (Thunderstorm!) and I’d be standing still as if someone yanked my ear to stop me abruptly.

This caused me not liking this wonderful and natural phenomenon – I didn’t like the flash, and most certainly hated the thunderblast coming after it. I had been afraid of thunderstorms for about 35/36 years, but the big turningpoint was last year.

During a late afternoon/early evening’s thunderstorm, the sunny afternoon was smuthered in the ruff by an upcoming thunderstorm. I could literally see the clouds moving in – a spectacular sight it was!

While everything became slightly darker, I stood in front of my window, shouting at my neighbour (at the opposite side of the street) that he really should get down from that roof as a thundestorm was coming up. He shouted back at me: but look at that, how could you be afraid of something as beautiful as that?

I peeked outside and … wow.

Simply wow.

Nature showed all of her glorious and devastating powers, flashing and rumbling she came.

I felt comfortable. Thunderstorms are beautiful. So is the lightning. And the rumble that comes afterwards.

The thunderstorm itself lasted for about 45 minutes – but I was amazed. Looked outside, trying to chase lightning across the sky. Found them. Cherished them. Loved them.

And that’s how my fear of thunderstorms ended. I still don’t like being on a bike or walking outside while being surprised by an unexpected thunderstorm.

But right now I’m fine. And I’m sooo happy with this particular shot!

Goodnight everyone, sleep tight, and Welcome to My World.

Fire in the Sky, originally uploaded by Stewart Leiwakabessy. 1st June, 2008, ©Stewart Leiwakabessy

Leave a Reply