Must find shade!

We have a black car and the temperature difference between parking in a sunny spot and a shady spot is huge as far as comfort is concerned. Add to it the windshield umbrella contraption Tom bought and it’s even more noticeable how shade helps fight heat.

June in Florida begins at the tail end of our dry season. Rain is a hit or miss occurrence compared to our normal Summer afternoon thunderstorms. Today was dry and hot–so hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk.

As I considered the difference shade makes on such days, it made me wonder how much I offer needed shade to Tom in times of circumstantial drought.

Drought in marriage happens as often as the seasons in a calendar year.

Some examples of drought are sickness, financial strains, relational conflict at work or with extended family, parenting issues, unemployment, on-going care for elderly relatives, to name a few. We have had quite a few of these drought-like conditions in our marriage the last few years.

We can learn something from the cool of the shade.

The temperature difference from sun to shade can be upwards of 25 degrees or more. Add a little breeze and hot days can actually feel comfortable.

What are some ways we can provide shade to our spouse when they’re feeling the heat?

1. Listen to what’s on their mind without interrupting – this allows the hot air to escape.
2. Be cool and even-tempered even if you’ve had a difficult day – this invites the cooler air in.
3. Protect your schedule and give space for down time – this blocks the heat from penetrating through the windows.
4. Provide a cool drink – this is like taking full advantage of the car’s air-conditioner.
5. Pray without ceasing – this is like a cool rain as it hits the car and it cools faster than any other method. It reveals our dependence on God to help us in our weakness.

Summer is here. Let’s make the best of it and help each other be comfortable no matter the temperature outside.