The adage “Red at night, sailor’s delight. Red in the morning, sailor, take warning,” is one I’ve heard my entire life. Not one to question wives’ tales or adages, I never doubted the ideology behind fearing a red morning sky. After a week of hearing the weather man predict potential storms, I felt a little anxious when I saw the early, rust-colored sky just beyond the clouds.

As the day drew on, rain sprinkled, the wind blew in frequent gusts, and clouds were the dominant residents of the sky. A storm of destruction never arrived, but drizzle and cold made the day dreary. Thinking about the “Red in the morning,” part of the adage, my mind wandered to a friend of mine. This sweet friend was in my thoughts because not too long ago she told our gal pal gang that there were some flags going up in her relationship. She said they weren’t necessarily “red flags,” but definitely had a pink hue. I prayed for her and listened whenever she wanted to talk. As weeks passed, there were times when we felt like my friend and her significant other might work through their rough patches. Two weeks ago, the rough got rougher, and it was obvious the uncertainties were probably not going to go away. The relationship crumbled. I was sad for her, but so very grateful that she had us (the gal pals) to talk things through and provide support. Her emotional storm is still raging because life is just that way, but hopefully, clear skies are headed her way.

If you are in a situation where there are some red morning warnings, consider how you prepare for those cautious circumstances.

While there might not be a hurricane brewing, there could be some hurtful happenings headed your way.

Think about ways you can head off the storm, and talk with the person or maybe step away from the situation that seems to be setting off the sirens in your heart or head.

The best way to weather any storm is to surround yourself with healthy relationships and be equipped with honesty, grace, and resiliency.

I will readily admit that have sometimes ignored those red morning warnings in my own life. I got soaked in tears a time or two and raged with despair, but now I’m older, wiser, and more prepared.

Life is always throwing storms in our path, but we have the power and ability to face those floods with optimism and tenacity. Today, I encourage you to think about the issues brewing on your horizon and establish a game plan for facing those downpours.

You should also be grateful for all those beautiful red night blessings, when life is peaceful and provides something beautiful. (In my opinion, sunsets are so underrated.)

If you are in the midst of tough times, know that you are not alone. Reach out for help and find safety in those who love you and provide trust, strength, and reliability.

If you are a sailor, thank you for this lovely adage and the chance to use it for Intentergy.

By: Melanie A. Peters

P.S. Does anyone have an umbrella?