The Awesome Storm The sky grew menacingly dark.  Ominous clouds moved swiftly.  The thunder roared distantly at first, then it rumbled overhead.  The lightning flashed and crashed disturbingly…illuminating windows…The wind gave its best efforts at breaking limbs and doubling trees.  Fragile leaves flew through the air.  The earth seemed disrobed of its dignity.  Then the rain fell in great fury, baptizing everything with its torrents of water.  But soon the dramatic scene ceased!  The sun burst forth in flaming glory Yes, I saw God wash the sky today! After He had washed it, He put a rainbow in it…a kaleidoscope of colors.  The grass shone like shimmering gems…emeralds, sapphires, diamonds.  The leaves slowly released their last drops of water.  The birds began their anthems of praise.  The tiny chameleons crept out of their miniature hiding places.  The squirrels raced up and down the trees.  It were as if everything said, "Thank You!" After the dark clouds of suffering had passed, the sky went to the beauty shop and stepped forth in fashionable attire.  Magenta, orchids, pinks, mauve, grey…a fresh, magnetizing appearance. Yes, I saw God wash the sky of all its impurities…and the earth became more beautiful!  I too felt refreshed! Maxine Tolbert Trigleth