It is great that at last, we are getting beautiful sunshine and blue skies. It is something we haven’t seen for a while. We have had non-stop rain for many months and farmers were especially feeling the pinch. But this week on so many farms the cattle are now out grazing. It is a lovely sight and another visible sign that spring is here.

In some parts of the world they do not have the farming sheds that are found in many modern farms. Studies have been done to find out what cattle survive best when left outdoors. When the harsh weather hits with plunging temperatures and biting cold winds, cattle will always head for shelter. Most cattle turn their backs to the icy winds and walk away until they find shelter. Sometimes this does not always work out and if the harsh conditions continue there are inevitable casualties.

But there is a breed of cattle called Herefords who do the complete opposite and studies worldwide have shown how resilient they are. They head directly into the wind and stand shoulder to shoulder facing a storm. They keep their heads down until the storm passes. By keeping their heads down they protect their eyes and ears. They reduce heat loss by facing the storm rather than have their backs to it. In nearly all cases they survive. The lesson from the Hereford breed of cattle is to face life’s storms head on.

There are so many other storms that we feel too like the current war in Iran. It has pushed up the prices of petrol, diesel and home heating. That is being felt by many. But it is the constant drip feed of negative news that is not good for our physical, mental or spiritual health. So the message is we stand together, we face the storm which will pass, we protect and help each other. We also pray for strength and courage during this difficult time. Enjoy the weather too. Get outside for a walk if you can. There are signs of spring all around us. Notice them, enjoy them and let them bring some lovely balance into our lives.