April Showers Bring May Flowers

(Written by Josh; Level: Advanced)

　　From the golden-tipped fields of mid-west America to the ancient kingdoms of verdant Palestine, there is a happy truth to be shared with all who would take heed. In more recent times, this truth has been expressed as: April showers bring May flowers. This is a truth that promises light bursting from darkness, strength born from weakness and, if one dares to believe, life emerging from death.

　　Farmers all over the world know the importance and immutability of the seasons. They know that there is a season to plant and a season to harvest; everything must be done in its own time. Although the rain pours down with the utmost relentlessness, ceasing all outdoor activities, the man of the field lifts his face to the heavens and smiles. Despite the inconvenience, he knows that the rain provides the nourishment his crops need to grow and flourish. The torrential rains in the month of April, give rise to the glorious flowers in the month of May.

　　But this ancient truth applies to more than the crops of the fields; it is an invaluable message of hope to all who experience tragedy in life. A dashed relationship with one can open up the door to a brand new friendship with another. A lost job here can provide the opportunity for a better job there. A broken dream can become the foundation of a wonderful future. Everything has its place.

　　Remember this: overwhelming darkness may endure for a night, but it will never overcome the radiant light of the morning. When you are in a season of sorrow, hang in there, because a season of joy may be just around the corner…
　　
　　从美国中西部金色的田野，到巴勒斯坦嫩绿色的古老疆土，那些留心观察的人共享着同一个快乐真理。近来这一真理被阐述为：四月的雨带来五月的花。这一真理预示光明会从黑暗中迸发；刚强生自软弱；如果你敢确信，生命会从死亡中萌发！

　　全世界的农民们都明白季节的重要性和永恒性。他们知道在哪个季节播种，哪个季节收获，每件事都必须应时而做！虽然暴雨无情地倾盆而下，迫使所有的户外劳作停止，但土地的主人会仰天微笑。尽管有诸多不便，但是他知道，雨会为他的庄稼带来繁茂生长所需的营养。四月里的豪雨，会带来五月里的繁花似锦。

　　但是这一古老真理并不只适用于田里的庄稼，它还是那些正经历着人生磨难的人的无限希冀：一段友谊的受挫会开启另一段崭新友谊的大门；此处失去的工作会提供彼处更好的工作机会；一个梦想的破灭会成为美好未来的基石。万物皆有道！

　　请谨记：势不可挡的黑暗或有一晚，但它永远无法阻挡清晨的万丈光芒！当你正处于悲伤之季，请坚持住，因为欢乐的季节也许马上就会到来……