【puddles】In the quiet aftermath of a storm, the world seems to hold its breath. Rain has long since ceased, but the earth is still damp, and the air carries the scent of wet soil and fresh beginnings. It’s in these moments that puddles become more than just waterlogged depressions on the pavement—they transform into mirrors of the sky, reflections of the soul, and portals to forgotten memories.

Puddles are often overlooked, dismissed as mere obstacles or nuisances. But for those who pause, they offer a glimpse into something deeper. The way light dances across their surface, the ripples created by a passing breeze, the tiny world they contain—each one is a universe in itself. A single drop of rain can create a ripple that echoes through the entire puddle, reminding us that even the smallest actions have consequences.

Children, with their unfiltered curiosity, know this well. They jump into puddles not just for fun, but to feel connected to the world around them. To splash is to embrace the moment, to let go of worry and simply be present. In their eyes, a puddle is not a mess—it’s an adventure waiting to happen.

Yet, puddles also carry a sense of melancholy. They remind us of the fleeting nature of things. A puddle may appear after a storm, but it won’t last forever. It will evaporate under the sun, or be washed away by the next downpour. Like so many things in life, it exists only for a brief moment, yet leaves a lasting impression.

There’s a beauty in that impermanence. Puddles teach us to appreciate what we have while we have it. They remind us that not everything needs to be permanent to be meaningful. A puddle may not last, but its presence can inspire wonder, joy, or even a moment of quiet reflection.

So the next time you see a puddle, don’t just step over it. Take a moment to look at it. Let your mind wander. Perhaps you’ll find something unexpected—maybe a memory, a feeling, or a new perspective. After all, sometimes the simplest things hold the deepest truths.