April showers bring May flowers

What is the weather like in April in Hong Kong? Warm, humid and foggy? In Britain, April is typically a wet and soggy month. However, British weather is so unpredictable that even the month of April in early spring can change from rainy to snowy within a day. That is why British people like to talk about the weather in their daily conversations. 

Young British children may hear their grandparents say, “April showers bring flowers in May”, to encourage them not to be disappointed but to look forward to brighter and sunny weather with optimistic hope. 

The idea of this proverb was pioneered by a British poet, Geoffrey Chaucer, in the 14th century. In his writing, “The Canterbury Tales”, Chaucer said that April’s showers go through March’s drought and bathe the roots with water, which produces flowers. 

Later in 1557, Thomas Tusser, an English poet and farmer, wrote a poem: 

Sweet April showers 

Do spring May flowers 

These poetic verses appeared as an old English proverb, first recorded in 1846. 

“March winds and April showers bring forth May flowers.” 

Nowadays, in English-speaking countries, the shorter version “April showers bring May flowers” has become a common expression. It also carries a deeper meaning that even unpleasant and gloomy things can bring about delightful and joyful experiences. 

In a couple of weeks, Christians will celebrate Easter（復活節）. Remember to trust Jesus who will guide us to overcome obstacles and look at the bright side of life. As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers” （四月雨帶來五月花；否極泰來）.