What does the phrase "A ray of sunshine", really mean? Here, for Noah, it all begins with attending a parkrun.
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It had been a quiet few weeks for Noah. He'd often feel lonely, especially on weekends, when it became apparent to him that everyone else had people to go out and spend time with.
Later one week, during one sunny evening, he sat quietly on the bench in his garden, scrolled on his phone, coming across Parkrun as he did so. He seemed reluctant, as he wasn’t sure what to expect. A couple of days later it was Saturday. Early that morning he lay in bed, wondering whether or not to go. But, he decided to go and give it a try, realising he had nothing to lose.
At the park, Noah noticed his neighbour, Anna, who was already warming up. She saw him and waved him over.
Anna: “Hi there, Noah! I never knew you came to parkrun.”
Noah: “I thought I'd just try it out. It's my first time. I usually walk on my own, but I thought I’d just come along and see what it’s like here. I've been lonely these last few weeks.”
Anna: “Good for you. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.”
They started the run together. Volunteers clapped as they passed along the way, while other walkers smiled or said phrases like “Well done!”, "Keep going", and "You're almost there".
The cheerfulness surprised Noah, and made him feel welcome. He wasn’t used to strangers being so friendly.
After they finished, Noah and Anna sat on a bench, catching their breath.
Noah: “People kept saying this was a ‘ray of sunshine.’ I'm not really sure I get it. The sun wasn’t even out much today.”
Anna: smiling “No, it doesn’t mean the actual sun. ‘A ray of sunshine’ is an idiom, one of those phrases that doesn't mean exactly what it says. It’s when something or someone makes life feel brighter or happier, especially if things have felt lonely or sad.”
Noah: thinking “So, it was like how parkrun made me feel today? It actually felt nice.”
Anna: “Yes, exactly. That feeling was your ray of sunshine.”
Noah briefly look around. He couldn't help but notice chatting runners and walkers, some laughing, smiling, and some even high-fiving. He was already looking forward to more running events.
What moments have been your 'Rays of Sunshine'? Why not feel free to share them in the comments section below?
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