Sentence:  We've observed plenty of strikings followed by <WSD>lightings</WSD>, so even if we should not say that the strikings cause the lightings, isn't it at least reasonable to predict, and to believe, that the next time we strike a match in similar conditions, it will be followed by a lighting? 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  The act of activating such equipment, or of igniting a flame etc.