Starry, Starry Nights: And Those Wild Lights

We recently witnessed a spectacular expression of the Northern Lights. They lasted for several days and were visible to the naked eye throughout much of the northern portion of the US. I’ve always loved the night sky. I was fascinated by an astronomy class in college. It was enjoyable to discover the many constellations and learn their names. The formation of stars and comets and the activity of the sun continue to intrigue me.

Counting satellites on camping trips was a beloved family activity. Meteor showers were icing on the cake. One summer, when my children were young, my husband and I read their requested bedtime stories and tucked the littles in. We then had a "date" where we went out and slept on the trampoline during a forecasted meteor shower. I recall whispered conversations while holding hands, watching with awe the random streaks in the inky sky above. However, because we were so excited to have time alone, we forgot to check the actual weather forecast and woke up, predawn, very soggy in a heavy rain shower. The memories!

I don’t pretend to be a talented photographer, barely passable, even, but I got one shot, during this recent event, with brilliant magenta, superimposed over the Big Dipper. It was certainly a night to remember. The phrase from the Bible, the heavens declare His handiwork, held beautiful new meaning as we watched the sky dance and whisper with color.

The vignettes of nights spent stargazing with loved ones string together like the infinite constellations of the night sky. Camping trips. Backyard hangouts. Night swims at the lake. The mysteries and the magic of the night sky are worth exploring. Add sleeping bags, a trampoline, and an unexpected rain shower and you've got a date worth remembering.