We were fortunate to witness the Annular Solar Eclipse (ASE) on October 14, 2023, just a few minutes before noon Central Daylight Time. According to NASA, “During an ASE, the moon appears slightly smaller than the sun, so it can’t block the entire surface. The result is a beautiful ‘ring of fire.’” Although we were not in the direct path of the phenomenon (a few hundred miles east of the maximum coverage of the “ring of fire”), we enjoyed it and were amazed by the interplay of light through the leaves of the trees.
We last had such an opportunity in 2012 when an ASE followed an almost identical path, stretching from Oregon through northern California, northeast Nevada, central Utah, northeast Arizona, southwest Colorado, central New Mexico, and southern Texas. It is not uncommon, but it is rare to witness it multiple times (due to the narrow path of annularity, which is 118 to 137 miles (190 to 220 kilometers) wide).
Armed with NASA-approved solar eclipse glasses, we did not stare at the eclipse for its entire duration but stole more glances as it peaked. When we weren’t looking up, we were looking around. What a sight it was! One that does not require protective glasses. Objects like trees and bushes help create natural “pinhole” lenses, projecting numerous mini crescents on the ground and walls, known as “crescent shadows.”
During an eclipse, not every ray of light can pass through to the ground, leaving only the rays at a certain angle to reach it. As the surroundings change when a solar eclipse reaches its peak, colors lose contrast, and shadows become much sharper. The photo leading this post reflects that occurrence – at first glance, it looks like a pile of feathers on the ground.
Different cultural, mythological, and spiritual meanings are attributed to events such as a solar eclipse. In ancient times, an eclipse often instilled fear and the belief that the world would end.
Myths and folklore are filled with stories of the Sun and the Moon battling each other or being attacked by some creature, with Earth invariably facing destruction. Many parts of the world believe that a solar eclipse can cause sickness and plagues and trigger utterly unfavorable, if not harmful, events.
Even in the 21st century, human behavior is influenced by a solar eclipse. Just 13 years ago, some people refused to go outdoors or eat or would burst into tears for no reason other than the uncomfortable “air” and “darkness.”
I have a different perspective on such celestial or cosmic events. I view them as opportunities to pause and reflect. Lunar eclipses, solar eclipses, supermoons, and new moons are transformative experiences – I find myself attuned to the idea of renewal, using those moments to reflect and release burdens and painful memories.
I set intentions, visualize, and focus on the changes I must make and the creations I desire. This process augments the natural energy transformation around me, converting it into sustenance for the soul. If it is true that whenever we seek clarity and a new path, we must leave behind the old one, then there is no better time than to attune ourselves to nature. The cyclical nature of life, the interconnectedness of all things, and the power of nature remind me that I am both matter and energy.
Following the annular solar eclipse a week ago, my determination and resolve to pursue a fiercely voracious path took shape. There is no time like the present, as the saying goes. Societal constructs, alarming regressions in humanity, and a burden of emotions that has run its course are all left behind. It is no longer about fitting in but about belonging. A total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024 (170 days from now); at that time, we will be in the path of totality for 3 minutes and 52 seconds. I look forward to reflecting meaningfully on what this interval will hold between now and then.
What a wonderful experience that solar eclipse must have been. Your words paint a vivid picture for me. ❤️