Total Eclipse of the Sun
by Chris Petry
On April, 8th, this year, a total solar eclipse will pass over the North American continent. Now, what is a total solar eclipse and why should you care? A total solar eclipse is achieved when the moon lines up directly between the Earth and the Sun, and despite being infinitesimally smaller than the Sun, temporarily blocks it from view on Earth.
You may remember that the last time this happened, on August 21st, 2017, people everywhere were selling special eye-protectorate glasses so viewers could have a safe and direct view of the rare celestial event. You might also recall what you saw. Which, depending on where you were, could have ranged from a partial blotting of the sun to a few minutes of total darkness in daytime. This time, residents of Nazas, Mexico will experience nearly 4.5 minutes of perpetual darkness. How cool is that?
Why is this infrequent but relatively ordinary occurrence being so heavily hyped by the mainstream media, as well as on social platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter? Why not? With all the disagreement and division in the world today, this is a rare unifying event where everyone can gather, observe and appreciate a moment of existential grandeur. The vastness and scale of the universe is humbling, to say the least. That realization has a way of grounding us by reminding us that no matter how daunting our days can be, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem, it means very little in the grand scheme of things. We’re barely a footnote in the book of the cosmos.
Don’t let that make you feel small, however! Use that knowledge to your advantage by maximizing your time and efforts. For instance, if you’ve been delaying homeownership, now might be the time to get serious. Speak to a REALTOR from your local branch of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty to get things going. If you’ve been putting off selling for one reason or another, it might be time to do so. If you need more space or less space or there’s a career opportunity worth pursuing, it might be time to make the move.
Come April, when you’re staring up at the Total Solar Eclipse in the sky, don’t be afraid to allow the majesty of the moment to precipitate a much-needed change here on Earth. The moment is yours. Seize it.
