The Orionid Meteor Shower was everywhere—on Facebook, on the news, and in conversations following the promise of up to 20 shooting stars in a single night
I’ve always loved the night sky. Growing up on 80 acres in the country, it was the perfect place for stargazing. I’d lie on the grass for hours, marveling at shooting stars, planes, and whatever else my imagination conjured—often convinced some were UFOs.
So here I sit, decades later, with a strong desire to see the shooting stars, and I plan to make a wish on each one. I got up at 5 a.m., while it was still quiet and dark, made my coffee, and made my way to my patio.
Of course, it would’ve been lovely to watch from a boat on a calm sea, a wraparound porch in the countryside, or by a peaceful lake with a cool fall breeze. But that’s not my reality. Instead, I sit on my apartment patio, surrounded by bright streetlights, passing cars, and my neighbor’s patio lights.. Yet, despite the light pollution, I still see the sky, still feel the crisp morning air on my skin, and still catch glimpses of stars.
As I sipped my coffee and gazed upward, gratitude filled my heart—for my life, with all its ups and downs; for my family; for the simple beauty that surrounds us; and the gift of this quiet moment beneath the night sky.
Did I see twenty shooting stars? No. Ten? Five? No. But I saw one—a single, beautiful shooting star. And one was enough. For that, I am truly thankful.
Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective to unlock the true joy life has to offer. Dwelling on what we lack or cannot change often robs us of the happiness that life presents. By refocusing our outlook—embracing what we can change and accepting what we cannot—we open ourselves to a deeper, more lasting joy that enriches every aspect of our lives.
God Bless You On This Journey!
KathieyV