A Contemplation of the Moon
Something that is new for me moving from a city to New Hampshire to serve with AmeriCorps, is almost absolute darkness at night. Full darkness at night is a special treat when I am camping. When located in close proximity to each other, some areas may experience something called light pollution. This is not like your typical pollution where there may be rubbish on the ground, but rather pollution to our skies and eyes. There are street lights on at night and businesses open at all times in cities. Last night was a new moon, and it was dark. When I looked at the night sky, the stars in every direction overwhelmed me without the moon to overshine them. Then I remembered something I learned from indigenous cultures. This darkness does not have to be scary. This new moon could symbolize transformation and renewal, it is a time to reflect. How wonderful is it to think that nature is pausing to renew itself.
In one week, on the night of February 12, we will have a full moon called the Snow Moon. This was named with the hope that this will be our last full moon during the winter. It is a time some like to shed old habits picked up during the winter season and find new beginnings for the spring to come. Like streaming an entire season of Squid Game over a weekend since there is not as much daylight. Here at the SLA, we will be hosting a full moon walk to appreciate this new light.
How do animals behave during a new or full moon? Although it can affect things such as mating or migration, it also significantly impacts light exposure at night. Smaller animals such as hares are not as active during a full moon because predators are more likely to see them. However, nocturnal birds rely on a full moon to signal when to leave and what direction to fly. Deer are equally present during a full and new moon, but hide during moon risings and settings. I doubt the animals are taking time to reflect on their bad habits picked up since Thanksgiving.
This Full Snow Moon, what will I be leaving in winter and what are my intentions for this coming spring? I would like to give thanks to the moon to remind me to examine my current lifestyle and hold myself accountable. I hope that the surrounding area will continue to protect their air and prevent light pollution from entering here. I want further generations to have the opportunity to look at the stars. It was not until I was serving here with the AmeriCorps that I found darkness like this. The moon is trying to remind me that winter may be dark with shorter days, but it is never dark in spirit. As the birds fly towards the rising moon, could you try and give thanks for the darkness?
Fay is a full-timer serving with the Squam Lakes Association working on water quality conservation. Learn more about Fay here.