Chasing the Moon

Last night I experienced something pretty spectacular – a full moon lunar eclipse. It was the first lunar eclipse that I’ve actually made time to see in years. And I don’t know why it took me so long to set up an alarm and watch the magic of the Universe.

Of course, things didn’t go exactly according to plan.

I didn’t do my research, and assumed that the moon would be high enough in the sky for to see from my house (it wasn’t). I was also under the impression that I had mere minutes to witness this eclipse (I was wrong) and after frantically downloading an app called Sky View, which shows you the location of constellations, planets, stars and the moon in the sky, I realised that I had two options: miss another eclipse, or get in my car and drive.

I went with option two, and left my boyfriend at home (dinner was on the stove, talk about timing) to chase the moon.

It felt wild and spontaneous and I can’t remember the last time I felt so delighted with a split decision. I followed my gut and it led me to watching an incredible eclipse. One that I literally chased down the highway, seeking a stretch of land that wasn’t obscured by industrial estates.

The moon itself was enormous, a glowing orb that shimmered amongst the clouds. I tried capturing the magic on my phone, and of course it did no justice. After driving for a good 15 minutes, stopping and starting and gasping and smiling, I found a driveway that offered me a spectacular view.

The chase was over. The moon was illuminated by the sun and I was illuminated with childlike glee. I checked for timelines on my phone and discovered it would remain this way for hours.

I wish I could say I sat in my car and contemplated life and went into deep reflection, but instead I was mesmerised. I let myself be completely in the moment, drinking in this cosmic brilliance, and for a few moments, forgot everything.

I was no longer a business owner, or a woman soon turning 26, or a human stressing about money, or an adult with dinner on the stove. I was a being, connecting with another marvel of the Universe. It was a moment I hope to never forget.

Love, Viv