Solar Eclipse

A full solar eclipse occurred less than 24 hrs ago in some of the most populated places on Earth and for many, it was once in a lifetime event. Prior to the occurrence, much media attention has been given to this rare natural phenomenon as it will be the longest full eclipse of the century lasting a full 6 mins, providing lots of hype and excitement in anticipation of its coming.

Although it was a rare event, an event that allows the scientists to better study the outer rims of the Sun but there were even more happenings beyond the walls of the scientific world. Speculations from astrologers and fortune tellers predicting disasters and calamities, common folk readying themselves to perform rituals necessary to ward off evil or enhance the good fortune that can be brought about by this natural event. All these brought about with the sole reason that people are ignorant. Ignorance gave rise to the fears and these fears were being played upon.

Sad enough to say, disaster did strike during the eclipse. At least an Indian woman has been reported to have died during the stampede with several others left injured when thousands rushed to witness the phenomenon on the banks of River Ganges.

This is where i found it somewhat saddening. People reading so much into a natural phenomenon, so much to the extend that they are reading signs that are non-existing, building fears where there should be none and placing false hopes where it should not be. They have placed too much importance to something material and transient and in the process forgetten about their own internal cultivation.

I was somewhat reminded of a little story that i read some years back. A teacher asked the class of students, "Children, can you name me the 7 wonders of the world?" One child stood up and said, " They are Chichen Itza, Christ the Redeemer, Colosseum, Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, Petra, Taj Mahal and Giza Pyramid Complex." "Very well done" the teacher replied. A little girl stood up and said, "Sir but aren't the 7 wonders the ability to see, to hear, to speak, to touch, to taste, to smell and to breathe?"

Sometimes in the midst of so much excitement, we forget that the most wondrous phenomenon is the ability to live and breathe in the present moment and cherish all the real gifts we are bestowed with. So my dear friends, let us take a deep breathe right now, let go of everything and just relish in this intake of fresh air, to enjoy this present living moment. =)