Eclipse created a rare sense of community
As we all came together, I saw many acts of kindness, Charlie Senack writes.
In a time of so much upheaval in our world, Monday's solar eclipse was a reminder that we are more connected than we think. Unfortunately, the unity we saw will likely soon be forgotten.
No matter our backgrounds or life stories, everywhere you looked, people had their eyes to the skies.
As the sun faded behind the darkness of the moon, the hustle and bustle of streets went silent. Business owners stepped out from their storefronts. Vehicles pulled over to the side of the road. In parks, kids stopped their games of soccer and basketball to witness real-life science on their day off from school. Strangers spoke to their neighbours. There was a feeling of energy, excitement and amazement.
At the mall, I witnessed shoppers stand for a few moments outside, lending their protective glasses to those who didn't have a pair. In a nearby Mcdonald's parking lot, a city worker explained what was happening to an elderly couple who gasped in awe and wonder. An enthusiastic woman recording the eclipse on her computer let a cyclist see the astonishing view through her eclipse eyewear.
These were simple acts of kindness and moments of unity and inclusion. It felt like time slowed as the shadow of the eclipse descended. Then, as the sun returned, people went back to the comfort and routine of their daily lives.
The world seems a more polarized and self-centred place than ever. Wars, conflicts, diseases and difficult economic times for so many have forced people into their own lifeboats. The eclipse created a temporary calming of the waters, and a renewed feeling of community.
As I stared up at the sky, and then around me, I saw people pause for reflection. I thought of the beauty we often miss when we don't stop to enjoy the view: a summer sunset, blooming tulips, the changing of seasons. All miraculous and mysterious gifts our world has given us — yet ones we often look past.
This total solar eclipse is a reminder, in my view, that we must all slow down and take in the beauty around us. Do good deeds, check in on your neighbours, be more selfless and share with others.
It should not take a rare celestial event to deepen our sense of community. We only live once — let's try to bring some warmth and sunshine to others.