October 12, 2024

“She looked directly up into the Northern Lights and she wondered if those cold-burning specters might not draw her breath, her very soul, out of her chest and into the stars.” – Eowyn Ivey The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, offer a breathtaking display of natural beauty characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic movements across the night sky. ...

“She looked directly up into the Northern Lights and she wondered if those cold-burning specters might not draw her breath, her very soul, out of her chest and into the stars.” – Eowyn Ivey

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, offer a breathtaking display of natural beauty characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic movements across the night sky. Shades of green, pink, purple, and red swirl and dance, often forming arcs, bands, or curtains of light that ripple and shift with the atmospheric conditions.

This phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. The intensity and colors of the auroras vary, influenced by solar activity and the altitude of the interactions. In remote areas far from artificial light, the Northern Lights can be seen illuminated against a backdrop of a starry sky, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

The movement of the auroras can be both gentle and dramatic, with flickering patterns or elongated beams that stretch across vast expanses. The experience of witnessing this celestial event is enhanced by the quiet of the surroundings, evoking a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of nature. Each sighting is unique, leaving a lasting impression of the earth’s natural artistry.

Thursday evening I was blessed, along with all of you, to actually see the Northern Lights in Mississippi County. Admitting, we had to look through the lens of a camera, but it was still amazing. My husband and I took a drive out to the  Mississippi River and watched the lights dance above the waters. It was pure magic. I wondered if Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn ever saw the Northern Lights.

On the way back to town, I couldn’t resist taking a walk through a cotton field. I must admit my photos did not do justice to the breathtaking view through my lens. I could actually see the array of colors from deep purple to rich green to bright scarlett all dancing above the gorgeous field of white cotton.

I feel blessed to have experienced such a magical time with my husband. I had never felt so close to God. However, I must admit, the lights have not been taken off my bucket list. I still want very much to simply stand, with no camera in hand, and experience the lights all around me. I think a trip is in order....

Sandra Brand is the editor of the NEA Town Courier and The Osceola Times. She may be reached by phone at 870-763-4461 or 870-563-2615 or by email at brand@osceolatimes.com.

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