Beauty In The Night Sky

In the rich tapestry of Tupi-Guarani mythology, the moon is beautifully referred to as Jaci. According to the legends, Guaraci, the god of the sun, eventually grew weary from his relentless shining and fell into a deep, serene sleep. During this time, the entire world was enveloped in a profound darkness. Observing this unsettling absence of light, Tupã, the revered higher god of the Tupi-Guarani who is known as the creator of everything, decided to take action. He crafted Jaci, the moon, to grace the night sky and illuminate the earth in Guaraci's slumber. Upon awakening, the sun beheld Jaci and was instantly smitten, falling deeply in love with her ethereal beauty. However, each time he attempted to gaze upon her, his radiant light caused her to vanish from view. In his desperation, Guaraci implored Tupã to create Rodá, the charming god of love, as a messenger to convey his everlasting affection for Jaci, for love transcends both darkness and light, bridging the gap between them at the break of dawn.

This enchanting tale is just one among the multitude of legends I have encountered about the moon throughout my life. The moon is surrounded by numerous stories and folklores, each carrying its own unique essence. Some tales are sweet and romantic, like the one mentioned above, while others serve as warnings or cautionary lessons. Full moons, in particular, are often regarded as an excuse for unexpected behavior; just ask any teacher! It’s a well-known fact among us that we can definitely sense when the full moon is approaching. Photographing the full moon has quickly become one of my favorite pastimes. There’s something extraordinary about capturing the beauty of an object that resides so far away in the sky. What I cherish the most when I’m out shooting the moon, however, is the incredible sense of peace that envelops me. Even amidst the bustling crowd, when I focus on the moon, a profound calmness washes over me. The moon holds a unique place in my heart; it captivates us all, inviting introspection and igniting our imagination and dreams.

Location: My backyard. Erie, Colorado