A Firefly Ballet
Every year since I was a small girl I looked forward to the month of July. Not only was it my birthday month (since everyone knows you celebrate your birthday the entire month) but it also marked the arrival of the fireflies. All these years later I continue to celebrate the arrival of the fireflies. Every night as I sit quietly watching the twinkling lights surround me I am filled with the wonderful magic that only nature can create. Despite my hectic schedule during the day I take the time every night to simply sit and enjoy the extraordinary performance of the fireflies. The longer I sit there the more I am in awe of what these creatures are creating, it is a tapestry of light like nothing I have ever seen. It is in these moments that I realize the quiet blessings that nature brings to me every day.
I recently read an article that said we are the last generation that will see fireflies. Their numbers have declined dramatically due to light pollution (from artificial outdoor lights which drown out their mating signals), lawn chemicals which kill their larvae, and habitat loss of tall grasses and leaf litter which are being replaced with perfectly manicured lawns. Over the last several years I have left large areas of my property unmowed. Not only do the fireflies love it, all the other wildlife does as well. This is one small act that makes a huge impact on the wildlife around me. By turning off outdoor lights during the months of June and July the mating signals of the fireflies are not interrupted. Although I love the icicle lights that are lit all year round I am happy to unplug them if it helps the fireflies find the perfect mate.
The lesson that fireflies have brought into my life are to simply sit quietly. Sit in the solitude of darkness and feel the wonder and magic of life. The firefly ballet is the greatest show on earth and it is free for anyone who will watch.
Blessings and Gratitude for the Magic in Life,
Cheryl