I often find myself uttering a prayer-like request, “Source of the Divine, may I run with the stars when I depart this earth,” especially on clear nights.
There is a profound love within me for gazing into the night sky and marveling at the stars. It is astonishing to think that there are approximately 200 billion trillion stars in the vast universe, some visible to the naked eye while others remain hidden. In reality, depending on the sky conditions, we can observe anywhere between 2,600 and 4,500 stars. Our ancestors had it much easier in terms of stargazing, as they were not burdened by the extensive light pollution that plagues our modern world. Sadly, around 80 percent of humanity is impacted by this issue, and it continues to worsen, growing at a rate of nearly 10% each year.
The opportunity to bask in the beauty of the celestial heavens is gradually being eroded by the intrusion of artificial light. I can’t help but envy those who came before us, as I can only imagine the overwhelming awe they experienced while beholding the unfiltered and unrestricted cosmos.
Seeing the Big Picture from the Heavenly Precipice
Star gazing serves as a form of mental health therapy as it offers us a new perspective on the challenges we face in life. Whether our troubles are trivial or significant, when we compare them to the grandeur of the universe, they seem less overwhelming. By immersing ourselves in the vastness and beauty of the cosmos, we momentarily let go of our fixation on our problems. In this state of mindfulness, we experience emotions of peace and wonder, replacing the stress we were feeling.
This connection to the Divine takes root within us, enabling us to recognize that in the grand scheme of things (and what better representation of the grand scheme than the universe itself?), everything will eventually be okay. Even if a particular problem doesn’t turn out the way we desire, we can find solace in accepting it with peace (“not my will, but Thy will be done,” as expressed in the Lord’s prayer).
Through the practice of mindfulness, we learn to adopt a broader perspective, enabling us to see things in their proper context. During meditation, I visualize myself observing from above. Gradually, I ascend higher and higher, catching sight of the roof of my house. Continuing upwards, I behold my neighborhood, ascending further until I find myself in space, gazing down at the state of California, peacefully suspended. This experience reminds me of my insignificance, yet paradoxically, it brings a sense of tranquility, as I realize I am but a tiny part of a vast world floating within the immense void of space. No words are spoken, yet I feel a profound reassurance, that everything will be ok. This evokes the words of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor, who likely grappled with mental turmoil while facing the ravages of war and a pandemic, as expressed in his journal, Meditations. He states,
Fly with the stars in their courses, and swim among the ever-changing elements in their fluid transmutations. Imaginings like these will wash away the filth and grime of this earthbound existence.
He was not referring to the physical presence of mud on clothing. Marcus was describing the emotional turmoil of anxiety, frustration, and sadness that can diminish our happiness within. By embracing a broader perspective, you can soar amidst the celestial bodies, recognizing that your essence is not bound to your physical form.
Through the practice of mindfulness, you can envision yourself as a star, or even run alongside them, and witness the vast expanse of the cosmos as your personal playground. This can be done at any time, simply by taking a few moments to breathe, closing your eyes, and metaphorically transporting yourself into the universe. There is nothing that can hinder you from embarking on this journey.
See the big picture when faced with problems
I need to consistently keep my focus on the bigger picture when confronted with problems. One night, I was feeling distressed after discussing a sensitive family matter with my wife. It was then that she reminded me to consider the long-term perspective. She asked, “Will this issue still be relevant a year from now?” Without hesitation, I answered “no.” Her question brought this fundamental concept to the forefront of my mind, and I began to shift away from my anxious thoughts.
It is important for us to constantly remind ourselves of the various challenges we have faced in the past and how we have utilized reason to overcome them. Take a moment to think about a problem you may have had a year ago. While there may be a few ongoing issues, the majority of the challenges we encounter tend to fade away over time. Often, the passage of time brings healing and resolution to these problems (though not always).
When we gaze up at the stars, we not only contemplate the vastness of space but also the unstoppable march of time itself. The light that reaches our eyes from those stars has traveled for billions of years. Time is akin to watching an old house in a movie, gradually succumbing to the forces of its environment. Eventually, the dilapidated house becomes obscured by the encroaching vegetation. Similarly, time represents constant change, and we must be aware of the present moment, knowing that time will eventually transform everything in our lives, including the problems we currently face.
Look up in the sky before dawn, advised the Pythagoreans, and meditate on the constellations that are constant in their relations with one another and unswerving in their duty—orderly, pure, and naked (for no star wears a veil). – Marcus Aurelius
Our Heavenly Origins
We come from a celestial origin. It has been suggested that we are made up of stardust, a notion that has been scientifically validated. Humans and our galaxy share around 97 percent of the same type of atoms. We are made of the stuff of stars!
It is through the understanding that we originate from the stars that we come to appreciate how the splendor of the stars is mirrored in our own humanity. This beauty should never be diminished, whether we are in the womb, at our oldest, in the best of health, or facing disabilities. Our creation is no less extraordinary, and just as we are awestruck by gazing at the stars, we should be equally amazed by observing our fellow human beings.
On clear nights, when you step outside, resist the temptation to keep your head down, glued to your phone. Instead, look up and around, and connect with the origins of your heritage. Deep within your soul resides a divine spark, a trace of the stars themselves. Take a moment to consider places within driving distance where you can truly behold the wonders of the solar system, free from the shackles of light pollution. Perhaps there is a planetarium nearby that you can visit. I vividly recall a date night with my wife, back when she was still my girlfriend, when we embarked on a drive to a planetarium. It was a terrific experience that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos. By meditating on the vastness of the universe, we can cultivate a greater appreciation for ourselves and potentially find solace and clarity amidst the challenges of our human existence.
Key Take-Aways
• Take a moment to contemplate the vastness of the Cosmos and gaze at the stars. It can provide a broader perspective on your problems, which can ultimately contribute to improving your mental health.
• When meditating, try visualizing the Earth from a birds-eye view or even from the perspective of a satellite.
• Reflect on the fascinating concept that you are made up of stardust, connecting you to the wonders of the universe and recognizing your own divinity.
• Explore different ways to observe the stars in your area, such as driving to a location with less light pollution or visiting a planetarium for a unique experience.
#spirituality #stoicism #wellbeing
