When we lived in Houston, it was a rare night when the stars could be seen through the haze. Even then, the few we did see were our own neighboring planets, mostly Venus, and even it was 'fuzzy' due to my poor vision..
Jump forward to our move from Houston to Covington, Louisiana. We found ourselves living 'out in the country.' The air smelled different - better and cleaner.
Our first night in our new home was glorious. Everything was new and fresh, including the air and the sky. The Sky!!! Excitedly, I looked up. I could see hundreds of stars. I could make out a 'dipper.' And that one may have been Mars. I was so excited that the first thing I wanted to order was a telescope - a good one that I could dial in a planet or a galaxy far away. I could attach my camera to take photos. I was creating a totally new and exciting hobby.
The next evening I once again looked anxiously into the night sky and ... nothing. I couldn't even see Venus. Everything was marked by some kind of haze and it was bathed in the glowing light from downtown Covington, 4.2 miles away.
I decided to wait to make sure I could see the sky before I wasted money on a telescope.
About that same time, my only good eye began to give me problems.
Over six years later I've not once seen the beautiful night sky I saw on our first night here.
Until 5:00 AM this morning. As I looked up into the clearest sky in years, I could see hundreds, maybe thousands of stars. Although I was alone I heard myself say, "Oh WOW!." Then again, and again as I moved along the sidewalk. It was beautiful.
I decided right then and there that I didn't need perfect vision or a telescope after all. I saw what I really wanted to see - a magnificent night sky - a treasure for those who just take the time to look up into the night sky.
