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It's finally here! We have all seen the news coverage for weeks. The first time I actually heard it mentioned was 2 YEARS ago! To be honest, I think they are hyping it up a little too much.
Here in Cleveland, we are on the path of totality, but we also have a lot of cloud cover this time of year so who knows if all the tourists they say will travel for an event such as this will get what they came for.
There are some interesting facts about this eclipse. First, an eclipse occurs when the Sun, Moon and Earth are aligned. The term is called syzygy. Also, an eclipse only happens in New Moon. Obviously the moon needs to be between the Earth and Sun, but an eclipse doesn't happen every New Moon.
Another, being that the last eclipse that crossed the US was in 2017 and went in the opposite direction, the only place in the US in the path of totality for the 2017 and 2024 eclipses was Missouri.
The next solar eclipse that can be seen in the US is August 2044 . There are plenty before then we just won't see them live here.
There are also plenty of folks that follow the Bible and feel that we are in the "End Times." For those who are well versed in scripture, you might find it interesting that the path of totality is going through 7 or 8 cities in the US named Nineveh. Scripture states that the Ninevites were warned by Jonah to repent or feel God's wrath and be destroyed. Even though the city was known for its wealth, power and prestige, the entire city from the king on down repented and was spared God's wrath. Spoiler alert, they were destroyed later. Regardless, some think this is a warning from God that we all need to get our act together.... Whether it is or not, we need to get our act together.
So, make sure you have your spiffy glasses so you don't burn your retina. Staring at the sun can cause permanent damage. The only time the experts say you can take them off is at the point of totality. Remember to listen during the eclipse as it is said that birds will stop chirping while the crickets will start. Also, it is said the wind will die down and Venus will be present in the sky along with stars.
I'm looking forward to it but I have no plans to brave the masses when all I have to do is go outside and look up.