By Brett Brimhall, Ridgeview 2nd
I will never forget our experience watching the total solar eclipse. In August 2017 we went on a family vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as we’ve always loved hanging out on the beach, catching some waves, and basking in the warm sun.
As the time for our vacation approached we realized that it coincided with the total solar eclipse. And even more amazing was that the path of totality was only 1 hour south of where we were staying. We have always loved the natural wonders of the world and felt strongly that catching the solar eclipse in the path of totality would absolutely be an event of a lifetime.
On the day of the eclipse, we packed up all of our beach gear early and started to drive down to a small town called Pawley’s Island. It was crowded so we felt fortunate to have found a place to set up. As the afternoon progressed excitement started to build. We struck up conversations with our neighbors on the beach and got to know them a little bit. I recall a particular family next to us had come from New Jersey to see the eclipse. Others had come from various locations across the East Coast.
Finally, the moment arrived. Gradually it became darker. Then, at the moment of totality, it became eerily dim, and the shadows disappeared. Everyone was cheering in amazement. We marveled at the celestial event as we looked through eclipse glasses to see the sun completely dark with a ring of flares around it. We took pictures and videos to capture the moment. After just a couple of minutes totality was over, and shadows returned as it got lighter
But even as amazing as it was to see the total solar eclipse something perhaps even more amazing took place. A few people gathered on the beach to cheer and take a group picture. Others saw them and joined in. The group got larger and the cheers got louder. Soon everyone joined. Within a few minutes, ~200 strangers had come together from all over for what was probably the largest group picture ever taken in the town of Pawley’s Island. As several of us took a video one person ran across the sand leading the crowd in a wave cheer. It was an amazing experience.
For a brief moment, complete strangers had come together, witnessed a celestial event, and celebrated our shared experience. It was amazing to feel the unity with people we didn’t even know. This experience has helped me to know that developing an eternal perspective and focusing on the celestial wonders the Lord has in store for us can unite us in a shared cause. Even with how different all of us are we can build a community where everyone feels a deep sense of belonging and feels we have great worth. As I pursue and witness celestial events in my life I begin to understand how amazing God’s plan is and feel united with my brothers and sisters in Christ.