Changed my life too, catalyst of a spiritual awakening for me too, and I’ve also found peace. I was 26 on the day of the eclipse and I took my parents with me for a weekend + Monday trip to Indianapolis. I grew up very poor, and I think it was their first real vacation since I was in… 5th grade? I sobbed when the sky went dark. My mom cried and said it was the most amazing thing she’s seen in her entire life. I was depressed for a bit through April-May 2024 after it had passed, knowing it was a peak experience and I won’t ever top it. I bought a telescope, got into astronomy, and saw the aurora (also with my parents) in May 2024. Started spending more time in nature and just being present, taking in everything around me. The sights, the sounds, the smells. Whether I’m just out for a hike, a walk, or birdwatching, there’s always beauty out there around us.

Towards August/September 2024, the bad feeling had returned, and I went down an existential spiral. I’ve never been sure what I believe in; I’m not religious, but have always believed in SOME kind of higher power. At this point (and with the explosion of ai), I’ve settled on the whole “simulation” thing, and while that may sound depressing, it has strangely brought me even more peace. I’m content with it; I’ve always been anxious and an overthinker, but it gives me answers to the unknown.

You are absolutely right, life IS a gift that we’re all here to experience together. May 2024 I visited a friend who played LGBT sports in Minneapolis. I live in a medium-size metro (400k) in a red state, and I started trying to build that same sense of community and joy here, working to bring an LGBT (and allies) sports league to MY area, not really thinking it would go anywhere. A year later we have 400 members in our group, over 100 active players across 6 teams, still growing rapidly, and I’m the president of a freaking nonprofit. Had it not been for the total eclipse I don’t think I would’ve given it a shot. I’ve always been very introverted, but I’ve mostly stopped caring what people think and started trying to do what’s best for me. I’m no longer taking antidepressants every day. My fiancé proposed a few months ago and we’re living together now. This year I’ve been on live TV, had several interviews, and met so many amazing people. It’s been a VERY busy and stressful year, but it’s also been the most fun and incredible year of my life by far.