What Does the Moon Remember That We Forget?
A quiet reflection on October’s Harvest Supermoon, the grace of slowing down, and the rhythms that shape our lives.
Tonight, the Harvest Supermoon will rise into our night sky with quiet majesty, larger than usual, brighter than expected. I hope to watch it crest the horizon just after sunset, its golden light spilling across the sky, praying for no clouds! There’s something about a full moon in October that feels like a turning point. The air is cooler, the shadows longer, and the rhythm of the year begins to slow. It is my favorite month of the year!
This particular moon is both a Harvest Moon and a Supermoon. The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, traditionally lighting the way for farmers gathering the last of their crops. A Supermoon occurs when the moon is at perigee, its closest point to Earth in its orbit, making it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. Last night, those two identities merged, and the result was quietly stunning.
There’s a verse in Psalm 104 that came to mind: “You made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down.” The moon doesn’t rush. It doesn’t strive. It simply reflects. And in doing so, it reminds me to do the same.
For those who miss it, the moon will still be nearly full tonight & tomorrow. Step outside if you can. Look east after sunset. Let the light settle over you. You don’t need a telescope or a camera, just a moment of attention. The moon has been faithful for generations, marking time, guiding tides, and illuminating our nights. It’s a quiet companion in the sky, and tonight, it will be especially generous.
As we enter October, may we gather what’s ripe in our lives. May we reflect light, not just absorb it. And may we trust the rhythms that carry us forward, even when the path is dim.
Until next time, keep looking up!
-g
Reading this felt like standing beneath the moon itself—quiet, steady, and somehow comforting. I love how you describe the Harvest Supermoon as both a marker of time and a gentle reminder to reflect, not rush. There really is something about October’s moonlight that feels like a nudge to slow down and notice what’s around us. Thank you for this invitation to pause and gather what’s good.