This Little Light of Mine

Let it Shine. Just NOT on a Pole in Community Darkness

IMAGE CAPTION: The crepuscular view, westward. Visible, the moon, with Jupiter at 1 o’clock. And the manmade lights: atop Panther Knob, a single housetop light on at 3225 feet and reasonably illuminated for protection in visual air-space; and below the moon at 5 o’clock, the illuminated church’s dawn-to-dusk “security” light.

I have an issue with a light leak that, even from miles away, is turning the black sky gray. The too-bright light is on the property of a church a few miles to the west. I’ve written but not yet sent a letter about this to the church.

I am wondering aloud if I should send the letter? I offer them better options; I offer them the opportunity to be good stewards and good neighbors. I don’t see the harm, but others in the house think I should just get over it.

Should I send it? What do you think?

Are you losing dark skies where you live to unnecessary or poorly placed or poorly shielded lighting?

Darkness at night is more important in the natural world than most people realize. I added some factual support for this notion to my letter. Might as well attempt to ILLUMINATE while advocating for change.

Let me know what you think and what you’d do in this circumstance.

Related Reading: Do Outside Lights Deter Burglars? Probably Not!