We escaped the heat and humidity of the Triangle for a few days in the mountains. The fallen trees across the creek are reminders of the fury of Hurricane Helene, but businesses in the little town are open. After supper, we walked to buy ice cream. Sugared-up and excited, our kids chased fireflies in a grassy field beyond a parking lot.
The best fireflies of my childhood were found in my grandparents’ yard in Winston-Salem. At dusk, their flickering glow appeared like magic—here and then gone. My younger brother and I would dash around the grass, cupping the flying lights in our hands. We never used jars. We strictly practiced catch-and-release.
Scientific studies have confirmed my sense that there are fewer fireflies now than during my childhood. Habitat destruction, light pollution, and pesticides are the killer culprits.
I learned that fireflies are actually a species of beetle and that they exist on every continent save Antarctica. While populations are declining, there are hopeful signs. Japanese schoolchildren’s efforts to protect fireflies have led to national festivals with local and national support. Noticing something beautiful can also inspire us to care for it.
My children lived the tension between wanting to hold and not harm the tiny creatures. It takes quickness and gentleness—a sudden, soft speed. The kids caught on quickly, and soon they shouted for us to come and see.
After lifting the top of the hand like a secret, the tiny catch waited in her palm, and my daughter whispered, “Go live a happy life!” On command, the firefly winged away and flashed as if to say thanks. A light of delight from my childhood filled me as she raced around in circles like a happy dog. When it was time to leave, my cheeks hurt from smiling so much.
Andrew Taylor-Troutman is the author of the book with Wipf and Stock Publishers titled This Is the Day: A Year of Observing Unofficial Holidays about Ampersands, Bobbleheads, Buttons, Cousins, Hairball Awareness, Humbugs, Serendipity, Star Wars, Teenagers, Tenderness, Walking to School, Yo-Yos, and More. He lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he is a student of joy.
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Little Big Moments: Lit by a Firefly Chapelboro.com.
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