I’ve seen some beautiful sunsets. Beaches on Guam and in Australia. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. In the high deserts of Arizona and of course on long road trips headed West.
All were beautiful, but nothing inspires me more than a sunrise.
I didn’t grow up a “morning person.” Growing up, I’d sleep in as long as I could. The Navy changed that a bit, but once I settled into a routine, I quickly went back to sleeping in as long as possible. With my first wife, we’d sleep in until around 11 on a weekend, eat breakfast, then go back to bed for a couple of hours. Then stay up watching movies until about 2AM. And repeat.
That changed when Krystal was born, and I started getting up earlier to be up with her so my wife could sleep in. Later, when I discovered computers, I would get up around 5AM just to have some time to tinker around with them until I had to go to work.
After that relationship ended, and I got serious about college, I officially became a “morning person.” It was the only time I could write my papers and do homework. Since now Barb and I had had young child of our own, getting up early was the only way to get anything done. And the habit stuck.
Now I’m up at 5AM regardless of the day, with or without an alarm. But my favorite thing to do is watch the sun rise. Maybe the most inspiration one was on a long drive I did from California to Tennessee in 1992. I was driving most of the night and just as I was getting close to Amarillo, TX, the sun began to rise. I’m not sure why it was so beautiful, but maybe it was because of seeing darkness for so long. Watching the sky lighten, then turn different shades of pink and purple as it brightens is almost like feeling regenerated.
Here are some other reasons I prefer sunrise:
- Beginning of a New Day: Sunrises signify the start of something new, symbolizing fresh opportunities and a chance for a fresh start, which can be incredibly inspiring.
- Quiet and Serene: Often, sunrises occur in a tranquil atmosphere with fewer people around, allowing for a more personal and intimate connection with nature and its beauty.
- Promise of Potential: Witnessing the sunrise can evoke a sense of hope, as it represents the promise of a day full of possibilities, encouraging a positive mindset.
- Renewal and Rejuvenation: The colors and gradual emergence of light during a sunrise can inspire feelings of renewal and rejuvenation, almost like a natural awakening.
- Inner Reflection: Watching the sunrise can provide a moment for inner reflection, offering a peaceful and meditative time for contemplation and setting intentions for the day ahead.
- Rarity of Experience: For many, seeing a sunrise is a rarer occurrence due to the early hours, making it a more unique and special event that adds to its inspirational value.
- Optimism and Energy: The vibrant colors and the gradual brightening of the sky can evoke a sense of energy and optimism, boosting motivation and positivity for the day ahead.
- Connection to Nature: Witnessing the sunrise fosters a stronger connection to the natural world, reminding us of our place in the universe and providing a sense of awe and wonder.
- Physical Health Benefits: Scientifically, exposure to morning light can positively influence circadian rhythms, improving mood and overall well-being, thereby adding to the inspirational aspect of sunrises.
Enough about me. Which inspires you more: sunrise or sunset? Respond back and let us know.
