The sun sets, lighting up the sky in a bright array of
colors that slowly turn black. Suddenly the air is rent with the sound of
birds, returning back to their nests. Somewhere far, the critter of insects can
be heard. Streetlights slowly start coming up, illuminating the roads. The air
turns crisp and cooler, a refreshing waft. Night sets in…
When the rest of the world prepares to slumber, there are a
few “creatures” (humans, I mean) who turn active at night. It’s as if the
darkness ignites their spirit, kindling the very soul. There’s something about
darkness, serenity beyond explanation. The dictionary terms it as Nyctophilia
or love of darkness or the night. Is it psychological or spiritual or does it
have a scientific meaning behind this liking? I am not sure. As a child, I used
to fear the dark. I was terrified of being anywhere that was even partially dark.
Power cuts at nights would spell doom. I fervently would pray for the power to
come back.
However, growing up, I suddenly developed an affinity
towards the dark. I feel this odd comfort, whenever I look out of my window at
night. The pitch blackness of the night envelopes me in a calmness, that human
mind may not perceive. It is at this time where my brain, at its heightened
energy, craves for activity. The peace outside, with an occasional disturbance
of insects, the calm breeze, and sometimes the moon shining through the clouds,
feels like a perfect setting. There’s an
amazing relaxation that only a night can bring. No harsh sun to ruin the mood,
nor the dry wind that parches your soul. I love the night time, for reasons
best known to be. I’m sure my fellow beings, who find comfort in the darkness,
will agree with what I’m saying.
Nyctophilic, this is me!
