As a child, the voyages between Kuching and Sarikei aboard the Rajah Mas were thrilling adventures on the high seas for my family. With no distractions like TV or radio, these journeys were opportunities for boundless exploration. When the weather permitted, the canvas cover for the 3rd Class passengers would be drawn back, revealing the vast expanse of the night sky. It was during these moments that I found myself mesmerized by the celestial display above. Accompanying my late father to Tanjung Manis, once known as Tanjung Mani, I witnessed the moonlight dancing upon the pristine, white sands. There, amidst the tranquil beauty of the beach, my fascination with the stars and the moon first took root, their radiant glow captivating my imagination and filling me with a sense of wonder and enchantment.
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In the past, venturing to the outdoor toilet at night was an adventure in itself. I would eagerly search for stars in the sky and admire the beauty of the moon. There was something magical about the way the stars twinkled across the sky, filling me with awe and wonder.
As I grew older, Kunta, my cherished feline companion, and I would often spend evenings sprawled in the front yard, gazing up at the twinkling stars. In their silent brilliance, we found solace, their ethereal beauty serving as a poignant reminder of the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it. Though the desire for a telescope burned within me, the steep price tag was enough to rival that of a Boon Siew Honda Cup C70 motorcycle aka “kapchai”.
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Today, thanks to technological advancements, exploring the night sky has become more accessible. Telescopes, once considered luxury items, are now readily available at affordable prices, allowing amateur astronomers like myself to delve deeper into the mysteries of the cosmos.
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With a telescope in hand, I can now observe distant galaxies, nebulae, and planets with breathtaking clarity, unlocking secrets that were once hidden from view. Each night spent stargazing feels like a journey of discovery, as I explore new celestial wonders and deepen my understanding of the universe.
But no matter how far technology advances, there will always be something special about watching the stars and the moon from the beach. It's a timeless ritual that connects me to the natural world and fills me with a sense of peace and wonder that is unmatched by anything else.
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So, the next time you find yourself on the beach on a clear night, take a moment to look up at the sky. You might be surprised at what you see and the sense of awe and wonder it inspires.
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