Transitions
on Mark Stephens (Zambia), 22/Sep/2010 16:18, 34 days ago
September 22 (or September 23, depending on one's location) marks the autumnal equinox. This is one of  two times during the course of the year when the center of the sun is directly over the equator, and the amount of daylight and darkness is theoretically equal around the globe on that date. For those in the Northern Hemisphere, fall officially begins, as does the transition to darkness exceeding daylight. Conversely, for those in the Southern Hemisphere, spring starts, along with the transition to daylight exceeding darkness.With departure from California for Zambia to work as a volunteer through CUSO-VSO now just around the corner, a major personal transition is in the offing as well. Besides flipping hemispheres, just a few of the variables that will change dramatically include living arrangements, work environment, daily activity patterns and social interactions. Part of what prompted these musings is the realization that if all goes according to plan, I'll miss winter entirely while on the placement in Zambia. Granted, winter in San Diego is hardly noticeable, but altogether, these transitions are rather daunting and exciting at the same time. In any event, please enjoy the commencement of autumn, or the dawn of spring, as the case may be, and the days and evenings ahead!