3-Part Firefly Delight

Inspired by Ross Gay.

Part One

My friend Loaf, real name Bryan is a big fan of My Morning Jacket. I respect them and have heard songs I like, both band and Jim James solo, but overall, it's not my thing. However, many years ago, he talked me into going to see them play here locally. I went and had a great time; fun crowd and they are great musicians. Their music is pretty chill so even if you're not into it, it's a laid back and enjoyable experience. I should add, they were playing in the BJCC Concert Hall, a theatre-sized room. At some point Jim James began interacting with the crowd by holding out his index finger, E.T. style or for those who know, Arsenio Hall style, and touching fingertips with various audience members. The more he did it, the more people walked up to the stage. He was wearing a shiny jacket and had huge sunglasses on, making it an ethereal experience. After the show, Loaf, who has seen them many times, said he'd never seen him do that.

Part Two

That same friend, Loaf, told me of a recent trip to western North Carolina, where a friend and local took him and his wife to a spot deep in the forest where they witnessed the synchronized fireflies in person. Needless to say, it was a psychedelic and profound experience. I would love to see this as well.

Part Three

Now for the delight. On Friday, I was having a horrific mental health day. I noticed it had begun to lightly rain (again) and I had just planted a couple ferns in a spot I'm hoping to eventually turn into a fern glade. I went to the back door to see how the new ferns were handling the rain, and really, I was just searching for a moment to gather myself. I noticed a firefly that was likely stirred up by the rain flying around and it turned towards me. I held out my right index finger and it gently landed on my fingertip and crawled on top of my nail. I held my hand completely still and for 60-90 seconds the little friend rested before gently flying away. While this is a minor moment, it reminded me of those previous events, of my friend, and that little moments can be beautiful or ... delightful.