I am not talking about the magic in fantasy. I'm talking about the magic that touches all of us! The magic present in the real world! The innate magic of beauty and love.

Stars are beautiful. Tiny flecks of light scattered across a deep indigo sky. There's something magical about just staring up into them. We are filled with awe, passion, inspiration or hope when we see them. But it isn't always like this for people.

I was once afraid of the night sky, afraid of the stars, the moon, and the shadows between. I had an overactive imagination, I still do, but I wasn't taught about the spiritual side of stars. I was told they were great balls of burning gas, just like the sun. I was told that when certain stars die, they become black holes. I was told that black holes indiscriminately sucked in everything, including light. I was told black holes could destroy the world. But it was never mentioned how rare black holes were, that I never had to worry. I lived in fear of the night sky. I could never look up without thinking about this, and it limited my life.

Do you know how hard it is to live in fear of the night? Luna would not be happy...

But nowadays I love the stars. They are a beauty to behold. The moon is a gorgeous orb of light. The night is just as amazing as the day. What sparked this change in me? The simple idea that stars might be more than just flaming balls of gas. Stars shine bright in the darkness. They are a metaphor for hope. Their beauty leaves us in awe. They inspire us to do better (well, they inspire me anyway). They're a perfect setting for romance and passion. They soothe the soul. They bring us together. They truly are magical.

I have been contemplating this kind of magic. It is in love, friendship, and all things in this world that are beautiful. Waterfalls, rainbows, stars and the moon. The sun on your back on a cold winters day, the sweet smell of flowers in spring, the cool splash of water in summer, the fallen leaves in autumn. It is in everyday life, in those moments of joy. It is in all that is good in the world.

But that doesn't stop it from succumbing darkness. Jealousy is often born of love. Narcissism, born of self beauty. It is an unfortunate side effect of living in a world with both light and darkness.

So... what are your thoughts on this kind of magic?