I’ve seen some beautiful sunsets. Beaches on Guam and in Australia. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. In the high deserts of Arizona. And of course, on long road trips headed west.
Sunrise from my front porch
All were beautiful, but nothing inspires me more than a sunrise.
I didn’t grow up a “morning person.” Growing up, I’d sleep in as long as I could. The Navy changed that a bit, but once I settled into a routine, I quickly went back to sleeping in as long as possible. With my first wife, we’d sleep in until around 11 on a weekend, eat breakfast, then go back to bed for a couple of hours. Then stay up watching movies until about 2 a.m. And repeat.
That changed when Krystal was born. I started getting up earlier to be up with her so my wife could sleep in. Later, when I discovered computers, I’d get up around 5 a.m. just to have some time to tinker before heading to work.
After that relationship ended and I got serious about college, I officially became a “morning person.” It was the only time I could write papers and do homework. Since Barb and I now had a young child of our own, getting up early was the only way to get anything done. And the habit stuck.
Now I’m up at 5 a.m., regardless of the day, with or without an alarm. But my favorite thing to do is watch the sun rise. Maybe the most inspirational one was on a long drive I took from California to Tennessee in 1992. I’d been driving most of the night, and just as I was getting close to Amarillo, Texas, the sun began to rise. I’m not sure why it struck me as so beautiful—maybe it was because I’d been in the dark for so long. Watching the sky lighten, then shift into shades of pink and purple as it brightened, felt almost like being reborn.
Sunrise over Maryland’s Eastern Shore
Here are some other reasons I prefer sunrise:
· Beginning of a New Day: Sunrises mark the start of something new—symbolizing fresh opportunities and a chance for a reset, which can be incredibly inspiring.
· Quiet and Serene: Mornings are often peaceful, with fewer people around. It’s a more intimate and personal connection with nature.
· Promise of Potential: A sunrise represents hope—a reminder that the day ahead is full of possibility.
· Renewal and Rejuvenation: The slow, colorful rise of the sun inspires a sense of renewal, almost like a natural awakening.
· Inner Reflection: Sunrise offers a peaceful moment for quiet reflection, intention-setting, and mindfulness.
· Rarity of Experience: Since most people aren’t up that early, a sunrise feels like a rare and special gift.
· Optimism and Energy: The vibrant colors and brightening sky create a surge of energy and optimism—fuel for a good day.
· Connection to Nature: Watching the sunrise roots you to the natural world, bringing perspective and awe.
· Physical Health Benefits: Science backs it up—morning light helps regulate circadian rhythms, improves mood, and boosts well-being.
Enough about me.
Which inspires you more: sunrise or sunset?
Respond back and let me know.
