The solar event that recently happened is one that will be remembered by many for years to come. That is especially true, however, of a group of individuals who live in and around Rochester, New York.
They were enjoying the eclipse that occurred during the time but they also had a special event that was taking place aside from the eclipse. It all started back in 1978, when an Earth science teacher made a promise to his ninth grade class.
He said that when the next total solar eclipse passed over their hometown, the class would get together to witness it with each other. Considering the fact that it is rare for one particular part of the earth to see a total eclipse, it was quite some time before it did happen.
That teacher, Patrick Moriarty didn’t forget about the promise he had made and over 40 years later, he met with over 100 of the students to watch it together.
Moriarty is now 68 years old and he said: “I mentioned to the students, ‘See that one on April 8, 2024? Circle that one. We’re gonna meet that day.”
It wasn’t just the class in 1978, he said the same thing to his other science classes that he taught for 16 years.
We are living in different times, but he did say that it was easier to get in touch with people in 2024 than at any time in the past. He started a Facebook group 2 years ago to set up the event.
When the total solar eclipse happened on Monday, more than 100 of his former students showed up to view it with him.
The retired teacher said: “I have had the opportunity to reconnect with so many of my students who have shared such wonderful things about being in my classroom and the impact of teachers.”
They may have looked different, but they still enjoyed being with each other.
