Moonlight vs Sunlight: A Contest

During a casual talk show, the moon and sun engage in a challenging discussion and exchange their views on who is superior to the other. Will they finally come to a resolution? Let’s find out.

Briefing

Across the globe, the sun delights people daily, with its brightness shining through the sky. Its impact is constantly discussed and considered a factor in determining the weather forecast. The sun’s distance from Earth is essential in determining whether temperatures will be high or low.

On the other hand, the moon’s glow illuminates the bleak night sky, evoking feelings of tranquility. Furthermore, based on the moon's shape, people are able to predict if it is the start, middle or end of the month.

While both the sun and the moon play equally significant roles in regulating the 24-hour cycle of day and night, neither of them is completely satisfied with themselves. 

Sun vs Moon Perspectives

Inciting feelings of neglect and disregard, the moon is convinced people appreciate the sun much more. Consequently, the moon grew inferior as its existence was constantly overshadowed by the sun. 

If only people offered me half the attention and consideration they do to the sun, I would be satisfied. But most people ignore me and to me that is unfair. 

The moon desires to remain consistent, rather than occasionally taking the form of a crescent or a half-moon. Above all, the moon argues that without the sun’s light, it will simply be a dull and lightless rock. Thus, it views itself as useless and insignificant in comparison.

Contrary to the moon, the sun believes the moon holds more benefits than it gives itself credit. 

The serenity and calmness the moon exhibits during a quiet and relaxing night is to be envied. 

Also, the moon’s ability to change its appearance throughout the month is a feat the sun wishes it could achieve. This makes the sun feel inferior to the moon because people can easily recognise and admire its varying appearance, but struggle to identify the sun’s true form. 

In summary, the moon desires the sun’s stability, and the sun yearns for the moon’s diverse look. One wants to maintain consistency whilst the other wants to experience a varying appearance. 

The Eclipse: sharing the spotlight

The moon and the sun must be in close contact for an eclipse to occur, but how do they both feel about it? According to the moon, an eclipse is always a problem rather than an opportunity; the moon believes people only focus on the sun and completely overlook its role. 

Everyone eagerly awaits the return of a bright sky, naturally shifting their focus towards the sun. 

However, the sun opposes this:

Yes, people need me for the sky to turn bright again, but that does not mean they are not fascinated by the moon too.

The sun thinks people are subconsciously entertained by the eclipse because they are drawn to the darkness brought on by the moon. Although temporary, the sun selfishly embraces the moon’s shade, allowing it to be the centre of attention. The moon responds:

I disagree. The eclipse was never about me but all about you, sun. Even if people pay me attention, it's just momentarily, and for a few minutes, which is insufficient. 

Resolution

Though they both envy something about each other, they still managed to reach a mutual agreement. Admiting to the need of third party to offer non-biased view on the subject, the sun and moon invite stars and planets to a conference as judges. They are to provide objective and fair opinions on who between the two is indeed inferior.

At the conference, the stars conclude their thoughts and their representative talks: 

After a long and thorough discussion, we reached a unanimous conclusion. Although the Sun might possess slightly more advantages, both are equally important and required for life to function normally. 

Next, the planet’s representative presents their thoughts:

Evidently, the sun is much more dominant compared to the moon. As planets, we orbit the sun and it is arguably the largest existence in our galaxy. However, we cannot disregard the moon’s crucial contributions such as balancing sea levels, and without it, an eclipse would seize to exist. So yes, although we do think the sun overpowers us all, we believe if the moon attempts to explore its unique attributes, its true value will be discovered.

The moon is unconvinced by the statements and describes everyone’s remarks as too ‘nice’ rather than honest. Despite this, it is willing to take into account some of the advice and, will be on a journey of self-discovery in hopes of attaining fulfillment. However, rather than ‘nice’, the sun perceived the conference as a golden opportunity for self-reflection and developing self-love. However, the moon is now feeling a little more positive and will be on a journey of self-discovery in hopes of accomplishing fulfillment within. 

Closure

And now, ladies and gentlemen, the sun and moon have finally reached a resolution. So what did their encounter teach us? Definitely, to seek self-acceptance and avoid falling prey to envy. We should not allow negativity to control our lives and lead us astray, but instead, focus on uplifting ourselves. Ultimately, eliminating unnecessary negative emotions, (particularly jealousy), and cultivating positive ones, will help us achieve true happiness. 

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