by Meghna Jaiprakash, I B.Com. CS (A)
Hey, is that a shooting star? Let's make a wish on it! But wait, a shooting star has nothing at all to do with a star. These beautiful streaks of light are actually tiny bits of dust and rocks called meteoroids, falling into Earth's atmosphere and burning up. These meteor showers which fill the darkest nights with brilliant light are said to illuminate your world by fulfilling your wishes, however crazy it may sound!
Wishing on a shooting star has been a practice from ancient times, even though there is no scientific proof for it being successful. Different countries have different traditions and ways to make a wish on shooting stars. Some repeat their wish thrice, and some hold a cloth to their face. The moment at which the shooting star is seen is considered to be a fleeting opportunity to reach a divine power.
Adults turn into children and get super excited about shooting stars, even though most of them don't believe in wishing on them. Why? Because it's fun! Who wouldn't like to try something mundane which might change their lives forever? So what are you waiting for? Hold your breath and count to three. This meteoroid could change your life forever!