Watching the Eclipse

On April 8th, 2024, the universe put on a show— with a total solar eclipse that captivated millions across the country. For The KCJ, this celestial event was more than just a spectacle; it was an opportunity to connect with our community and share our mission. So, armed with eclipse glasses purchased on Amazon, we set out across metro Atlanta to make sure everyone could witness the magic of the eclipse safely, especially those living with keratoconus or other vision challenges.

Our first stop was a barber shop in Morrow, where clippers buzzed and conversations filled the air. As we handed out eclipse glasses, the shop grew curious. One gentleman with a warm smile and curious eyes told us, he also has keratoconus. For him, the glasses weren’t just a ticket to see the eclipse, but a reminder of the importance of protecting his vision. “This is incredible,” he said, sliding the glasses over his eyes. “I thought I’d miss this because of my eyes. Thank you!” His gratitude lit up the room, creating a ripple of excitement as others eagerly accepted their glasses.

From there, we moved through the city, visiting parks, busy street corners, and neighborhoods, handing out glasses and sparking conversations. Our final destination was Piedmont Park, where the energy was electric. Families were laying out picnic blankets, joggers paused to glance at the sky, and we even met a group of boys kicking a soccer ball. Intrigued by the glasses, they joined us to learn about the eclipse—and our mission. We handed them glasses and, together, we watched the skies transform.

As the moon slowly danced across the sun, the world seemed to pause. Gasps and cheers erupted as the sky dimmed, revealing the sun’s brilliant corona. Standing there with people from all walks of life, we felt the power of community and the beauty of shared experiences. We talked about keratoconus, eye health, and The KCJ’s work, planting seeds of awareness while fostering a sense of wonder.

For The KCJ, the eclipse was a reminder of what we stand for: ensuring everyone has the tools they need to see the beauty of the world clearly. That day, it wasn’t just about the glasses or the eclipse itself—it was about connection, inspiration, and the simple yet profound joy of witnessing something extraordinary together.