“Bluuuue Moon, I saw you…”

Years ago, in “The New York Times,” I came across a list of names for each of the 12 full moons. I was so enchanted by the lyricism of it all that I kept the list as sort of a souvenir of sweeter times, clearer dark skies and once passionate hearts. I always hoped I’d be able to use it in some way, but I never knew how. Until now. When, you, Dear Reader, thankfully came along. I hope you'll find the list as evocative and pleasurable as did I, as well as the concept that -- just like you and me -- moons have names, too. Here goes!

• January – Wolf Moon
• February – Snow Moon
• March – Work Moon
• April – Grass Moon
• May – Flower Moon
• June – Strawberry Moon
• July – Thunder Moon
• August – Green corn Moon
• September – Harvest Moon
• October – Hunter’s Moon
• November – Beaver Moon
• December – Cold Moon 

 And now for the Grand Finale! THE BLUE MOON. When two moons occur in only one month -- the second is known as “Blue.” Oh, you mysterious Blue. You’re such a bad, bad boy. .

N.B. Every culture has designated their own names for the Full Moons and in many instances, a moon is known by multiple monikers. This list is somewhat of a compilation

The Turnstile Man

In  Manhattan subway stations,  one of the exit turnstiles is made up of predatory looking curved bars.  I’m always worried that I’ll get caught in the mechanism if the person ahead of me goes through too quickly. Today, with my usual trepidation, when I was exiting the #1 train at 28th Street and Broadway, the man ahead of me -- a blue-collar, tough looking sort --  turned back toward me and with a shy smile,  assured me that he would indeed push the turnstile very slowly and that I had nothing to fear. My heart soared. How beautiful and reassuring is the kindness and goodness of strangers. Tennessee, you got it right.