This post is dedicated to my science educator friends (that’s you, Vicki, Rob, Anne, and maybe others too?).
We discovered this informational sign next to the harbor at Porto dell’Etna, (next to a volcano, naturally). Looking at the sketches and recalling a few Latin roots, you can discern that the display is about the changing of the seasons, and more. I honestly haven’t tried to decipher the details, but it looks like there are tides, zodiac signs, geographic coordinates, and dates. The top sin-wave thingie could be a tidal chart, and your guess is better than mine about the meaning of TMEC = TV – CL +/- ET (Tempo Vero would be true time).
Adding to the mystery is the spike in the middle of the sign: is it a sun dial? Don’t you think the head of the nail is casting a shadow in an auspicious spot on this particular day? Feel free to comment if you can derive meaning from the figure 8s and other details of the drawing.
It’s no fluke that this sign is located in a town by the sea; living by and with the water makes us much more aware of the rhythms of the moon and tides. Our travels are dictated by them. It can be to a sailor’s peril to ignore tidal fluctuation when traversing a narrow channel or tying the boat to a fixed dock. During a night journey, a new moon brings the utter darkness that means superb viewing of the heavens, while a full moon can light our passage with a lovely path on the sea. Living outdoors also makes us aware of weather patterns, sea changes, animal behavior, and other natural rhythms. The connection to the elements is challenging and humbling.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
And the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
Day to day pours out speech,
And night to night reveals knowledge.
Psalm 19:1-2
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