A dim outlook- reflection on working without light

As an exercise, we spent a good portion of Tuesday's class working without light. Well, technically we were working by candlelight but in technologically advanced nations such as the United States, we would barely classify candlelight as usable light. Unfortunately, working by candlelight is the norm in many places still around the world.

The purpose of the exercise was to gain insight into life without access to reliable electricity, and it proved a stark reminder of the advantages we have in this country. Trying to write with a small light source shared by several others was challenging, as we had to fight physical and mental effects of the dark: eye strain and our brain's association of darkness with sleep. I can only imagine what it must be like for those relying on candlelight-aside from the dangers of fire and smoke, they must struggle to accomplish even the most basic of tasks.

Completing the quiz in "normal" lighting was much easier, as it was what I'm used to and I only had to focus on the answers rather than fighting to see. The exercise definitely inspired me to count my blessings.