After riding a strong jet stream across the Atlantic on a moonless night, our flight neared its end.

And what a sight it was—on our northerly route, the Netherlands slowly came into view, partially veiled by clouds and illuminated by the light of a billion stars. The bright galactic core of the Milky Way graced the sky above, a breathtaking reminder of the vastness beyond us—and of how small our earthly struggles truly are in the greater scheme of things.

Cruising at 38,000 feet, I could easily make out the major cities and familiar landmarks of my homeland as their lights pierced through the cloud cover far below.
One of those rare, privileged moments that come with flying the Boeing 747 across the globe.

It reminded me of Van Gogh’s own words about his famous painting Starry Night, which I happened to see just two days ago at the Museum of Modern Art:
“I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.”