The sky really is falling ... So what

Posted by Michael Kane on November 7, 2008

Whatever problem you happen to have in your life, I can top it.

I nearly got hit by a fireball from outer space. A real one.

On Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008, a meteorite fell to earth in an area near my house. The event was captured on all seven cameras operated by the physics and astronomy department at the University of Western Ontario.

I caught an interview on CBC Radio during which I heard Dr. Phil McCausland of the UWO Meteor Group describe this extraordinary event. Because so much data was available from its lengthy descent, researchers were able to narrow the target area with unusual certainty.

My home stands in the proverbial bull's-eye.

Some time after I heard the interview, a flyer appeared in my mailbox. It was from the university, explaining the event and asking for anyone who saw or heard anything that morning to contact researchers. It also suggested we take a look around the property to see if there are any unusual rocks lying around.

It is rare to receive such a clear sign confirming one's lifestyle. I recall making the conscious decision, while in my teens, that I would not let money rule my life. And it was for this precise reason: it could all disappear in a heartbeat.

But, I admit, I didn't see it coming like this.

Click here to see a picture of the meteorite.

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