1. First, find your way to the nearest
dock,
canoe, or
rock formation jutting from the shore of the
island. If you choose to bring others with you, make sure they are people who know
how to shut the hell up. It also helps if their flesh is
pillowy soft and good for lying on.
2. Lie down. Sit, if you must, but be aware that you are not getting the whole picture.
3. Before taking your first good look, close your eyes. Smell the air. Breathe for a minute, taking in the the night and the its strange yet soothing noises. In order to fully acquaint yourself with what is above you must first appreciate what is below.
4. Open your eyes. Because you have chosen an island far from civilization (give yourself a pat on the back), you are now dazzled by the powdery speckles of millions of stars shining above you. It will be like nothing you have ever seen.
5. Smile.
6. If you have brought people with you, now would be the proper time to acknowledge them, not before. The wait will make you appreciate the silence around you and therefore your conversation will not be forced. If it is cold, huddle together with a warm blanket. Tell them secrets. Confess things. Let the words tumble from your mouth like the spray of stars from the milky way.
7. Find your favorite constellation. It doesn't need to be an actual constellation, but you should be able to recognize it if you ever go back. Name it.
8. Leave when you are good and ready, and only when you are ready. If necessary, allow the others to drift away gradually, leaving you alone with your thoughts.
9. Before you go, make a wish.