I was reading some National Geographic letters to the editor about it's article on the night sky, and how difficult it is to see stars anymore because of city lights.

I live out in the country, 7 and 15 miles away from city lights. But I can still see the glow, even from Chicago, 120 miles away. Plus all my neighbors (the closest being a quarter of a mile distant)have security lights beaming brightly in every direction. I hate them.

I'm one of the few "country folk" that doesn't keep his outside light turned on (I do have one). I have my reasons, one of which is annoyance. It's night time, and I like it dark. If I have to go outside, I'll flip it on. I enjoy looking at the stars. It's an awesome, spiritual experience to gaze into the night sky.

Most people have security lights for, well, security. I question that. To me, it only makes it easier for a burgler to see where's he's going. I don't need to illuminate the yard and house and garage for him. And I don't need to advertize the location of my "hidden" house with a night light.

One more reason I don't use a security light is, I'm cheap. Those babies are expensive to have running day and night.
Sometime in April, the world is celebrating a "light's off" night (I forget the date). I'll be curious to see if any of my neighbors honor that night. My bet is not.