Clouds gather from afar, and a slow darkness sets in.

Brought by the winds, the clouds carry with it water, which will pour down as droplets of rain.

But before that happens, the calm waters will slowly change their demeanor, and waves will start to form, crashing against the rocks.

As you walk steadily along the rocky coastline, you spot a lighthouse not far where you are.

As you approach the lighthouse, you are reminded of how lighthouses such as the one in front of you have stood as beacons in the night for centuries, guiding and protecting sailors in the seas around.

This is true of Maine's Bug Light. Built almost two centuries ago, this lighthouse has stood the test of time and continues to serve as a light to warn seafarers of the rocky coastlines nearby.

The eastern lighthouse, the one on this photo, is active and has been automated so it requires less people to operate it.

There is a western lighthouse, and while that one has been discontinued, it still serves as an important icon in the community surrounding it.

Beacons. Lights. Guides.

Lighthouses have long served these purposes and will continue to do so.