The myth of Selene and Endymion tells of the love between the moon goddess Selene and the handsome shepherd Endymion. Falling in love with him, Selene first saw him sleeping in a cave and asked Zeus to grant him eternal sleep so she could visit him every night, thus preserving her youth. Zeus granted her request, and Selene continued to descend to Earth to kiss him and admire him as he slept forever, with his eyes open, according to some versions, to observe her.