Well, I’m not sure the dream of walking on the stars is more noble than the dream of eradicating poverty.
Myself, I’d like to see free enterprise in charge of space exploration. I don’t see it as a constitutional mandate.
And of course, I believe the best war on poverty would involve far less government, less taxation, less regulation, proper enforcement of contracts, and enforcement of the law - not welfare.
Space travel = waste of money
Aye.
Throughout our history, we Americans roamed the back country in forest and grassland; as children, running around, checking out bugs, chasing butterflies, playing with tadpoles, understanding our world. In my experience, those who lived in such an environment were more resourceful, more resilient than our city-dwellers. Why? Because they had to fix things. When you’re on the farm, there is no calling the handyman. I’m sure our city dwellers had to deal with more social issues, but when push comes to shove, I’d rather have a farmer or a rancher, than a narcissistic half-assed community organizer by my side, when things get rough.
Scotsman, that was heart-stirring, and inspirational. I also saw and felt all of the same things that you did, as a child in the 60’s.
When my family lived on Okinawa in the mid-sixties, we had an island-wide power failure one night. It was summertime, and I can still remember the splendor of the sky that night. It was exactly as you described it. Truly awe inspiring.
I have also been very disappointed that our nation essentially abandoned the forward progress of manned exploration of the solar system. As a kid, I imagined that by the dawn of the 21st century we would have well established colonies on the moon, Mars, and maybe even far beyond that.
Sadly, all of that wonderful adventure hasn’t happened in my lifetime, but I do know that the last forty years is simply a lull in the story of space faring. One day, it will barely rate a mention in mankind’s great history.
Like you, I believe it’s now my duty to fight for the survival of this great nation, so that little dreamers of today can one day walk the dusty plains of far off worlds.
Good post!
As an enthusiastic member of the Science Fiction Book Club (circa 1968 - 1971) and a devourer of every Robert Heinlein book, I share your sentiments more than you can know.
FRegards,
LH
The hope I believe lies in automation, machines that can not only make copies of themselves but which can be reprogrammed from afar to do other things. That would make living in space not only cheap but profitable.
Reaching for the stars is still only a wish but the solar system is tantalizingly close to becoming a fresh home. I dream of seeing a new America reborn out there in our solar system free of the collectivist swamp of earth bound Obamanations.
That was very well written.
Your writing style compels the reader to continue, and begs one to step into their own memories, looking back through the years for like dreams, like moments, like feelings of excitement, innocence and peace. At least it did me.
Seems we have traveled down a few of the same roads. I am 60, and while I don’t like this ‘getting older’ part of life, going through it reminds me daily of how very fortunate I have been, to live in a time and experience.... that others may never see.
My body will not allow me to be the warrior I once was, but I have the strength of ten men within me and I would gladly fight, again, so that younger eyes may see and live their dreams.
I still dream though. It’s easy to find more dreams... by simply looking into the eyes of my grandchildren.
As for that wonderful sight of the stars, that precious moment with your dad so many long years ago, you will see it again. This time you will be looking from the other direction, that is all. It will be just as beautiful, just as inspiring, just as vast and he will again be by your side.
Good night.....
Gator
Your comments are all appreciated greatly.
Thank you.