Astronauts

As the holiday season is coming to a close I was self-reminded of the plight of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, whose Gilligan’s Island “eight day tour” in space became an involuntary half year “adventure” and counting. Think of it this way; here on earth imagine yourself being stranded in Antarctica for an indefinite period of time. Not for me, thanks.

These two astronauts are, of course, remarkable. They’ve handled the situation with great calm and aplomb. This is why astronauts are special people who are chosen because of their character and talents. They lead the way in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the universe on a very human scale.

So, Happy New Year Sunita and Butch, and all the other people currently residing at the International Space Station. You are truly amazing. No matter what country you come from, you are doing important work on many levels to make our world a better place. Let’s also remember the “International” in Space Station. Space is for all humankind, not just countries or factions. May we never fight over possession of this realm, as is the nature of the human species.