Columbia

I was sitting in my seventh-grade social studies classroom when the door opened. A teacher from another class stuck her head in, beckoned to Mrs. Smith, and whispered something. Mrs. Smith turned to the class and told us the Space Shuttle had exploded. We spent the rest of the day watching the television, struggling to understand.

Years later, I visited Kennedy Space Center and saw Columbia sitting on a launch pad. Even from several miles away, it was an awesome sight.

One day, space travel will be routine. But before it is, many more names will be added to the memorial to those explorers who gave their lives reaching for the stars. I only hope that those who come after will be as grateful for their sacrifice as I am.