From the moment of my first aircraft flight in 1961 aboard a converted military aircraft called “The Pink Cloud” which flew us over the Pacific Ocean from San Francisco to the Hawaiian Islands, I have been transformed into a believer of possibilities. The wonders of the Earth were to be explored and appreciated by all who could reach them. The progression of electronics and television could bring those experiences right into our homes. There I discovered the space endeavors of NASA and the 1st flight to the Moon. I watched the entire televised version of that historic flight and knew that one day I, too, would want to reach for the stars.
In 1969, I discovered Star Trek: The Original Series. This laid the foundation for my love of space, adventure, and science, for which I have strived to achieve throughout my lifetime. It envisioned everything that I wanted to achieve and more. It taught me the importance of learning and always moving forward through adversities. The impossible can become the possible if fortitude, patience, and perseverance are present.
In 1990, I started working as a government contractor under the Department of the US Navy on several different contracts, including the “Tomahawk Cruise Missile” program, then transferring to the US Air Force contract in support of the “Advanced Cruise Missile” program. After being laid off, along with thousands of other wonderful personnel, in 1993, I kept my promise to myself to further my education and earned my Bachelor of Science degree. I went back to work on government contracts, working with the US Navy and the US Marine Corps.
The progression of electronics into the cyber world is not only upon us, but could be considered as passing or beyond us, as humanity currently exists. Our future is ever evolving, and we must watch it at every turn in our exploration of our small universe. Our pure human DNA and its protection might be our only future for the continuation of humankind.
My hope is that one day, we will embark on another planet similar to Earth and begin again. Only this time, we should not be swayed or exploit the planets for profit or power. Dedication to Science should be the primary fundamental discipline. To live in peace - what a concept!
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"RESIDING WITH THE STARS"
A poem by Patricia Marian Lyons
Copyright 2005
Residing with the stars,
My heart shall follow thee.
Upon this earth,
And through eternity.
I long for the time,
We will be going,
To that place we all know,
With angels sublime.
As we look upon the place beneath,
For I am yours,
And you are mine.
Forever isn’t such,
A long, long time.
