Humanity advances on a time line of discovery. We dare to hope, occasionally paying a price for our longing. In the shadow of this morning’s terrible tragedy, in our shock and sorrow, may we honor those who have given their lives in the quest to push the human race forward. Ours is a greater existential understanding because of their contributions.
Soon, we will re-dedicate ourselves to the quest in which they led us, exploring with wonder and gratitude the universe. We will again scale the unimaginable heights of space exploration, continuing among other endeavors to build an international space station to act as shared adventure between peoples. We will travel to other worlds, and surprise ourselves at the technological advancements made in the effort. We will one day look back on human history from a position of wisdom and understanding with awe, amazement, and thankfulness at the achievements of our race.
Today, however, we will mourn.