I was born three days after the launch of 
Sputnik, in 1957.  I've watched almost the entire 
manned space program over the years -- everything 
from hours of miserable black and white TV 
coverage of the ocean as they retrieved Gemini 
capsules to the unbelievably exhilarating sight 
of Neil Armstrong stepping onto the moon to the 
horrendous moment we all saw yesterday.  

The Columbia's crew were all within a few years 
of my age, and all grew up with the same joy and 
excitement of space exploration that I 
experienced.  I know they felt as I do, that any 
risk involved with the space program is worth 
it.  This exemplifies the best in humankind.

I have no space cels, and none that adequately 
express what I feel about yesterday's disaster.  
I just prefer to remember Columbia from 1981, 
returning to the Earth from her maiden voyage...
a beautiful white bird coasting gracefully to a 
landing, carrying all of mankind's greatest and 
highest aspirations with her.