the kind of legacy we dream and teach about // artemis ii

As a history professor, I spend my days teaching about the people who changed the world… and many are stories of the ones who never got to see the full impact of what they started.

I often talk about legacy in past tense. The ones that risked everything and were heroes... all in the hopes that as I teach my students will study and analyze and be inspired to change the world in which they are living for the better... that they can be heroes for future generations. Many times it is in past tense... but these past 2 weeks a beautiful story came along that we all go to observe and live in the middle of (to the moon and back). 

The crew of Artemis II— Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen—(and Rise :)) - thank you. As I and millions around the world watched live feeds, interviews, laughed at the humor, had tears at the beauty, and gathered with loved ones to celebrate your successful return to your loved ones and earth, we had tears. You have done what history has always required of heroes- stepping courageously forward before the outcome was certain and believing that the future of humanity was worth the sacrifices anyway. 

And in doing so, you also inspired millions, including my students and myself. In my classroom these past few weeks, history has come alive because of the character of the people you are and the inspiration that you have given. By bringing us along we witnessed the beauty of the world beyond our planet earth, the incredible things we can accomplish as humans if we work together, and the things that are most important in life. 

You have taken us to the moon and back and sparked curiosity and wonder and reminded an entire world what it looks like to aim further than possible with great sacrifice and with great character and respect and humility. Your legacy is one that I truly believe will not be forgotten but generations from now will tell the story of four incredible people that showed not only what was possible but what the best of humanity can be. From one history professor- and one of the millions of people you have inspired, thank you. 

A huge thank you to NASA, the CSA, and the thousands of other people who also made Artemis ii mission successful. And a most humble thank you to all of the families...how do you say "thank you" for your sacrifice and your courage to encourage your loved ones to go? The world is indebted to you forever.