“That is one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind.”  – Neil A. Armstrong

A few months ago, on another blog, I wrote a post about people learning from their role models.  At the time, I wasn’t sure I had a clear idea of who mine were, or, more importantly, why I would admire them so much.  Today, with the passing of the American legend Neil Armstrong, I think I finally have an answer.

It’s easy to admire people for what they have had the chance to do.  Neil Armstrong, in case you’ve been living in a cave and hiding from your history books, was the first man to set foot on the moon.  Yuri Gagarin and John Glenn, the first men to orbit the Earth for the Soviet Union and the U.S., respectively.  Their feats are incredible and will stand forever as momentous marks in time.  And while they were not alone in their pursuits, and were supported by equally inspiring teams of dreamers, for their efforts they can be admired for their courage, integrity, and dedication.  As Ronald Reagan once said, “The future doesn’t belong to the fainthearted; it belongs to the brave.”

Recently, however, I was asked why I love to read about Yuri Gagarin.  When I answered that he was the first man in space the person asked again.  I realized that the reason I love to learn more about these men is not necessarily rooted in their record accomplishments.

Yuri Gagarin stood out from his fellow cosmonauts because he was constantly asking questions.  The first time he was introduced to Sergei Korolev (Chief Designer of the U.S.S.R.’s space program) and the Vostok capsule, he made it a point to learn everything he could about the craft he would be in control of.  He was a true engineer.

John Glenn, a former marine, is the epitome of dignity and honor.  He is a natural speaker and was often the spokesman for the Mercury 7.  He carries a presence of old-fashioned values and good nature while being at ease with the public.  But when reporters frightened his wife, Annie, during the early space media hysteria, he was the first to stand between them and protect his home and family.

Neil Armstrong was arguably the most famous astronaut of all time.  His first steps on the moon were watched by millions and he instantly became an American hero.  But, to me, it has been his humility that has stood out all these years I have read about him.  It is simply stated in a quote from his family: “[He] was also a reluctant American hero who always believed he was just doing his job.”  That, I believe, is the key to learning from his life.  That this man was dedicated to his work and his passions, and that it led him to an opportunity beyond what anyone might have believed possible.  And, even after realizing the impossible, maintained that it was simply what was expected of him.

These are some of the people who inspire me.  Of course, there are more like them, each with their own lessons to learn.  To speak of Armstrong: his simple steps opened up an entirely new realm of discovery and permanently defined the idea that “nothing is impossible”.  All by showing up and doing his job.  What can we accomplish by dedicating ourselves to our passions?

In memory of his passing, here are some of the words that have been shared today in celebration of his life.

“I am very saddened to learn of the passing of Neil Armstrong today. Neil and I trained together as technical partners but were also good friends who will always be connected through our participation in the Apollo 11 mission. Whenever I look at the moon it reminds me of the moment over four decades ago when I realized that even though we were farther away from earth than two humans had ever been, we were not alone.” – Buzz Aldrin

“He was the best, and I will miss him terribly.” – Michael Collins

“The passing of Neil Armstrong has shocked all of us at the Johnson Space Center.  The whole world knew Neil as the first man to step foot on the Moon, but to us he was a co-worker, a friend, and an outstanding spokesman for the Human Space Program. His quiet confidence and ability to perform under pressure set an example for all subsequent astronauts. Our role model will be missed.” – Michael Coats

“Neil Armstrong was a very personal inspiration to all of us within the astronaut office.  His historic step onto the Moon’s surface was the foundation for many of our personal dreams to become astronauts. The only thing that outshone his accomplishments was his humility about those accomplishments. We will miss him as a friend, mentor, explorer and ambassador for the American spirit of ingenuity.” – Bob Behnken

“As long as there are history books, Neil Armstrong will be included in them, remembered for taking humankind’s first small step on a world beyond our own.  Besides being one of America’s greatest explorers.  Neil carried himself with a grace and humility that was an example to us all.” – Charles Bolden

“Neil Armstrong was a hero not just of his time, but of all time.  Thank you, Neil, for showing us the power of one small step.” – President Barack Obama

“While we mourn the loss of a very good man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young people around the world to work hard to make their dreams come true, to be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly serve a cause greater than themselves.”  – The Armstrong Family

More can be found here, as well as a gallery of NASA photos.