“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.
Armstrong’s accomplishments are simply astounding. I have no other words that would suffice. Great write up.
Armstrong, he made me dream an impossible dream when I was a kid. I was wanting t o be an astronaut, when I grow up I found out that it is not that easy. Well–he is always on my -people-that-I-salute-to-list
I heard on the radio today, I don’t know if its true, or if you heard it, that the gang actually took communion up on the moon. Its incredible.
Here is the article, written by Buzz Aldrin. Talk about deep! Can you imagine?
“An Astronaut Tells of a little-known but Significant Event on the Moon”
http://www.ericmetaxas.com/writing/essays/buzz-aldrin-guideposts-article-full-text/
Thanks!
He was a true universal hero.He inspired all mankind.
R.I.P for Mr. Amstrong
He was the first astronaut I learned about in school, even before Alan Shepard. A true hero, and the measure of inspiration for all of our achievements in space.
~Godspeed!
Beautiful post. What powerful history!
😦
Although I never made it into space, my IC designs, and parts built by my company for NASA are in space, so to a small degree, I made a connection to my childhood heroes.
Congrats on being freshly pressed.
Thanks! I love being able to share my love of space with other people.
I know what you mean about being a part of it. I worked on several projects with NASA and it’s an incredible feeling when you know that even in some marginal way you’ve contributed.
good one richard
In a world with far too few legitimate role models it is always so hard to see one go. I was struck by what my 11 year old said on a recent trip to the Smithsonian Air and Space when he saw how simple and relatively low tech the technology was that delivered Neil and his fellow travelers to the moon. He asked how was such a feet possible, and I remarked that it was due to the extraordinary nature of the men that made it so.
I believe that we need to showcase the men and women like Neil and remind the world that, while we may envy the lives of the rich and famous, it is the inspiring and remarkable that we truly celebrate.
The whole world will remember his name for what the outstanding first mankind’s step on the very close friend planet. Rest and Please great hero.
Nicely written! I especially liked reading the tributes to Neil Armstrong from his passing. Congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Thank you! I am sad that it comes from the passing of such a legend, but I am glad that I can share his impacts with everyone.
Armstrong’s modesty and self-effacing nature made his accomplishments all the greater. And now we face the sad loss of a very, very great man.
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He inspired generations. RIP Mr. Armstrong.
An excellent piece on truly inspirational men and their dedication to their calling. Thank you for sharing your role models.
I’ll just say what I said when I shared this. I am choosy in how people remember remarkable people. Though, in addendum, I am choosy as to who is remarkable. This very much meets. Thank you. 🙂
Thank’s to Neil Armstrong
A true inspiration for generations to come, Neil Armstrong was. May his next steps be just as great wherever he may be taking them now.
Reblogged this on Writer Fighter 365/6.
he was truely great
Armstrong is the ulimate proof of the power of taking small steps, and doing your job everyday to the best of your ability. I was saddened to hear of his passing.
What a great tribute to an outstanding man!
Thank you, that was a great right up, of a true legend.
A great post about a great American legend. Salud
Beautiful tribute. The quotes from those who knew him best paint such a cool portrait of a remarkable man.
The person who reads too much and uses his brain too little will fall into lazy habits of thinking. —Albert Einstein
Enjoy it.
Great post! I could not agree more. We need more role models like him!!!
Reblogged this on Some Things Sophie and commented:
R.I.P Neil Armstrong, a legend who will be remembered forever.
Thanks for sharing the video. I’ve never watched it. I love outer space, it just fills me with almost the kind of feeling you get on a roller coaster – the incredible enormity of everything about it. Truly wonder-full. Congrats on FP!
Wonderful post! Thank you so much for sharing, and congrats for being on freshly pressed!
NASA’s accomplishments were a long way ahead of their time.
The machines were so basic when compared with today’s standards.
The courage of the astronauts was awesome.
i no longer believe that the moon landing was real. which doesn’t really change anything.
Astronauts are super high risk jobs. It may just be a trip of no returns.
Fabulous post!! Thanks for sharing your ideas.