By Russell Williams

I’m sure those of you who saw or listened to the news coverage of the launch of the Shuttle Atlantis on the 8th July; which was NASA’s last shuttle launch; were amazed not only at the achievements of space exploration, but that 30 years had passed since some of us watched the launch of shuttle Columbia back in April 1981. As I reflected, I asked myself “has 30 years passed already?” not that I would say it seemed like yesterday, but it certainly didn’t seem like 30 years ago! Was it so long ago that my dad and I made that Airfix replica of the Columbia shuttle craft?

And it was this memory of my childhood and in particular doing something with my father that was crystal clear in my mind. I am not so old as I tell people and I remember much of my childhood and have many memories of my dad, some pleasant and some not so. I remember distinctly not appreciating everything my father did for and to us as he did his best to raise my brothers and I. But as I matured and learned from other men who did not have the benefit of their fathers being around to guide, shape and influence their lives I began to appreciate my dad’s efforts more.

And I have on more than one occasion given him his props while he’s still alive and told him that I can appreciate that while he wasn’t perfect, and while I didn’t always agree or appreciate his efforts, I know he did his best and I am grateful.

The shuttle launch wasn’t the only occasion I had to recall my dad recently, while searching for something I came across an instruction manual for an electronic device that he and I had made many decades ago. As I reflect it is these positive experiences and not any perceived or real shortcomings my dad had that I remember and cherish!

I have listened to many young men and women too, lament the absence of their fathers; how they were never there in their lives and so on, but I have a different experience. So while this may well be the end of NASA’s shuttle missions, it has started a new mission for me as a parent. It has focused my mind to ensuring that I too provide as many positive memories for my children.

While we may complain about our lot as children (and yes I had to walk to school, up hill both ways), none of this has anything to do with our obligation to our children and providing teachable and lasting experiences for them. So what experiences will our children have as they look back and think “that was twenty years ago?”

Photo Columbia-landing diorama:Courtesy George Ting

One Response to “NASA’s Last Shuttle Mission – Brings back Childhood Memories”

1. Caribbean Man
   July 20th, 2011 @ 4:02 pm

   Food for thought for all parents

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