My condolences
 

I just wish to express my condolences to the American people and the families of the astronauts, regarding today's tragic events. How fragile life really is.

Yes, it is indeed a sad tragedy, and please don't think me &quot;hard and cold&quot; for what I'm about to say. But we must realize that these people were doing something very, very risky. We sometimes forget what a truly dangerous mission this space travel is. It should not be unexpected that tragedy will happen just like with the Challenger before this.<BR> <BR>To be perfectly honest (and again I am truly sorry for the families) I am more moved by the loss of people who are innocently gunned down, killed in automobile crashes on the highway, or any of a number of other accidents. I am less bothered by people who do things like drive race cars and get killed -- that is risky business also and sooner or later it catches up. When you take a great risk, you must be prepared to suffer the consequences.

Edna, I think you not 'hard and cold', just inappropriate. People died. If you care to rank them above or below those that don't get on a rocket booster, that's fine but have some decency and hold your tongue. The question was not &quot;Who do you feel sorry for when they die&quot;. In fact there was no question.<BR><BR>Back to the thread, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and those who knew these brave people.

Edna-Your remark was not only inappropriate it was crass.<BR><BR>Thank you Julie. My prayers are also with the families, their friends and the employees of NASA who are such a close knit group.

Ah yes, but greatness is only ever achieved by taking risks.<BR><BR>Ken

My thoughts go out to the families as well, thank you JulieC for your condolences.

This is a tragedy. My son looks up to astronauts and loves everything about the space program. The number one reason I support the space program is because it inspires our children. <BR>My thoughts and prayers are with them.