As we all know, tomorrow marks the final launch for the Space Shuttle program. Although it is sad to see the closing of a great era, we applaud the great work of many Californians who strengthened the NASA program to better our state, our country and our world. One such California astronaut was Kalpana Chawla. In fact, she was a dear family friend, and my sister had the opportunity to be at Kalpana’s launch on the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. But as we all know, none of the astronauts made it home on that ill-fated trip. Kalpana’s motto was always “Reach for the Stars”. As we watch the final Space Shuttle launch tomorrow, may we always remember to “Reach for the Stars” and for our State and ourselves.
Let us pray:
Eternal God, we pray for our California Senate today and through their deliberations may they “Reach for the Stars” for every Californian. May the work they do here on this floor help all of us to reach our highest best selves. This prayer we pray, Amen.