But when I wasn't working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.
Sally RideRead
So most astronauts getting ready to lift off are excited and very anxious and worried about that explosion - because if something goes wrong in the first seconds of launch, there's not very much you can do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Astronauts face significant anxiety and risk before launch, recognizing the importance of courage in the face of danger.
This quote by Sally Ride highlights the emotional complexity that astronauts experience before a launch. It captures the intertwining feelings of excitement, anxiety, and fear of failure in a critical moment. The reality of space missions is underscored by the recognition that anything can go wrong during launch, requiring profound courage from those involved, as they commit to an endeavor with high stakes and limited control over the outcome.
Themes
AstronautsCourageLaunchAnxietyRisk
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote during a speech about overcoming fears in high-risk jobs.
More from Sally Ride
All quotes βWhen the space shuttle's engines cut off, and you're finally in space, in orbit, weightless... I remember unstrapping from my seat, floating over to the window, and that's when I got my first view of Earth. Just a spectacular view, and a chance to see our planet as a planet.
Sally RideRead
All adventures, especially into new territory, are scary.
Sally RideRead
I did not come to NASA to make history.
Sally RideRead
Yes, I did feel a special responsibility to be the first American woman in space.
Sally RideRead
Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.
Sally RideRead
Similar quotes
It often takes more courage to change one's opinion than to stick to it.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
Thereβs no way Iβm going to put myself through Sandhurst and then sit on my arse back home while my boys are out fighting for their country.
Prince HarryRead
I believe a time will come when an opportunity will be offered to abolish this lamentable evil. Everything we do is to improve it, if it happens in our day; if not, let us transmit to our descendants, together with our slaves, a pity for their unhappy lot and an abhorrence of slavery.
Patrick HenryRead
Fear not! Stand your ground... the Lord himself will fight for you; you have only to keep still.
MosesRead
Demons run when a good man goes to war. Night will fall and drown the sun when a good man goes to war. Friendship dies and true love lies. Night will fall and the dark will rise when a good man goes to war. Demons run but count the cost; the battle's won but the child is lost.
Steven MoffatRead
The threat is generally more terrifying than the thing itself.
Saul AlinskyRead