If we die, do not mourn for us. This is a risky business we're in, and we accept those risks. The space program is too valuable to this country to be halted for too long if a disaster should ever happen.
Gus GrissomRead
No, you sort of have to put that out of your mind. There's always a possibility that you can have a catastrophic failure, of course. This can happen on any flight. It can happen on the last one as well as the first one. You just plan as best you can to take care of all these eventualities, and you get a well-trained crew, and you go fly.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and meticulously planning for potential failures in high-stakes situations.
Gus Grissom's words reflect the mindset required for flying and other high-risk endeavors. He acknowledges the possibility of catastrophic failure but stresses the importance of not letting that fear dominate. Successful navigation of risks involves thorough preparation and reliance on training and teamwork. Grissom's perspective encourages individuals to face their fears while being well-equipped to manage challenges.
Themes
FearPreparationFlightRiskCouragePlanning
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational talk about facing your fears in challenging professions.
More from Gus Grissom
All quotes →If we die, we want people to accept it. We are in a risky business, and we hope that if anything happens to us, it will not delay the program. The conquest of space is worth the risk of life.
Gus GrissomRead
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