OUR VIEW: Columbia astronauts served well

What is happening with their legacy?

Seven adventurous people, full of desire to explore the unknown, perished this week about 40 miles above the United States. They went where so few people have gone before. They ventured into outer space.

Outer space.

Astronauts are the modern pioneers. They set the standard for the way everyone else should be.

They don’t fear, they don’t waver, and they don’t give up.

What if everyone else followed their example?

Earth-grounded people would make a difference. They would cease to fear trying new things.

Imagine how that would change things. Cultures would come together. People would decide they can be friends with people who are different. Others would make their voices heard by elected leaders. Still, others would run for office.

Some people would begin to exercise integrity, and others would put themselves on a higher moral plane. Why not take up a new hobby and not fear what someone else might think?

Begin to value ingenuity, intelligence and innovation. Astronauts are exemplars of all of these things.

People can serve their memories best by breaking out of their proverbial shells. Stretch. Look around. Discover.

This life has so much to offer, and it can leave so quickly. Play hard and make the most of what life sends.

They would do it, and they shouldn’t be the only ones.