The start of the new year is an opportunity to change our perspective. It is a chance to find a different way to look at things. Nancy Grace Roman understood that a significant change in location could offer a whole new view, not only of our world, but the universe.
Nancy Roman joined NASA in 1959, just a few months into the new agency’s existence. She was a mathematician and scientist. She had to work extremely hard to be successful in a field that was dominated by men. She demonstrated this determination to succeed early on when, in high school, she talked a guidance counselor into allowing her to take more math classes, even though the counselor asked her, “What lady would take mathematics instead of Latin?” Nevertheless, Nancy continued to persevere.
During her 20-year career at NASA, Nancy advocated for space-based astronomy. She was convinced that if we somehow placed viewing equipment in space, we would be able to see the universe in a whole new way. She used her skills and energy to help the world see things differently. While at NASA, Nancy helped to develop the Hubble Space Telescope. Through this amazing technology, we have seen the universe in ways that no ground-based telescope could ever see.
The images that we still receive from Hubble today are spectacular. Through Nancy’s work we have gained knowledge about space that we would never have from the ground.
Nancy Roman’s story is an inspiring one. Not only did she work hard to achieve her dreams, but also changed the world by sharing her talents and gifts. Her story reminds all of us that we too can see things differently if we are willing to change our perspective. What do you need to change to better see in 2022?
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
– Helen Howarth Lemmel
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
