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In Memory of Carl Sagan

As recently as early 2006 I was a very spiritual person, a Christian, with a strong feeling of connectedness to Jesus Christ. I was also, and always have been, very interested in the paranormal. My bookshelf is littered with books about ghosts, UFOs, Bigfoot, lake monsters and other, typical, paranormal fare.

I had a tendency to believe.

Lately my mind is changing. I'm not exactly sure when I made the conscious decision to think for myself, but I'm glad I did. One inspiring astronomer has made it possible for me to be in awe of this world and it's real mysteries, without following the often delusional pursuits of religion and the paranormal.

Carl Sagan, one man responsible for making scientific truth more attractive, and accessible, to the public, is the reason I am on the most adventurous quest of my life: to learn about our world, and enjoy every minute of it while I'm here.

After reading Sagan's book, "The Demon Haunted World — Science as a candle in the dark," I was transformed. His understanding of human nature, combined with his understanding of our world and universe, and his explanations for the many things and reasons humans believe, or misconceive, helped to broaden my own understanding.

As a result I no longer hold the same opinions about the paranormal that I used to. I have curbed my belief in UFOs, Bigfoot, and other entities of the "unknown." Carl Sagan, and other science-minded and inquiring personalities show that there is plenty to learn. The more we know, the less mysterious the unknown.

I'm enlightened, and I owe it mainly to Carl Sagan. Actually, I owe it to a friend who let me borrow "The Demon Haunted World," because if he didn't have it I may not have gone out of my way to find it on my own.

So, thanks Jerry!

Carl Sagan passed away on December 20, 1996. His legacy will live on, continuing to influence and educate. Don't sit there in the dark, turn to science, it's more than just the way to the truth, it's fun, even cool! Science tackles mysteries of our world and the cosmos. Mysteries for which there are answers, and proof to behold.

Drew Vics — 12-27-06