I could finally escape into a world I KNEW was real. Bones, Sulu, Lieutenant Uhura, Scottie, Captain Kirk and Commander Spock became my crew in a black and white world. The first show took us to an archaeological out post and introduced us to the basic characters and the Enterprise's mission.
Many girls swooned over Captain Kirk but I, always wanting to be different, followed Spock's every controlled logical move.
Friday nights, at the age of eleven, became my night for an hour of tv. Chores, homework, and any extras I may have been required to do were all finished long before the viewing time of 6:30 PM.
For three years I knew women could be in charge, all species are different and may or may not be able to interact peacefully. I learned how to appear emotionless. I knew I could be a valuable member of this crew daring to go where no man (or woman) had gone before. I became pretty good with the Vulcan Salute but I never mastered the Mind Meld.
I often wondered why it stopped a month before we walked on the moon...
In three short years it was over but then there were reruns! I continued to be a closet Trekkie and watched every episode almost with reverence. Spin offs began and I devoutly followed those along with the movies.
My children were forced to watch Star Trek when we bought our first color tv. They were not fans like me, a strong dyed-in-the-wool Trekkie.
I attended one movie in the theater with a friend twenty years my junior who was also a rabid fan. The lobby was alive. People were talking my language! I knew all the episodes and could converse enjoyably with all who wanted to talk. The Menagerie was my favorite all time episode. I felt uplifted and validated. The lobby was filled with people like me! Different ages but all with one thought in mind...where would Roddenberry take us next.
When Leonard Nimoy passed an age ended for me. The shows have lost their luster. Even if Mr. Nimoy was blessed and cursed while being remembered as the half Vulcan Commander of the Star Ship Enterprise, he did great works. He soldiered, he taught, he wrote poetry and books and acted in plays and produced.
His last tweet to his fans was "A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP"
Thank you, Mr Nimoy, for giving wings to my dreams. May those who remain Live Long and Prosper.
