Just Short of Glory

sapphire view port ... the ocean of stars glistened like a million sun sprites on the sea yet the sea was not near as cold ... or deep and despite it's bounty its mysteries were not remotely as compelling the Universe had tugged at his heart since his earliest memories and now far-space exploration was a reality his wildest dreams come to fruition and HE was at the helm ... all it required was a push of the 'ignition' button and yet he couldn't find the will ... for everything he loved - everyONE - was here, on Earth ... and due to the sacrifices of inter-stellar travel (and the bending of the continuum) they would be long-dead when he returned there was no turning back many others depended on him and the success of this mission and its goals too much money had been spent far too much sacrificed to change it all now and still ... he could not press the button little eyes shined in his mind little eyes that wept as little hearts broke when they said goodbye to him ... and how his heart ached for their mother all they'd been through together the moonlit nights and daylight laughs and crazy trips but this was his dream the dream of all humanity, really and all that he had worked for, for so very long he could NOT back down, not now that's why he'd been chosen - his character ... his resolve his dedication to the project and yet ... the button sat untouched the pad remained uncharred no rumble of the engines no roar of the fuel ignited his finger trembling over the red switch ... as the world ... held its collective breath. ~ 1st Place ~ in the "Completely Your Choice 12, Any Theme, Any Form" Poetry Contest, Brian Strand, Judge & Sponsor.