A while ago I came across my ACT application from high school. One question asked about your career interests. I actually put “Astronomer” as the reply. I was a little surprised at this since I had not been intensely involved in astronomy as a youth. From high school until age 35, astronomy was one of those “I would like to learn more about that but don’t have time” things. Then Comet Shoemaker-Levy graced the skies. This unique event was the stimulant that brought astronomy back into my life. The intellectual challenge of astronomy was and has always been very addictive. My problem was that no one I knew had a telescope, or at least knew how to use the one they had. After researching telescopes, I did what 85% of most newbies do, I bought a 10” SCT. The pictures in Sky and Tel were just gorgeous. I had also had a budding interest in photography, but nothing serious. The two interests, astronomy and photography, were quickly forming an alliance, little did I know the challenges that lie ahead. The learning curve is very steep for each, let alone the two together. But the desire was strong. I realized the desire was not just for the sake of overcoming the challenges, but it was more. I wanted to share with others the beauty of God’s awesome creation. Yes, the Hubble telescope does this quite nicely, but it is another thing to meet someone that demonstrates dedication and passion to an objective where the goal is to present God’s greatness in the finest possible way.

My mother planted the seeds of God’s love for me as she drug me to the Prince of Peace Freewill Baptist Church nearly every Sunday. My wife, Marsha, demonstrates the love of Christ to me on a daily basis and led me to ask Jesus to be my savior. My witness to others is simple. I believe God created it all. I believe Jesus is the Son of God. I believe the same power and love that created this universe is available to me through the Holy Spirit. God’s grace has saved me through the sacrifice of his Son. I hope you consider the greatness of God and accept His great love for you as you are truly a special part of His creation.