I know I mentioned last time that I am watching Star Trek the Original Series from episode one. The thing that I always forget is how much I love these characters. Captain Kirk with his cowboy diplomacy (which is my ultimate favorite diplomacy) to Spock with his unflappable logic and stoicism, except when he thinks he killed Jim and then finds out he’s actually alive. Bones with his dry wit and sarcasm, when he allows his facade to crack, a southern accent that would do Kellie Rasberry proud. Scotty with his love and loyalty to the ship, the Enterprise might be Captain Kirk’s wife, but she is Scotty’s true love. Lieutenant Uhura, one of my first role models, a woman, on the bridge of a starship. One who carried herself with confidence and also a hint of humor.
I love all of them, a lot of life lessons can be learned from watching these shows. From issues with your parents not approving of your life choices, Sarek not approving of Spock joining Star Fleet, the age old I want you to be like me. It seems no planet is immune from that age old struggle.
Captain Jame T. Kirk, a chick magnet, I know that is not PC, but that is what he was. He had a different woman in every port, on every planet and in-between. We loved watching his swagger, his confidence, his commanding presence. Who didn’t want to be one of those women? Not me because I was only 4 when the show came out.
I wanted Spock to be my dad, I was positive when I was mischievous I would be dealt a healthy dose of logic. Not the sit in your chair and you can’t watch television for an evening punishment.
As I grew older I wanted to grow up to travel on a starship, I don’t know if I will ever get to achieve that dream. I feel we are getting closer, perhaps Tess will see it in her lifetime.
I wanted to meet an alien life form, I wanted to be the first to greet them on earth.
I have always been drawn to strong characters, I wanted to be them, Uhura, Sheena Queen of the Jungle, the first girl Musketeer, protector of a king in the form of a dora milaje, Mata Hari girl spy, saving the day. I wanted to be a singer, a dancer, a writer, Star Trek started all of that.
The show taught me I could dream, I could reach for the moon and land among the stars. It taught me logic, it taught me tolerance, it taught me unification, lessons this earth desperately needs. Perhaps a healthy dose of Star Trek is in the cards for everyone.
Make is mandatory watching in every pre-school, while the special effects are dated. I mean it premiered in 1968, the stories are solid, the ideas are enduring and Captain Kirk is still a chick magnate.
Once I am done with this series I will move on and re-watch Star Trek the Next Generation. Where we have a captain that is more refined, a first officer that has more swagger and bravado than should be legal, and rocks a beard magnificently.
I highly recommend Star Trek for everyone, of all ages. As usual you can leave any comments, questions or criticisms here or send them to angie@angieworld.com. I would love to know who your favorite character is and if any of them influenced your life.
Angie World 