It's important not to become the slave of expectation. Real suffering caused by external forces exists in this world, no doubt about it, but there also exists that kind of torment derived primarily from within. The only reason someone gets upset about being late is because they didn't expect to be late. If instead they already thought they were going to be late - that is, had there been no expectation about being prompt - then in that case things would simply be developing as expected. So one good tool for solving frustration is to examine those expectations brought to bear on a situation and adapt them accordingly.

Thusly do I free myself from a recent, growing frustration that perhaps you share. It's clear any expectation was in error that we'd get some sort of resolution to the NASA conundrum sooner rather than later. The best plan then seems to be, flip the expectation: Gee, I'm glad there's been no decision yet! I've no hope whatsoever in it happening any day soon. The longer it goes, the better it will be!

Maybe it helps that I've not given up faith in the process. Along with all the excitement of being the Decider comes the responsibility to actually Decide, and so far it seems the current office holder takes the responsibility seriously. I don't pretend to understand the silent savagery of big politics ("warfare concealed"), and a deeper comprehension of the human issues involved may be well rewarded with a healthy dose of patience. Elements of higher concern like defense and economy take understandable priority.

Of course, on some issues of significance that are glaringly obvious to everyone else, the United States assumes the most illogical, recalcitrant stance almost designed to accentuate ignorant, obstinate self-detriment. Space exploration sometimes is sadly, strangely one of those issues even while looking around the world it's clear the rest of the planet remains actively engaged with space exploration.

There's certainly an option available to continue postponing the decision regarding programs that day by day more desperately need direction if not encouragement. There's certainly an option available to deflate any inspiration delivered to schoolchildren bedazzled about a future they won't inherit because the money was needed for others to mismanage without leaving anything (not even footprints and flags) as a legacy. But I don't expect that to be the case. I remain optimistic the decision will be appropriate, even if the suspense involved with waiting is excruciating. Let it take time, lad. I hope it lasts.


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