A Trip Down Under
Just back from a few weeks in Australia. Had a wonderful time. We did Sydney, Cairns, Alice Springs, and Ayers Rock. What a beautiful country. But, of course, no more beautiful than the USA. And no more beautiful than some other countries I’ve been to.
The cities are clean and efficiently operated. But no cleaner or more efficient than many US cities or other cities around the world.
I had an outstanding experience scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef just out of Cairns. It was truly great, but not any better than many dives here in the US.
Of the many great things about Australia there is one, however, that really stands out. The people! The people are just great. They are the most open, friendly folks I’ve ever run into, and I’ve been just about everywhere.
So, when you come in contact with Australians here in the US, be super nice to them. They deserve it.
One of the highlights of our trip to Australia occurred on the Memphis to Los Angeles leg. Sitting one row in front of us on the other side was Buzz Aldrin on his way home from a speaking engagement and book signing. I controlled myself for the entire trip out and left him alone. But when we got to LA and I found myself standing next to him waiting for our bags to hit the carousel, I could not resist. I butted into the conversation he was having with his companion and stuck my hand out.
I told him he was one of the few men I might have reason to envy just a little. And it’s true. I certainly wouldn’t trade lives with him. He’s had some pretty rough times, particularly after his trip to the moon. But can you imagine what a hoot it must have been to ride a Saturn rocket to the moon?
So, Dr. Aldrin, I apologize for interrupting your conversation (he was really nice about it), but it was worth it to me to be able to pump your hand. And yes, I went to the bookstore and got an autographed copy of your new book.