Lately, I’ve stopped saying “it can’t get any crazier”… because, well, it can—and usually does. Some of the headlines this week felt almost surreal—like we’ve entered a new level of “really?”
So instead, I found myself drawn to something entirely different. Something better.
Enter Artemis II.
What an extraordinary accomplishment for science, exploration, and humanity. Four astronauts—each bringing different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences—spent days together in incredibly tight quarters, navigating not just the technical demands of the mission, but the human side of it as well. In an environment where tension would be understandable, they instead modeled something remarkable: teamwork, respect, and genuine appreciation for one another.
And when they returned, what stood out wasn’t just what they accomplished—but how they experienced it.
I came across a quote from Jeremy Hansen, one of the astronauts on this diverse mission, that really made an impression on me. He described how his crew made a conscious commitment to get “back on the joy train” whenever they drifted off it.
Not always easy. Not always natural. But intentional.
And then he said something even more powerful: that what people saw in them—their connection, their gratitude, their joy—was really just a reflection of ourselves. He said,
“This is you.”
That line stayed with me because it reminds me of Rotary.
When I think about our club meeting this past week—over 100 people gathered to celebrate the winners of our Write the Rockies contest—I saw that same reflection.
I saw middle school students, high school students, and adults bravely sharing their words - in both English and Spanish. I saw families beaming with pride. I saw a community leaning in—listening, laughing, and, yes, tearing up.
As one of the high school poetry judges, I can tell you—these young writers are extraordinary. The depth of emotion, the courage, the honesty—it made scoring incredibly difficult. And hearing the winning pieces read aloud - again, in English and Spanish? There were moments that brought tears, and others that had the whole room laughing out loud.
It was one of those mornings you don’t forget.
And what struck me most was the beautiful diversity in that room—age, background, perspective—all woven together through creativity and shared experience. It was Summit County at its very best.
A reminder.
That even when the world feels noisy, chaotic, or just plain overwhelming…there is still so much goodness. So much humanity. So much to celebrate.
And we get to be part of it.
So here’s my note to self—and to anyone who might need it:
Look for the good.
Look for the humanity.
Look for the celebrations.
And when you find yourself off track…hop back on the Joy Train.
Because that—right there—is us.
With warm Rotary hugs,
EPIC Campus
