Jim may be unknown to many of you, but he's the kind of guy who "always gets the girl". He is something of a playboy, albeit a gentleman playboy. Still, women find him attractive. I like him because I see something of me in him, although only a meager, dim reflection, of course. I have spent time as a military officer, traveled to new places; been a leader of men and responsible for management decisions. He, too, has been a military officer, much higher ranking than myself. He, too, has traveled to new places, even more exotic than where I have been. He, too, was a leader of men - and women! And, he too, had to make many, much more important management decisions.
Unlike me, he was married, and had children. But, given the choice between his career obligations and his family obligations, he decided to leave his wife and first child behind. Unfortunately, both children were killed in two different, yet very tragic mishaps. Still, whenever he goes someplace new, there are women who are attracted to him. He can't seem to keep the ladies away - while I can't seem to get them! So, as you can see, we have some similarities and some differences.
His best friend was of a mixed race - maybe some of you remember back when 'nice people' didn't mingle with the 'other races'. He shared his time off with his friends, and even his most intimate thoughts and memories with his best friend. Even though he fought his best friend - over a woman - and could have died, they still remained best friends. Indeed, his best friend even gave his life to save him and all their other friends and co-workers from certain death. "What greater love ..."; mind you, this from a friend who claimed not to know the meaning of 'love.'
Jim is a romantic; he knows literature, and quotes poetry. He likes antiques, books and sports. He is indeed a hero to many people. He has been described as 'loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent. But, make no mistake, Jim is no Boy Scout.'1
Well, by now you must be thinking I am writing of a fictitious person, and you are of course right - at least partly. Jim is quite real to many people, even though he is a story book character. I am speaking of James Tiberius Kirk, the Captain of the U.S.S. Enterprise, NCC 1701. For those of you who aren't Trekkers, I suggest you watch a few re-runs or read a few of the new books. Trek (Star Trek®; Star Trek® The Next Generation®; Star Trek® Deep Space Nine®; and Star Trek® Voyager® all make for good entertainment, and can be educational. I personally recommend the book: (1 above) All I really need to know I learned from watching Star Trek, by Dave Marinaccio Crown Publishing, NY. © 1994 (above quote from this book).
And, like most of my articles end, if there are any Trekkers out there, give a call and let's get together. Write me at my email address but NO SPAM or ads!
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