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Against All Odds
Introduction
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Charleston, South Carolina
August 20, 2017
As the thick, oppressive summer night enveloped the world outside, my hotel room pillow bore silent witness to the turmoil within as I tossed and turned with cold sweat, trying to sleep. The weight of the coming day pressed heavily on me.
Tomorrow, millions of people around the world will watch my every move on NASA Television as I lead a nationwide broadcast team to deliver hours of live reporting about the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse crossing the United States on August 21. For some, the thought of leading the most watched science lesson ever taught might have been a source of comfort. But for me, it was anything but reassuring.
My role as moderator of the television broadcast was clear, working with the experienced staff and volunteers at NASA's mission control in Charleston: to share one of nature's most spectacular displays. I would need to lead enthusiastically and calmly, navigating the unpredictable mechanics of live television, where any mishap could spell on-air disaster.
My mind waged a relentless battle against itself that night. Any failure would be an unthinkable outcome, not just for me but for the millions tuning in -- especially people of color -- who I believed would reflect their potential and aspirations in me. Each imagined scenario of disaster heightened the chaos within. Could a single misstep not only end my nearly 40-year career but also let down those who believed in me?
Being a seasoned and recognized face on NASA TV who had created the popular catchphrase "Science Never Sleeps" provided some reassurance. Still, I wrestled with my demons and the weight of my responsibilities. I couldn't help but wonder: “How could I, of all people, falter?”
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August 21 dawned. Total focus after relentless preparation…
As I settled into the anchor chair, a flood of memories washed over me, a testament to decades of overcoming adversity, confronting racism, and battling personal doubts. The intensity of it all invoked a feeling akin to staring down death as if my life flashed before my eyes.
As the camera lights blazed to life against the backdrop of our outside stage in the sweltering heat, an inner voice questioned my place in this moment. Yet, standing at the threshold of this monumental task, I realized this was not just about proving myself. It was about embracing the opportunity to inspire and show others how one can transcend doubt and adversity with determination, preparation, and support.
The television director's confident voice jolts me back to reality.
“This is NASA's Super Bowl, Dwayne, and you're the play-by-play announcer. You got this! Have a great show in 10, 9, 8…”
As the camera lights’ glare surrounded me, a disturbing inner voice emerged, murmuring: “How many watching this broadcast will ask, ‘How did he get THAT job?’”