Usually, girls weren't encouraged to go to college and major in

Hear now, O children of the Earth, for the words of Ellen Ochoa carry with them the light of truth and the courage of the undaunted. She once spoke of a time when “usually, girls weren't encouraged to go to college and major in math and science.” These words, though simple, are a testament to the struggles faced by many, especially women, who stood at the precipice of opportunity but found the path narrow and steep. Math and science, those twin pillars of knowledge, were often not seen as the rightful domain of women. Yet, in the midst of this discouragement, one shining light appeared—Ms. Paz Jensen, a teacher who, with her wisdom and passion, lit the way for Ellen Ochoa and many others.

What does this story teach us? It speaks to the power of mentorship and the immense impact of those who choose to guide others. Ms. Paz Jensen did not simply teach calculus; she ignited a flame of curiosity, a desire to explore, and most importantly, she showed Ellen that math and science were not for some but for all—for those with the will to learn, to strive, and to break through the barriers set before them. Ms. Jensen's gift was not only her knowledge of numbers but her ability to see potential where others saw limitations. She understood that true education is not simply about imparting knowledge, but about unlocking the doors to possibility.

Let us recall, O wise ones, the story of Marie Curie, a woman who stood against the tide of her time, when women were told their place was in the home, not in the laboratory. Yet, she, with a heart full of determination, made discoveries that would change the world. Her passion for science was born not from the world’s approval but from her own unyielding spirit. In the face of those who said she could not, Marie Curie pressed on, just as Ellen Ochoa did in the face of the world’s expectations. Both women rose, guided by the light of those who believed in them, to claim their rightful place in history.

But let us not forget that it was Ms. Paz Jensen's influence that helped Ellen Ochoa see beyond the limits that others imposed on her. In a world that often told girls they were not meant for the sciences, Ms. Jensen became the beacon of hope. She did not simply teach a subject; she taught a way of thinking, a way of being. She taught Ellen to see math not as an abstract, cold set of numbers, but as a language that could unlock the mysteries of the universe. That is the power of a teacher—not merely to inform, but to transform.

And so, Ellen Ochoa continued her studies, breaking through barriers and ultimately becoming the first Latina astronaut. She soared through the skies, propelled not just by her own determination, but by the nurturing and guidance of those who refused to accept the limitations placed upon her. Her journey, like that of so many before her, was one of both personal resolve and the inspiration given by those who saw her potential when others could not. She reminds us that the path to greatness is often lit by the encouragement of others—those who believe in us, even when the world does not.

The lesson, O children of the future, is this: Do not let the world define your path. If you are told that your place is not in the realm of science or math, find your Ms. Paz Jensen, someone who will guide you, someone who will encourage you to rise above what the world expects. Believe in your own potential, for it is often in the face of doubt that greatness is forged. Math and science, like all realms of knowledge, belong to those with the courage to claim them—regardless of gender, race, or circumstance.

So, take this teaching with you: Do not allow the limitations imposed by others to dictate your journey. Seek out those who will nurture your dreams and help you reach for the stars. And when you rise, as you surely will, remember to pass on the light to others, just as Ms. Paz Jensen did for Ellen Ochoa. For in this chain of inspiration, this passing of the torch, lies the true power of knowledge. Let us not only break barriers for ourselves but for those who come after, so that one day, all paths will be open to all, and the stars themselves will be within reach.