Interesting collection of views. Let me add that I meant no lack of respect to anyone who was either in the story above, or who felt far removed and superior to it, or anywhere in between. I think all viewpoints have some truth. The point of the initial thread was to point out the dramatic contrast between views, bounded by the same fine little planet out here on the rim of some galaxy somewhere. It is certainly the most interesting spot for parsecs around!

I am reminded of the wonderful story of Flatland, in which the two-dimensional figures were absolutely confounded when they ran into a three-dinmesnional pole, and went half mad trying to figure out what it was. They bounced off it and circled all around it, but they were one dimension short from being able to have an idea what it was. Who knows? Maybe we are bouncing off such a pole even as we speak!! :>)

Regards,

A