Once Upon A Time In Nelusma City by Werley Nortreus - HTML preview

Chapter 4

I Start Sketching The Rocket

On the same Monday that I presented my rocket project to my class, I was also finalizing the rocket plan.

Later, after some time at home, I found myself in the attic, where I was completing the sketching of the rocket outline and design.

“I have sketched the wooden rocket; now it's time to create the design for the actual iron rocket so I can venture into Space,” I thought as I entered my attic room, a space where I often immerse myself in books. This attic was filled with books, toys, flower vases, chairs, and a large table. It was on this table or desk that I laid out a large sheet of white paper to begin sketching the rocket design.

As an Architecture student, I found great joy in starting the design process on the sketching paper.

Although I wasn't an Artist or Painter, my background as an Architect made it a natural expectation.

“Mother! Father! I am going to make you guys proud!”

“Can I start with the sketching?” I said, feeling urgently, “I can't afford to waste any time.”

Immediately, I began sketching my ideas for the rocket.

In fact, I dedicated nearly two hours to sketching, planning, and refining the rocket concept.

I feel a wave of happiness washed over me when I finally completed the rocket design and all the accompanying plans.

Then I took a brief break and headed downstairs to the living room to watch a documentary about rockets launched into Space by various Space and Science agencies. “Fantastic! I’m finished!” I exclaimed, “Wow! I really did it!” I felt the need to congratulate myself. “I can hardly wait to start building this magnificent rocket!” I repeated with excitement.

The rocket sketch featured a color scheme of blue and white, which I had chosen. While many people place their faith in Science, I also hold other beliefs, though I do not dismiss Science.

A few minutes after I had sketched the rocket plan, I went downstairs to enjoy a documentary while savoring some delicious pâté.

“Haha! Why is it that all the documentaries and tapes I watch depict Astronauts facing failures?” I pondered, “Do Astronauts truly travel to Space and walked on the Moon?”

“God, have mercy on us!”

“However, everything happens for a reason.”

“I may not understand why their plans are always blocked, but you know the reason.”

“As strange as it may sound, I have my trust in God!” I reiterated. “Who am I to question you God?” I added.

A short while later, as evening approached and it was nearly late, I stepped outside to launch firecrackers and fireworks into the Sky, an activity that consistently frustrates my neighbors, particularly the older residents.

The fireworks were creating quite a commotion in the vicinity, prompting some neighbors to chase after me due to the noise.

The first neighbors who called out to me were in their yard tending to some flowers, an elderly white woman and a man.

I generally get along well with everyone who lives nearby; if there are any who dislikes me, that is their concern, not mine. “You fool.”

“Please stop the noise.”

“Can you refrain from setting off these fireworks?” The elderly white man, who was with his wife watering the flowers, shouted at me to express their discontent. “Why don't you stop that?”

“Why don't you make noise elsewhere?”

“Leave us alone!” The elderly white lady reiterated loudly.

“Okay! I apologize!”

“I am truly sorry!”

“Please don't worry, it was merely an experiment!” I replied to soothe them. “I don't get this young man.”

“He is always setting off fireworks.” The elderly man remarked to his wife.

Indeed, the old man is correct; I am aware that I frequently set off firecrackers and fireworks in the area, but my intention is not to disturb anyone.

I felt quite pleased to avoid any disputes with the elderly woman and man, as a matter of respect, although they were quite bothersome.

Without a moment's pause, I stepped into the house and made my way to my room.

“Come on, God!” I called out, “Give me a chance!” as I ascended the stairs to my room.

“I've been aware of your existence since childhood, right?”

“If you are indeed real, please provide me with a sign!”

“I implore you! Let me see you!” I repeatedly said.

Upon entering my room late at night, I settled down and picked up a book to read.

As I immersed myself in the pages, I remembered my father's words, which he once shared with me: Dreams are always attainable when they are provided with will, discipline, and honesty.

Indeed, it resonated with me, as I remembered him saying, “Dreams are always attainable when they are provided with will, discipline, and honesty.”

As I rested there, the thought that empowered me the most and fueled my determination to construct the rocket and venture into Space. “You know what, Father?”

“You are correct!”

“Indeed! You are completely correct!” I replied.