I have no scholarly credentials in the field of meteoritics. Perhaps the rigors of my academic pursuits in economics, and a lifetime study of classical music have helped me absorb and understand the essential chemistry, physics and biology required to appreciate a rock from space. A passion for all natural things has fueled my contributions to this field. Blast-off came in 1994, when I realized that meteorites weren’t just for museums anymore. I bought a slice of Zagami (Mars) from Robert Haag, and that magical talisman launched an interest in the cross-disciplines of meteorite study. This interest in meteoritics has sent me around the world in their search, into national archives to clarify their history, and into laboratories and museums to write about the work of those handling them professionally. My life’s greatest privilege has been to be mentored by O Richard Norton, and still by Joel Schiff, two multi-talented embodiments of renaissance men. Offering thanks to them is not enough, I’m obligated to be worthy of their efforts. I wish to promote the core values of resolute curiosity for the unknown and respect for the material. For those who wonder if they can make a contribution to our exciting hobby, I refer you to a line from a Tom Petty song…. The sky is wide open.