An Astronaut’s Tale #4 - Gazing into the Abyss of the Cosmos - The End?

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Two astronauts in futuristic space suits stand on a metallic platform, gazing in awe at a massive black hole and start a metaphysical discussion.

Andrew: So, this is it. Black Hole G393X, the end of everything, swallowing stars, planets, even whole galaxies.

John: Yes, but I disagree with the part “the end of everything”.

Andrew: How so? As soon as all matter enters a black hole, a non reversible destruction mode is initiated, spiraling down to a point of ultimate compression, the singularity.

John: In spiraling down creating a spin and just before reaching singularity, extremely strong torsion forces work fiercely against compression with anti-gravitational forces, resulting in a major bounce. A big bounce so to speak, and galaxies are born again, re-initiating the eternal cycle of expansion and collapse. In fact, I believe, I know that black holes are wormholes to another parallel universe.

Andrew: I heard. Black holes as a new beginning? Not the end? Man, can’t wrap my head around that.

John: But it’s true. I made my decision. I’ll enter the black hole in the next hour. Making history.

Andrew: What? No. Why?

John: I have been waiting my whole life for this moment. The ultimate adventure. I want to know the answer to “Why”, the most fascinating question of mankind. Why do we exist? I’m ready to see the truth.

Andrew: You could die. Ever thought about that possibility?

John: If I die, I’ll probably get an answer to what’s happening after our demise. A win-win situation. That won’t happen though. Not yet.

Andrew: This is the craziest thing I ever heard in my life. And the most brave one too. I envy you. But I lack the courage.

John: That’s ok. You’ll be my witness. Though we’ll never see each other again. Not on this plane of existence.

Andrew: I wish I could change your mind. But you’re determined, right?

John: I am. Goodbye Andrew, you were the closest thing to being a best friend. I’ll never forget you.

Andrew: Godspeed. You’ll need it.

John jumps off the bridge and slowly, but inexorably drifts towards a meeting with destiny and eternity.
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