Half A Life

David Ogden Steirs, formerly of M*A*S*H guest starred on this one as a scientist
who is trying to save his planet's dying sun.

He does not succeed.

He puts off Loxwana Troi's advances. She wants to know why. He tells her that he will soon be 60 and on his world, you have to die on your 60 th birthday.

She is furious! She has fallen for the scientist, and he for her as well.

The scientist seeks asylum on Enterprise but changes his mind after a visit from his distraught daughter.

TRoi goes to the planet to be with him to the end.

Okay, I am 50. I watched this one with my mom who is 75.

We both agreed that it is dumb putting 60 year olds to death, although it was explained that adult children in that world ought NOT to have to care for sick or otherwise incapacitated parents.

We talked about it more and she really would not want to go to a retirement home, she wants to keep her own home. I don't blame her, but someday, hopefully not for several years yet, she might not be able to stay home alone.

Many of you here are not old enough to have to worry about such decisions yet, but trust me - that day will come.

This was an excellent episode. It makes one think. Thinking is good.



"I offer you a Vulcan prayer, Mr Suder. May your

death bring you the peace you never found in

life." - Tuvok.