Starships, Klingons, holodecks, and warp drives—these words were woven into the fabric of my youth in the ’80s and ’90s. I proudly identify as a Trekkie, and if you need evidence, let me share some of my experiences.
For starters, I dabbled in Klingon language. I learned to play chess on a three-dimensional board and donned a Starfleet uniform for Halloween. My dreams were filled with thoughts of Counselor Troi, and I faced nightmares featuring the Borg. I had a crush on William Riker and often wished holodecks were a reality. My unique adventures included witnessing a live Klingon blood drive and attending over 20 Star Trek conventions, where I met legends like William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and Patrick Stewart—each autograph a cherished memento. Oh, and to top it off, I was named after one of Captain Kirk’s love interests.
Looking back, it’s easy to share these memories. However, during my teenage years, I often kept this passion tucked away. My friends were kind, but they didn’t share my enthusiasm for the sci-fi universe. My in-depth knowledge of Starfleet command didn’t earn me any popularity points at school; in fact, it probably placed me lower on the social ladder.
Yet, these nostalgic memories are vivid, particularly because I shared them with my mom. She was a die-hard Star Trek fan from the very beginning. Having watched every episode of all five original series, as well as every movie, she has read countless Star Trek novels and even penned her own short stories long before fan fiction became a phenomenon.
Mom’s collection is impressive: a basement filled with collector plates, autographed photos, phaser replicas, and even a few Starfleet-themed Mr. Potato Heads. Christmas was always special, as we had two trees—one traditional and another entirely black, adorned with pewter starships that my dad bought yearly for her birthday.
Of course, we enjoyed typical mother-daughter activities, like shopping and weekend outings. But it’s the quirkiest moments that stand out the most. Who else can say they rocked out to a music video featuring Geordi La Forge or waited in line for an autograph from Terry Farrell of Deep Space Nine with their mom? How many daughters have sat with their mothers to hear Leonard Nimoy speak or watched Patrick Stewart perform live as Prospero in The Tempest? I even had the exhilarating experience of being chosen from the audience to assist with a live Star Trek auction, with my mom cheering me on.
My adolescence, Star Trek, and my mom are intertwined in a way that feels profoundly significant. What I once hid, I now celebrate, much to the amusement of my students and the bewilderment of my friends. What seemed like a niche interest has transformed into a beautiful representation of the bond I share with my mother.
Star Trek has imparted many valuable life lessons—strong female role models, the celebration of diversity, and a passion for exploration. But above all, I cherish the joy it brings my mom. Watching her excitement is truly inspiring.
As much as I once tried to distance myself from my Trekkie roots, I now embrace them wholeheartedly, even finding humor in the words of the Borg: “Resistance is futile.” If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this informative piece on intracervical insemination. And for those looking for reliable resources, Hopkins Medicine is an excellent source for pregnancy and home insemination information.
In summary, my journey as a Trekkie has shaped my identity and deepened my connection with my mother. The shared experiences, laughter, and love for a beloved franchise have created lasting memories that I will cherish forever.