"What does the space program represent to you?"

I was asked this question inside the Saturn V building at KSC, an hour before launch. A self-described reporter with a slight Dutch(?) accent was wandering around the crowds and asking them this question. I didn't mind the question; in fact, I felt it was a rather good one. I thought about my answer for a few seconds.

"The space program represents the challenges that humanity can overcome, and our hopes for the future."

Not a great sound bite, I suppose, but not too bad. I would love it if I could come up with stuff like that without having to think hard about it. Feel free to add your own views in the comments.