"The need to rise above is not something that can be measured; it is an intrinsic desire stitched into the very fabric of our souls. We are all imperfect creatures who strive for that impossible horizon, and in reaching ever onwards, we realize a potential we never thought we'd be able to bear. Some achieve spectacular heights, if only because their ascent started from so low. Stellar was one of those ponies. We found one of the best among us, and she had no qualifications, had no background, had never even considered piloting anything other than the family skywagon. But she had heart, and the willingness to rise above and beyond every expectation of the engineers, the doctors, and even myself. We sent her forth into the unmapped darkness, and prayed for her to come home. She went in peace for all Equestria, and all Equestria is in her debt.

Yet, some explorers do not return. And that loss settles unfairly on a few. One family in particular shares that burden more than any other today. Now they must face life and grief... without her. That is a lonely, wretched sorrow, but know that they are not alone. As time passes, they will find the support and grace to see them through. And in the Pale Mare's time, we pray for a reunion that will come.

I speak now to any who have lost a mother, a father, a loving guardian. You need to know, they love you, and that love will always be there with you. They are proud of you. And you can be proud of them for the rest of your life.

The final days of her life were spent looking down on this world. Stellar once confided in me that she was terrified not of the last sleep that might await, but that her existence on such a vast, eternal land would be forgotten to the sands of time. Now, in every country she could see from her time among the stars, on every pair of lips, her name is known and brought close to heart. The Cathedral of the Sisters has bestowed her a sainthood. She will always have a place in the hallowed halls of our heroes, now and forever.

I will miss her dearly.

May the spirit of harmony go with you all."