>but found it, as they get older, increasingly difficult to do so because all those years (decades) they've wasted time on religion (sunk costs) may result in momumental losses (life without a meaning) if they would simply give it up at a later point in their lives.

Religion? Sounds like you are talking about World of Warcraft!

"The first time we have two female commanders in orbit - that will be neat," Whitson said.

He should have said "hot".