Let's fix the problems we have here at home, and then more resources can be devoted to space exploration.

This! We're naturally curious and its so understandable when we devote lots of resources to explore the world around/beyond us... However, this shouldn't be at the detriment of destroying what we have now for what we might get in the future...

I however don't agree that we need to colonize other planets to achieve peace. Being human naturally means we're exposed to conflicts.. There are several other (and economically viable) means of reducing conflicts and maintaining peace. Besides, we're more exposed to planetary accidents when we leave our comfort zone - earth. And here's a toast to an additional 100 years to your current age ;)