Steve Jobs passed away today, and since I heard the announcement i've felt like i've lost something. I never knew him personally, but I feel that he knew me. It's amazing how someone you've never met can shape your past, your present, and your future.
I lost an Inspiration today. I remember when I had my first experience with a Macintosh computer in my computer lab way back in Elementary school, it was that defining moment that I knew I wanted to work with technology, that this was my calling. I fell in love with technology and would do everything in my power to be a part of it. No matter the manufacturer or OS I wanted to experience it, and see what was "The next big thing". I've worked hard for years, and finally in a position that I am very happy with, but I refuse to end here and be content. I want to leave behind a legacy like he did, to be remembered not by how much I am worth, but what impact I made while I was alive. He built a company out of a garage, surely I can do the same from my home office.
I lost a Mentor today. Jobs instilled a work ethic within me when he said "the only way to do great work, is to love what you do" and I do love what I do. Jobs showed me passion, and how to push the boundaries of technology. He showed me to never settle and always strive to be the best. These lessons will live with me for the rest of my life, and I hope that one day I will share these lessons with my children.
I lost a Hero today. Steve Jobs created the iPhone I hold in my hand, and from the moment I first got it, I came to expect more out of technology. As I held it in my hand, and looked at it's polished features I saw the new standards that technology would have to live up to, the bar had been raised. Apple devices are a cut above the rest, and the vision Steve Jobs had, changed the face of the industry today. I, of course balked at apple when they were releasing the iDevices. Really, could they be that great? Are they really that big of a deal? The answer is yes. Even if you don't care for Apple as a company, you have to respect Steve Jobs for being a the tech pioneer of our generation. He changed the face of technology. Thousands of new companies are built on a daily basis because of his software, his platform, and his devices. He did all of this, and he was humble about it.
The world has lost what some would call the Thomas Edison of our time. One of the greatest inventors, pioneers, and visionaries this world has seen. I want to wish my condolences to his friends and family, and I also want to say thank you. Steve Jobs has touched this world, and it's an emptier place without him, he will be missed.
