“One more thing …” — Steve Jobs, Apple Product Launch, June 2011
Four years ago a colleague introduced me to Apple, and in particular the white MacBook. Leopard was launching, and we spent hours researching the operating system, discussing how a Mac actually work, and after some consideration two Apple MacBooks acquired. It didn’t take long for the appeal of Apple products to catch on in your family, and not long after we purchased two new iPhone 3G’s. The MacBook became part of every day life for me. I became a fan, and today, my house if filled with everything from a Time Capsule to iPad’s to AirPort Extremes. I use a MacBook Pro, and the only PC left in our home is the Windows Server, solely because we haven’t gotten around to replacing it.
During this time, a lot of time got spent researching to understand Apple, and in particular the philosophy behind Apple, driven by Steve Jobs. His quest for simplicity and usability was visible in every product. His ability to take an idea and make it a reality and inspiration rarely seen anywhere, or by anyone. I first learned about Steve Jobs when I watched Pirates of Silicon Valley, and I never imagined I would ever use an Apple product. Coming from a hardcore Microsoft background, with icons like Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer, the idea of Apple never really took hold. So I believed.
My ideas around software development and interface design radically changed. My lifestyle simpler and easier because of one person’s quest of perfection and attention to detail. I would never meet this man, however his impact on my way of life, my family’s lifestyle and my every day existence was considerably changed and improved by his impact. Unknowingly he changed the lives of millions, every day.
Technology has lost an innovator, and icon and an amazing person. He taught us he was human, yet left ideas and innovations that will live on forever. He delivered to the world the proof that an idea can grow into a reality, that no matter how small, and how much criticism you take, success is only measured by how quickly and well you deliver the next great idea. He taught us how to live every day as if it was your last. His passion for his family showed in the products he helped design, the concept of easily and simply staying connected. His ability to show just how simple technology is, also taught some, how simple life is.
I don’t often feel swept up by people, even rarely do I find people I truly respect and look up to. On 5 October 2011, one of those few passed on to another realm, leaving behind sadness and sorrow, but at the same time, a legacy and memories that will stand test of time, a passion that even the worse critic could not temper.
May you rest peacefully, Mr. Steve Jobs. For all you’ve done, for all you’ve taught, and for all you’ve given. Thank you. The words seem small, but powerful when echoed by millions.
Goodbye, Mr. Steve Jobs.
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