Think Different

   In our house, he was referred to as “Stevie.”  To everyone else, he was Steve Jobs.  But when you’re married to someone who works for Apple, Stevie isn’t always your favorite person.  Stevie is the guy dangling the newest toy in front of the child (or in this case, my husband) and I have to be the strict mom (or in this case, the no-fun wife when I say, “You don’t need that.”)

   Because let’s face it, most of what Stevie introduced to the world we don’t actually need.  His tools are helpful and beneficial, but not absolutely necessary.

   Stevie’s keynotes were a source of excitement and anticipation for my husband (What did Santa bring?) and a source of dread for me (How much will this cost?).  

   Stevie’s premature passing has got me thinking about him in a different sense.  Whether or not you’re an Apple fan, there’s no denying Steve Jobs was internationally influential.  Steve Jobs knew people in all industries, had a multitude of resources available to him, and yet, it still wasn’t enough.

   Because no matter how lightweight a computer becomes, how small an iPod, there are certain things that are still beyond human understanding.  Why do some people get sick and not others?  Why can’t all ailments be cured?  

   I think Stevie didn’t just advertise Apple products, but a way of living.  Be comfortable with who you are.  (He never seemed to stray from his tennis shoes, black shirt, and blue jeans for his keynote addresses).  Live passionately.  (Even I could see his enthusiasm and excitement for his products).  Think different.