The Irreplaceable One, Steve Jobs

When Steve Jobs retired in August from Apple, I had mixed emotions.  I was happy for him in that he could spend more time with his loved ones but I was worried that his illness was taking over.  I then reflected on the mark he has left on the world.  

When the news came to me tonight about his passing I felt conflict once again.  On one side, I am happy that he doesn’t have to feel pain anymore.  He was able to accomplish so much in his life and impact more lives that I could even imagine and he did this with perfection.  He held on to make sure his empire would continue on without him and I hope he didn’t suffer while the world benefited.  He has become larger than life.  He has become a legend and an icon.  

The other side of the coin is I feel like there is a void that can not be filled.  To me he represents success in life.  He was a leader.  He was the creator of the technology that we cant live without.  While companies were trying to catch up or copy him, he was trying to figure out how he could create something new for the rest of us.  His passion was creating a better world for us to live in.  It just seems like everyone else was following his lead one way or another.  Who wasn’t affected in some way by his technology?  Be it from computers, technology, apps, music, or even the laughter coming from Pixar…who hasn’t been affected by Steve Jobs?  

I look around and I wonder who are the real leaders out there.  Who is still innovating? Who is still creating a better world out of thin air?  Who is making the impossible, a reality?  Who can dream that big?  I dont know.  

I will never forget you, and the bar you’ve set for me and my life.  I’m happy you’re in a better place and you can go knowing the world will never be the same without you. Although your technology and dreams will live on…you are irreplaceable.