digital moleskine

Steve Jobs

Bear with me as I attempt to string together some words into sentences, as I’m in complete shock and sadness that Steve Jobs passed away today. 

Steve Jobs was hands down, the greatest innovator, designer, thinker and inspirer of this generation. From the iMac to the iPad, he produced countless creations that have redefined the way we live and connect with one another.

As a student in the design industry, I am so aware and thankful that Jobs singlehandedly shaped the way I think and design. Because of Jobs, scatterbrains like me are able to use his creations to create something beautiful, and present them even more beautifully. Growing up in the Silicon Valley, it was incredibly clear how big of an influence Jobs had in everyday life. From driving past(and through) the Apple campus on One Infinite Loop, hearing of test iPhones being left in local bars, and swelling up with pride that the garage Apple was created in was just a short drive away, I respected Jobs and was beyond proud to use his products. And don’t forget the license-less Mercedes spottings on 280. 

But there were two moments where my perspective on Jobs completely changed. I gained so much more respect for him when I realized, he was just a normal guy with a curious, passionate heart that desired to change the world. 

The first was on a late nummer night. I was watching his Stanford commencement speech for the second time in a row while sitting on my bed, back hunched over my laptop as I listened in wonder. My young mind was wildly inspired as I listened to every experience and setback that Jobs underwent and overcame. I began to ask myself as he did, “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” Jobs got to where he was because he had the desire to change the world, and allowed nothing to get in his way of doing just that. 

The second was on a spring day in Palo Alto. I was sitting in Fraiche, enjoying a cup of yogurt, when suddenly a thin, frail Jobs walked in with his wife. He chose the seat next to the window, quietly sitting with his knees tucked under his arms as a child would. He curiously stared out the window as he slowly ate his heaping cup of rich chocolate yogurt. And at that moment I was amazed that this man, a legend that had co-founded the most valuable and innovative company in the world, still viewed the world with such curiosity, as if still imagining the ways he could change the world for the better. 

Steve Jobs truly changed the world with the way he led, thought, designed and worked and showed us that with a passionate and hungry heart anyone else could do the same. Rest in Peace, Steve Jobs. 

  1. hhaus said: I can cry. Cheers to staying hungry and staying foolish during those late nights, Cands. Steve and I are cheering for you, creative soul!
  2. yvosdg reblogged this from canvaslee and added:
    Beautifully said, Canvas
  3. canvaslee posted this