We All Could Win a World Tour If We Really Wanted

Like many days, even before this month, I am thinking about Steve Jobs.

My relationship with him started at a time when I had no idea who he was: I was a 5 year old, with feet swinging against a deep maroon chair in a dark movie theater. The original Toy Story played before my eyes. Perhaps I laughed and giggled. Perhaps I cried. But I do remember that event as my first degree away from a man who would eventually change my life.

And I’m not talking about the impact of my kick ass laptop and iPhone. As much as I love them both for reasons of convenience and organization, when I think of Steve Jobs, I think: Stanford. 2005.

The first time I read that commencement speech, I sent it to my closest friends and family, begging them to read it. I knew it was just what they needed to hear. What we all need to hear:

“Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith. I’m convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You’ve got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle.”

So folks, follow your passion. Mine involves a board on wheels over concrete and that other stellar version with fins over aqua. I love them. I’m in love! And a life without love is not a life worth living. Let us continue to live and spread stoke.

In these recent days I am very proud to be living the spirit of Steve Jobs. All good things live on after death.

Until next time, (… you better go to the beach!)

Mia