This past week, we lost a true innovator in technology….Apple Co-Founder and CEO Steve Jobs. Jobs co-created a company that changed the world we live in today and it will be his legacy with Apple Computers that he will be remembered the most about him.
I remember back at Indian Valley Elementary School where I used a Power Macintosh computer to learn phonics through Bailey’s Book House and science through Sammy’s Science House. One of the proudest accomplishments when I was kid was playing Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego on my family’s personal Power Macintosh and caught the elusive thief.
The only thing that I remember from my childhood is that we did not have the opportunity to use Apple products from third grade to middle school. But that changed my freshman year when I got the first generation iPod Mini. I thought at the time it was the best thing I ever had and I began to heavily use iTunes more and more to download the songs that I want.
As Apple continued to expand its’ product line, I wanted to have more Apple merchandise. I already decided when I was in high school that I wanted a MacBook as one of my high school graduation presents (and that lasted me until it was stolen from me while I was riding on the Tube in London.). Another iPod story that I have is that I remember my mom promising me that I would get a 32 GB Fifth Generation iPod Classic if I got a B in my Honors Pre-Calculus class. I managed to persevere through the class and by the end of the Fall 2006 Semester, I passed Pre-Calculus and received a black 32 GB Fifth Generation iPod Classic.
While I attended classes at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Apple released their new iPod Touch and it was love at first sight. When my folks visited Colorado for the school’s family weekend, I told them that I wanted to get the latest version as a birthday present. I felt a jolt of excitement when I first opened the box and uploaded the iPod Touch into my computer. The first song that I played on the iPod Touch was “We Are The World.” After listening to the song, I was extremely happy with my decision to purchase it.
Now fast forward to this year when the second incarnation of the iPad was released. I enjoyed testing out the first generation at my local Apple store and I decided that I wanted to wait for iPad 2 because it would be better than its’ original incarnation. I use my iPad to write e-mails, play games like Who Wants to Be A Millionaire and Wheel of Fortune and tweet about the latest in pop culture.
The iPod, iPad, iTunes, MacBook and the MacBook Pro that I am writing this blog entry on had been influenced under Jobs’ direction and I want to personally thank Steve Jobs for his visions and reminding everyone that never lose your determination because who knows your dreams might come true. In addition, Jobs also taught us all to inspire in positive ways and try to make an impact in your community, nation and world.
R.I.P. Steve and have a meaningful rest. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Jobs’ family, friends and Apple employees.
Jacob
