Yesterday’s news of Apple’s Steve Jobs stepping down as CEO of Apple has rocked the business and technology world, and frankly – my world too. Though not entirely unexpected, as he’s been unwell much of the year, the timing of the news was surprising and – as I’m sure you’ve seen, the news is all about him today. I want to share with you a short reflection and two stories that have come out in the last 24 hours — not from news media speculating what Apple shares will do but two stories from others who’ve chosen to share their feelings about Jobs’s resignation. I’ve been a Mac user for 20 years this year. And, while I love technology I’m really not a real geek. The only reason I am so technical is that Apple products are so easy to use. I love is that I can do my work, my play, connect, relate, share my passions on the devices that Apple has created, under the leadership of one Steve Jobs.
I had the great pleasure of being at the iPhone launch in San Francisco in 2007 and seeing first hand one of Jobs’ compelling, perfectly-timed and passionate presentations. (Yes, really – there was a day that we were without our iPhones. These ARE better days). His immaculate presentation skills and sense of drama aside – I remember that day a lot because we (well, the guys in our group) had lined up like groupies from 4.00am in the cold morning, amongst thousands of others who were there for the chance to get a first-come, first-served seat at this annual keynote presentation which saw Mac addicts come together. So, at 6.30am my girlfriend and I joined the guys and we waited another few hours before the keynote started. What surprised me was that – here I was, a mature businesswoman, lining up as though I was back in my teens waiting for a Prince Concert to start. It was however, a memorable day that I still cherish as a really great experience. I want to share with you two stories from yesterday. Both touched me, in different ways.
1. This short piece by Seth Godin about Jobs
I’m sorry to see him to step down. I’m worried about his health. I’m thankful for the many gifts he has given me. Suzi
