At the age of 56, Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc., passed away as a billionaire and a global icon of innovation. His final words, reportedly “Oh, wow. Oh, wow. Oh, wow,” remain enigmatic, leaving much to interpretation. While speculation surrounds whether he penned an essay in his final days, one thing is clear—his life was a complex tapestry of brilliance, sacrifice, and introspection.
Jobs’ relentless pursuit of excellence often came at a personal cost, including strained relationships with family. Notably, he initially denied paternity of his daughter, Lisa—a surprising stance given that Jobs himself was adopted. His journey to redefine technology and culture reshaped the world, but his legacy also invites deeper reflection on the human experience.
A Disputed Essay with a Timeless Message
Though its authenticity is debated, an essay attributed to Jobs in his final days offers profound insights into life’s priorities. The essay’s universal themes transcend doubt about its origin, providing valuable lessons on wealth, happiness, and the fleeting nature of life.
The Illusion of Success
Jobs begins with a stark admission:
“I reached the pinnacle of success in the business world. In others’ eyes, my life is the epitome of success. However, aside from work, I have little joy.”
Here lies a paradox. Despite his monumental achievements, Jobs found himself grappling with the limitations of material success in the face of mortality. His reflection highlights the impermanence of wealth and recognition, revealing a deeper yearning for purpose and connection.
The Irreplaceable Value of Life
Jobs’ essay underscores the irreplaceability of life itself:
“You can employ someone to drive the car for you, make money for you, but you cannot have someone bear your sickness for you… Life, when lost, can never be found.”
This sentiment is a reminder to cherish every moment. The essay cautions against the relentless pursuit of wealth at the expense of health, relationships, and personal fulfillment.
Happiness Beyond Materialism
Jobs poignantly contrasts material possessions with genuine happiness:
“As we grow older, and hopefully wiser, we realize that a $3000 or a $30 watch both tell the same time.”
True happiness, he argues, comes not from luxury but from shared moments with loved ones. Jobs advocates for a shift in values, urging readers to teach children happiness over riches and to appreciate the intangible joys of life.
Wisdom for a Fulfilling Life
The essay offers practical advice:
- Health First: “Eat your food as your medicine, otherwise, you have to eat medicine as your food.”
- Cherish Relationships: “Treasure love for your family, love for your spouse, love for your friends.”
- Embrace Simplicity: “Whether you fly first class or economy, if the plane goes down—you go down with it.”
Jobs also lists the “six best doctors”: sunlight, rest, exercise, diet, self-confidence, and friends, urging readers to prioritize these for a balanced and meaningful life.
The Human Connection
Jobs emphasizes the essence of humanity:
“There is a big difference between a human being and being human. Only a few really understand it.”
His reflection serves as a call to live authentically, valuing kindness and connection over superficial achievements.
The Enduring Legacy of Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs’ life was a symphony of contradictions—marked by groundbreaking innovation and deeply personal struggles. Whether or not he authored this essay, its message resonates as a powerful reminder to focus on what truly matters: health, relationships, and the simple joys of life.
As the essay concludes:
“You are loved when you are born. You will be loved when you die. In between, you have to manage.”
In a world often obsessed with success, Jobs’ words remind us that life’s true wealth lies in our relationships, our health, and the legacy of love and wisdom we leave behind.
