At the age of 56, Steve Jobs—visionary co-founder of Apple—passed away as one of the most influential figures of the modern era. His death marked the end of an extraordinary life, one that revolutionized technology and redefined how we communicate, work, and live. Yet, Jobs’ final words, as recalled by family members, were surprisingly simple: “Oh, wow. Oh, wow. Oh, wow.” These words, enigmatic and profound, leave us wondering about the thoughts of a man whose life was marked by both unparalleled innovation and personal struggles.
The Contemplative Side of a Visionary
Steve Jobs’ story is one of brilliance and contradictions. While celebrated for his technological genius and business acumen, he often made personal sacrifices to achieve his goals. One of the most controversial aspects of his life was his initial denial of paternity of his daughter, Lisa, despite his own experience of being adopted. Jobs’ relationship with his family, especially in his early years, revealed the complexities of balancing ambition and personal connections.
The Essay Attributed to Jobs
In the years since his passing, an essay has circulated online, purportedly written by Jobs in his final days. While its authenticity remains a topic of debate, the essay’s wisdom resonates deeply. It reflects on themes of success, wealth, and the fleeting nature of life, offering a perspective that transcends the question of authorship.
Reflections on Success and Life
The essay begins with an introspective acknowledgment of success and its limits:
“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. In the end, my wealth is only a fact of life that I am accustomed to.”
Jobs—or the writer of the essay—highlights the emptiness of material wealth in the face of mortality, urging readers to value what truly matters: life, love, and relationships.
Lessons on Happiness and Love
The essay reminds us that happiness is not derived from material possessions:
“As we grow older, and hopefully wiser, we realize that a $3000 or a $30 watch both tell the same time.”
It stresses the importance of nurturing relationships and finding joy in simple, meaningful connections with family and friends. The message is clear: wealth and status pale in comparison to the richness of love and human connection.
Wisdom for the Living
Some of the most striking advice from the essay includes:
- “Don’t educate your children to be rich. Educate them to be happy.”
- “Eat your food as your medicine, otherwise, you have to eat medicine as your food.”
- “The six best doctors in the world are sunlight, rest, exercise, diet, self-confidence, and friends.”
These reflections encourage a balanced, health-focused life and emphasize the importance of teaching values over materialism.
A Legacy Beyond Technology
Jobs’ life was a blend of extraordinary innovation and human imperfection. Whether or not the essay was penned by him, its message complements the image of a man who, in his later years, seemed to appreciate the fragility and beauty of life. His parting words, “Oh, wow,” could signify wonder, acceptance, or an acknowledgment of something beyond our understanding.
Takeaways from Steve Jobs’ Life
Steve Jobs left behind a legacy that shaped the modern world, but his reflections—real or attributed—remind us that the most significant contributions to life are not technological breakthroughs or financial success. Instead, they are the love we share, the joy we find in simplicity, and the wisdom we impart to future generations.
As we remember Jobs, we are reminded to focus on what truly matters: to cherish our time, prioritize relationships, and seek happiness in the journey of life itself.
