Lost Opportunities and Divergent Futures

Today I found myself missing Rodney O. Lain (aka iBrotha). I knew Rodney back in 2000-2002. That was an exciting and different time for Apple and the computer industry. The iPod had just been introduced; Apple had oppened their first Apple Stores (Rodney was at the opening for the Mall of America); and the commercials on TV demonstrated the rivalry between the PC and Mac. I was a sales support (Mac evangelist) hired on a temporary basis. I worked at BestBuy, CompUSA, and Micro Center. OS X and the iMovie were all the rage.

I met Rodney a few times and always found him energetic, smart, and engaging. Who knew deep down there was a man fighting for his life? In June 2002 he took his own life. I find myself thinking of all the missed opportinuties because of this senseless end. What future might the Mac, Apple, and Rodney had if he were still with us today?

I know as a Buddhist we are trained in the art of the moment. But the moment finds me remorseful and reminiscient. This could mean Rodney continues to live in my life, giving me the chance to pull upon my memories of this creative, thoughtful soul. He still inspires and angers me. Althought he is here in spirit, I wish I could hear him speak out against contemporary issues and read his railing against The Man. I can only pull from my inner thoughts to bring Rodney back.

Peace, iBrotha.