I have been doing some pointed research on an Internet company over the last week or so, dedicating at least two hours a day to; reading articles, websites, watching speeches and other videos, reviewing financials and other disclosures, etc, etc. I have even done some research on their competitors.

In looking up Alibaba, I stumbled upon one of the most inspirational speeches that I’ve ever seen. It could also be that it is super applicable to me right now (and just like Jack Ma, I applied to Harvard – though for a PhD – and didn’t get in;) He is very quotable.

I just heard: “Life is a cruel teacher – she loves to give you the test first, and the lesson later..” – Damon John.

Sometimes I think about how to create far-reaching, long-lasting (even global) impact. It has become clear that while I may never start a company like Google, cure a disease, or even raise millions of dollars for a cause, I can effect change by supporting a meaningful (possibly global) mission or organization. I can become a part of one, bringing my expertise and cultivating more, doing so while capitalizing on a strong work ethic.

We may never be an “Einstein” in our fields or create entirely new ones, but we can identify and further the causes with our time, resources, and creativity. While we may not be the brain behind an organization or idea, we can be the brain behind the brain.

If you can’t get into this within the first 30 seconds, you might as well go back to bed and try again tomorrow.. Fridays aren’t for you..

This is what a guitar should sound like.. A blend of finesse and effort that is equally vascular. It’s almost as if a muscular rooster is crowing within the guitar at times (around the 22 second mark). It’s as if the entire point is to wake us up..