The Adventures of Life
This morning I was reading the New York Times, and I came across an amazing story that I wanted to share with you. “Why He Kayaked Across the Atlantic at 70,” tells the tale of Aleksander Doba and his amazing feat that simply boggles my mind. As an entrepreneur, I surely have to tackle uncertainty, fight the unexpected, develop crazy resiliency and summon creative strategies to achieve my goals, but death is not one of the highly probable outcomes.
Artists also have to challenge rational thinking if they are going to be commercially successful. Clearly, the percentages are not in their favor; much of the challenge is staying on task and fighting off the naysayers and more “rational” voices that creep into their conscience. Just like pure adventurers, artists get to pick the challenge of their choice defined by the narrative they want to tell and shaped by the materials, medium, and mechanics that govern the objects they make. Perhaps I identify with artists so much because I respect the fearlessness and self-belief that is required of them– things I rely on professionally as well.
I love reading stories about people who take on amazing adventurous challenges. Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer was one of the best books I ever read. It detailed the story of the author and the tragic events that surrounded his climb of Everest in 1996. However, Beyond the Limits by Dennis Meadows, Donella Meadows, and Jørgen Rander is the story of Ranulph Fiennes unsupported trek to the North Pole may have top it.
When I read these stories I often think that I am reading fairy tales; there is simply no way someone walked across the North Pole. But then again, someone who walked across the North Pole may look at an artist who works in the same studio 50 hours a week, making objects as someone who is doing unthinkable things. I’m in awe of both groups for I get the blessing of looking at each, and realizing that they are uniquely built to do what they do. And I learn and derive inspiration from them.
In some ways, the adventures of life are governed by our individual journeys and the personal twist that we create determines the risk and reward of life and legacy.