The think (here) Blog

One of the least expected, but most insightful moments at SXSW occurred when I stumbled across a massive spread of Legos at the far end of the convention center.  The assortment offered nearly infinite possibilities, but there was one problem... no one was building anything.  I sat and watched for several minutes (the talk I was scheduled to attend was over capacity and not letting anyone else in) then decided to take action.

Finished, or even partially complete creations sat along the fringe of the pile. This was the only shred of evidence that anyone had participated at all.  It was actually this echo of previous creativity that encouraged me to begin playing, that ensured me everything would be ok.

I will admit, right now, that I was hesitant at first. I sat in a chair overlooking the pile for a long time contemplating building something, anything without being judged by fellow 'interactive' attendees.  When I felt there were sufficient pieces to make what I had conceptualized I began collecting pieces (from my chair)- a brick here, a handful there.

I am not sure when the shift happened, but suddenly I was 9 years old again.  I was clearing spaces to place my feet, crawling on my hands and knees through a vibrant junkyard of symmetrical plastic, and feeling my mind race with possibility... all while wearing a tie.

In the sifting, sorting, calculating mental state I was in I hardly realized that I was no longer alone.  When I had finished my creation (see below) I was accompanied by no less than 7 other people building, creating, and designing.

How many people passed by, saw the bricks, wanted to create but were too afraid they would be the only one?  How many were afraid that people would judge them?  I felt the hesitation myself, but I forced the thought out of my mind.  If I did not pick up that first brick would those 7 people still have stopped to build something?  Perhaps, but I doubt it.

So I challenge you, my fellow t(h)inker.  I challenge you to pick up the first brick.  Don't be afraid to do something if you really want to do it.  You don't need me to tell you that to make decisions based on the opinions of those around you is no way to live.  I can promise you that people (read: strangers) care a whole lot less about you than you think. Who knows, you might just inspire someone who is not quite ready to pick up the first brick themselves.