Opportunities

Picture a tribe of primitive nomadic hunters. Physically and mentally they were not much different than we are. Evolution is a slow process. In that tribe there may have been a man with the potential of Einstein. Unfortunately, stone age technology would give him very little opportunity to develop his talents.

There are a lot more opportunities in the modern world for different talents to flourish. Some people would do well in any age, but it's hard to say how it would truly turn out. Had Steve Jobs been born 30 years earlier, instead of selling computers he might have made a fortune selling lawn mowers -or maybe he'd be just some guy selling insurance. As it was, he was in the right place at the right time for his talents to come to light.

That's great and all. There are more options for people to find what they are uniquely qualified for. Even so, it's a pretty hit or miss process. What if someone has a talent for art, but was never exposed to it growing up? As it is, plenty of successful people had the advantage of being from a well enough off family that they would not miss any meals if their new ideas never took off. It's hard to take chances when living hand to mouth.

Here's a thought. While our global civilization enables a huge number of people to discover what they are good at, it doesn't work for everyone. I believe there are people out there who are stunted by our civilization and who would thrive in a different environment. I wonder what wonderful people and things we are missing out on?

-Sixbears