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Qbe Root

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November 21, 2000 -- Be Thankful

So it's November, and (in the US, at least) time to be thankful.

That's what you'd think. But doesn't it seem that we're often quick to complain and forget to say thanks?

That's true in every area of life. Since this space usually covers geek computer stuff, let's talk about that. Consider the feast we enjoy these days. (WARNING: obligatory nostalgia section ahead) I was thinking the other day about the cool job I have (Unix administrator/Perl|Python|Ruby hacker/webmaster/developer) and realized how different the computing world is today from the time I got started. In those days, "computers" meant PCs--I didn't have access to anything else. They were slow, they were clunky, and we were glad to have them. In 1987, when I first learned C programming, I searched far and wide for a cheap or free MS-DOS C compiler to use for practicing my programming skills. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, the only C compiler you could buy off the shelf was Microsoft C, if you could afford it. I couldn't. I finally took the plunge when Borland released Turbo C, spending $100 for version 1.0 and more for the updates.

I'd have given my left arm (the relatively worthless one) to have access to the software I get for free these days--complete Unix/Unixlike operating environments with not just an operating system, but every imaginable type of tool, language, application and game, all available for a few bucks to cover the cost of media. Even free C compilers.

I, like many techies, love the feast. I love to grab and try all kinds of free and freely-available software. Learning to use Unix and program C and Perl have given me a fun and profitable career. And I, like you, tend to take it all for granted.

But think about it: this stuff didn't just spring full grown from the foreheads of Dennis Ritchie, Bill Joy, Linus Torvalds, or anyone else. The software we use and depend on every day is the result of many hours of creative thinking, inspiration and plain old hard work. We stand on the shoulders of giants; we follow in the footsteps of men who have made [computer] history.

Yet unlike most historical figures, many of those who have changed our world are still with us. They have seen their work do amazing things, amazing things for each one of us. Their work has probably improved your life, especially if you work in IT. So why not let them know? It's possible to find email addresses for many people; why not simply drop them a message to say thanks?

A few weeks ago I started putting together a list of people whose work has made a difference to me, who have influenced my life in the world of computers. Some are well-known, others not as well. Some are programmers, some are authors, but all have given me tools or taught me to use them and have helped shape my own world and career. Your list will differ. My own list is not complete by any stretch, but maybe you'll find some ideas for your own. Don't forget those who write and maintain the software you use regularly, either.

My list of people to whom I'm thankful (in no particular order):

-- J.t.Qbe