Why the Pen has Changed the World
The Acumen Fund asked me to be a judge for their Search for the Obvious project. I was very taken by their “Why?” which is why I was eager to get involved.
We believe in the power of creativity to better the world. Instead of seeing problems, a creative mind sees obvious solutions. Look around you and you’ll find all sorts of solutions to problems that once seemed impossible. Now Acumen Fund needs YOU to help change how the world is addressing poverty by showing that there’s a better way.
Over the last month, people have contributed everyday objects they feel have changed the world. I was asked to pick one that spoke to me and so I chose the pen. Here’s my write-up on why:
Imagine a world without pens… there would be no handwritten love letters, thank-you notes, and picture postcards from Paris. No spur-of-the-moment mind maps, action lists, and the pleasure of crossing off that which we’ve accomplished. No proud signature to represent our name or handwriting to express our individuality.
The pen is a powerful tool which helps us visualize our thoughts and bring our heart to paper. It provides a starting place for creation and expression, and allows the opportunity to take a moment of silence amid the noise of life. Every day, the pen impacts my world and helps me touch others too which is why Adam’s contribution and beautiful write-up struck me immediately.
I believe our future doesn’t lie ahead of us, waiting to happen. It lies within us, waiting to be discovered. That’s why the pen has changed the world. It allows us to discover our true selves so that we can go on creating our futures.
