With the death of Steve Jobs there has come a lot of talk about the impact he had on the world. There is no doubt his influence was far-reaching. Even I have an iPhone and I certainly loved "Toy Story." In truth I was sad to think that such an innovator died at such a young age. I wonder about the impact he had on the people closest to him. I hope that there are people left to mourn the loss of Jobs as a person not just as a celebrity or icon.

I have been thinking about how I may have made a difference in the world. I'd like to think that through my personal connections I have made a small difference in the world.  I have come to believe that the small differences may be the most significant.

I think I was a reasonably good mother. I love my sons more than I could ever say. As I look at them as adults I think I must have done something right. They are fine men and in particular they are excellent fathers. I feel proud to know that they have grown up to be thoughtful and caring individuals. I like and respect them and I hope that they think I have made a positive difference in their lives.

I believe I am a good grandmother. I often say that being a grandmother is the best job I've ever had. I love, like and respect my grandchildren. I marvel at the wonderful human beings they are. They bring joy to my life and I hope that I am a significant influence in theirs.

I am a good wife and partner to Gary. Many years ago we made a commitment to nurture our relationship. We have made it a life-long project to support and care for each other. I know I make a difference in Gary's life as he does in mine.

I am a good friend. I am loyal and true. For my dearest friends there is little I would not do. I hope that some of them think I have made a difference in their lives.

I am a good coach and mentor. I seem to have a knack for helping people find ways to move and grow. I derive great pleasure from cheering at the sidelines as others make things happen for themselves. I hope that my presence has helped.

I'd like to think that my contributions outweigh my personal failings. As I have grown older I have actively tried to be kind and generous. I don't always measure up to my own standards but I hope that more often than not I err on the side of kindness.

Personal connections matter to me much more than fame or fortune.  Heroics are not my style. When I die I don't expect strangers to weep for my loss. I don't expect flowers and candles to be placed at the site of my demise. I do hope that a few people think that I made a small difference in their lives.