Aaron & Access
Last night, I spent the evening with one of our partners in crime at Experience Institute, Aaron Wilson-Ahlstrom.
Aaron is in his early forties and one of the most interesting men I’ve ever met.
A son of an architect and an educator, Aaron has traveled the world and studied multiple languages. He is well-versed in art/culture/music, can facilitate dynamic workshops with everyone from educators to designers; is good at math, athletic, introverted, and able to hold a conversation with anyone of any background. When he’s not working at Ei, he leads anti-racism workshops and participates actively in his local community.
I think this is where I’m supposed to use the hashtag, #mancrush.
Aaron is married to a beautiful woman (Hi, Alicia!) and together they have three incredible children: Langston, Malcolm, and Mayana.
Last night, Aaron and I left work early just to go rock climbing and share a meal to discuss life beyond the fast-paced work of building Ei.
I so enjoy hearing him talk about his three kids. Mayana (3) loves to read and is learning how to spell. Langston (8) loves soccer and is really excelling on the team (that Aaron helps coach. Sheesh!) And Malcolm (10) is finding his place among the gamers, makers, and inventors.
Most of my friends have kids and I’ve spent a lot of time with families. It’s one of my greatest joys. But something struck me last night as I listened to Aaron.
He and his wife are doing an incredible job helping his kids access an array of amazing, new experiences – everything from sport’s teams, to Chinese language camp, to raising chickens, to a monthly subscription for inventive puzzles.
With each new experience, his kids’ lives are always changing for the better. Their minds are expanding and they’re gaining an ever-growing picture of what’s possible.
It was a reminder that learning anything new starts with access – the ability to see, touch, and interact with things that are entirely foreign, yet exist in the world around us.
As I rode my bike home after the conversation, I began to think about how different the world would be if each of us opened our doors a little wider to those who were curious & helpful. How might our communities and relationships be stronger if we invited people to travel into our spaces and embark upon new experiences by learning what we do, exploring our challenges, and contributing to the solutions?
Yes, it takes time and it may even cost something, on both sides. But the return on that investment goes far beyond monetary value. It propagates curiosity, courage, creativity, and action.
Experience is not just for parents and their kids, or employers and young adults, it is for anyone of any age. It does not require a classroom or an exorbitant amount of money. It begins with a question, it needs a community, and it should always lead to action and reflection.
That’s for all of us. That’s for you. Today. Always.
So, what do you need access to in order to learn and grow?
And how can you open your door for others to experience your work and world?
Have a great Wednesday,
Victor
PS: We just welcomed 14 amazing graduate-level students into Ei’s 2016-2017 Leap Year Fellowship. If your company or organization is interested in remarkable talent for 3-6 months apprenticeships, just complete this short form. Thanks!