A Chance Meeting For An Aspiring Scientist Thought Leader

The article in The Huffington Post today by Robert Lanza is interesting, not just because of his provocative message - scientist are now starting to work on experiments that explore the thought that perhaps we are more than purely physical - maybe even spiritual. (We know we have consciousness in a way that no other creature on earth does) - but also because of the  heartwarming story he tells about the day he just hopped the trolley and went to Harvard because he wanted to meet a Harvard doctor who could help him with his experiment. It sounds like a scene from a movie.

Dr. Lanza implies that this encounter was a seed for reinforcement of his lifelong quest to understand more about life through scientific inquiry.When Stephen Kuffler, the "world-famous" neurobiologist engages Robert, the boy, he doesn't "shush" him away but instead he listens to him and invites him inside the building where he does indeed introduce him to one of his colleagues. It's a very human moment that we come to understand had a profound impact on Dr. Lanza. One wonders if this scene happened today, would the individual be too busy answering emails or trying to secure grants to give an aspiring next generation scientist's brave inquiry and venture any attention - let alone invite a stranger into the building?

What can you do today to listen to, or inspire a tween or teen to pursue their questions or dreams? Just think, if Bill Gates or Steve Jobs didn't pursue their curiosity and drive while coming of age, what would we all be typing on?