Richard Scolyer

I have felt the last couple of weeks have been weird.  I have seen the passing of what I consider two very decent men in Neale Daniher from MND and former Australian of the Year, Professor Richard Scolyer from an aggressive brain cancer.
Added to that, have been two things that occurred yesterday that reinforced my thinking that we are living in a time of transition.  Firstly Israel and Iran are at it again and the ABC had a story about AI.  The interesting thing about AI was the acknowledgement of how dangerous it potentially is.
No one from politicians to Tech workers refused to acknowledge how useful it is but it was incredibly obvious that its development was out of control and rich developers were afraid to let go in case another got the riches they wanted.  Greed would seem to be the motive for destruction.  Power is in the hands of the self-seeking.  I cannot help but feel we are on the verge of what Barry McGuire sang about.  “The Eve of Destruction.”
But it is the decency that inspires.  I love how Richard Scolyer encouraged us not to just “lean in” but to “leap in.”
He penned a final good-bye to be published at his passing.  I include it in part.
“I pen this letter as a final goodbye to all those I have had the immense privilege of loving, sharing life's adventures with, working alongside and meeting during what can only be described as a life filled with happiness, optimism, opportunity and passion.
My final message to all Australians is to say thankyou for your outpouring of love and support for me and my family.
….. you've laughed with me, cried with me, and provided encouragement and support to keep going just when I needed it most.
I haven't sugar coated my journey and I sincerely thank you for allowing me the space and opportunity to share it with you, warts and all.
I hope I have in some small way made the road ahead easier and smoother for others.
If my legacy was to continue beyond these words, I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who "gave it a crack", and in doing so, inspired others to pursue their dreams and passions with humility, love and compassion.”