This past Saturday, Apple CEO Tim Cook took some time out of his schedule to give the commencement speech for the 2019 graduates of Tulane University in New Orleans.
In his speech, Cook touched on his worries about the environmental crisis.
Reuters
When Tulane confirmed Cook as a speaker back in February, it said of him that he, "represents the kind of success we hope all of our graduates can attain." But when Cook took the stage, he had a different message to give. Rather than present himself as a successful businessman, he painted a picture of how he, like many others have failed.
"You don't need to look far to find an example of that failure," he added, talking about climate change has brought frequent natural disasters to New Orleans.
"This problem doesn't get easier based on who wins an election. It's about who has won life's lottery and has the luxury of ignoring this issue, and who stands to lose everything. The coastal communities, including some right here in Louisiana, that are already making plans to leave behind the places they've called home for generations and head for higher ground... When we talk about climate change, I challenge you to look for those who have the most to lose and find the real, true empathy that comes from something shared. When you do that, the political noise dies down and you can feel your feet planted on solid ground."
Cook didn't just make his speech about climate change though, he also addressed the students' futures in their careers. "There is a saying that if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life," he said. "At Apple, I learned that is a total crock."
"You will work harder than you ever thought possible, but the tools will feel light in your hands."