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In the 'Closing Keynote' presented by Blake Mizerany at the LoneStarRuby Conf 2010, the speaker shares a personal journey that illustrates the transformative power of technology and self-teaching.

- **Introduction to Early Experiences**: Mizerany begins by reflecting on his high school experience, particularly an impactful first day of sophomore year that changed his perspective on a former bully. He discusses the personal growth and changes that occur among peers during high school.

- **Challenges of an Average Student**: He identifies himself as an average student, struggling with academics and the pressures placed by teachers to achieve his potential. Despite his challenges, he expresses a long-standing interest in programming, sparked at an early age.

- **Introduction to Programming**: At the age of 12, he became fascinated with video games and sought to understand their creation, leading him to explore programming books. He recalls how he carried a massive game programming book to school, trying to project confidence and knowledge despite his lack of understanding of the material.

- **Rediscovery of GW-BASIC**: Mizerany recounts a pivotal moment when he rediscovered an old book on GW-BASIC, realizing he had the tools he needed all along. This serendipitous find reignited his programming aspirations and highlighted the importance of building upon existing knowledge rather than starting from scratch.

- **Learning and Growth**: Through anecdotal storytelling, Mizerany emphasizes the importance of persistence and curiosity in the learning process. He reflects on the lessons learned from both struggles and successes, demonstrating how these experiences shaped his interest and career in technology.

- **Conclusion**: Mizerany concludes with a call to action for the audience, encouraging them to embrace their journey of learning in technology, regardless of where they start. He underscores that personal growth comes from exploration, failure, and the willingness to teach oneself.

This keynote illustrates a powerful narrative of how personal experiences and encounters with technology can guide one's path in life, encouraging attendees to reflect on their unique journeys and the importance of persistence in personal and professional development.

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