26 May, 2023

Chemical Synapse

Though the endeavor of aligning artificial intelligence with human thought—and vice versa—remains a formidable challenge, I’ve found that both pursuits are deeply entwined with our physical and emotional resilience. During my hospitalization for hypovolemia, I was reminded of this delicate equilibrium, having once collapsed in basic training from severe dehydration. That moment, along with others—like volunteering in hospitals during my pre-nursing studies, switching to computer science after heartbreak and trauma, or conducting head-electrode experiments in solitude—reflects my quest for deeper understanding and restoration. Through my loved one’s network, I feel silently supported, even as I resist crediting others too easily. I was once told to "hide my abilities," and so, behind closed doors, I maintained rigorous training, drawn to wisdom from David Goggins and shaped by joint service trials that bonded me with others in loss and perseverance. The Murph workout, which I’ve since modified to suit my evolving limits, symbolizes my reverence for sacrifice and education. While outwardly I seem to walk among the ordinary, I remain prepared to serve, embodying hidden strength and conscious restraint. These experiences—woven through love, loss, detours, and delayed reckonings—guide me to live with purpose, create with integrity, and protect quietly. This is my tribute to those whose lessons illuminate my path: to you, for you—educate and set free.