AI GRAND PRIX: RACE TO REWRITE RULES

 

Here they come, folks! The engines are roaring, and the tension is palpable as the AI Grand Prix begins. On one side, representing the US, we have the seasoned racers from OpenAI, led by the formidable ChatGPT driven by Sam Altman, alongside Gemini and Claude AI. On the other side, representing China, we have the underdog DeepSeek, driven by the relatively unknown Liang Wenfeng, and Alibaba's Qwen 2.5 Max.

The race is on! OpenAI's ChatGPT takes an early lead, showcasing its impressive speed and agility. Gemini and Claude AI are hot on their heels, maintaining a tight formation. The crowd is on the edge of their seats as the US racers dominate the track, their engines humming boldly.

But wait! What's this? Out of nowhere, DeepSeek, the dark horse of the race, is making its move. Liang Wenfeng, with a steely determination, navigates the curves with precision. The crowd gasps as DeepSeek inches closer to the leaders. Alibaba's Qwen 2.5 Max is also gaining ground, but DeepSeek is stealing the spotlight.

As they approach the crucial curve, the tension reaches its peak. The US racers are holding their positions, but DeepSeek is relentless. With a burst of speed, DeepSeek overtakes Gemini and Claude AI, leaving them in the dust. The crowd is dumbfounded, their jaws dropping in disbelief.

And there it is! DeepSeek, driven by the unassuming Liang Wenfeng, has done the unthinkable. In a stunning display of skill and innovation, DeepSeek overtakes ChatGPT, claiming the lead in the AI Grand Prix. The once-dominant US racers are now trailing behind, struggling to keep up with the unexpected challenger.

The race continues, but the world has already taken notice. DeepSeek's incredible performance has shaken Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C., proving that the AI arms race is far from over. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the future of AI is more competitive and exciting than ever before.

As DeepSeek burns rubber on the AI race track leaving everyone behind, a public announcer plugs the mind-boggling breakthrough: the DeepSeek “engine” utilizes only a fraction of the charge of the current power-hungry OpenAI system, sparking a turning point and triggering a global shift in tech gaming.

As the AI Grand Prix unfolds with new twists and turns, OpenAI racing strategists and tacticians in their respective command centers are thrown into disarray, clamoring and throwing off cynical comments:

“It’s very much an open question whether DeepSeek’s claim can be taken at face value. The AI community will be digging into them and we’ll find out.”

“But it’s also quite possible that that’s just the cost of fine-tuning and post-processing models that cost more, that DeepSeek couldn’t have done it without building on more expensive models by others.”

“[DeepSeek] is pushed by a Chinese hedge fund to slow investment in American AI startup, service their own shorts against fertile American titans like Nvidia, and hide sanction evasion.”

Some comments even include skepticism with political Trumpist undertones:

“America is a fertile bed for psyops like this because our media apparatus hates our technology companies and wants to see President Trump fail.”

Interestingly, China’s DeepSeek launched an AI app on President Trump’s inauguration day.

To give credit where it’s due, let’s kick the tires and put DeepSeek to the road test of success based on the old-fashioned valuation by a two-decade-old bestseller book Success Built To Last authored by Jerry Porras, Stewart Emery, and Mark Thompson. 

The bone of contention: Is DeepSeek real?

First, real success is built on Meaning. What you do must matter deeply to you. It’s something that you’re so passionate about that you lose all track of time when you do it. It’s something that you are willing to recruit other people to, but will do it despite criticism and perhaps even secretly do it for free. You could not be paid not to do it.

Let’s hear it straight from the DeepSeek founder himself, Liang Wenfeng:

“For the past 30 years, we’ve been focused on making money, often at the expense of innovation. True innovation is driven not only by commercial incentives but also by curiosity and the desire to create. We’ve been constrained by past habits, but these are transitional.

“Our value lies in our team, which grows and accumulates know-how through this process. Building an organization and culture that can consistently innovate is our real moat [a unique competitive advantage].

“Open sourcing [freely available to the public] is more of a cultural act than a commercial one. Giving is a form of honor, and it attracts talent by fostering a unique culture.”

Liang Wenfeng, DeepSeek founder

Second, real success is built on Thought. Steve Jobs said that successful people think differently. Royal Philips CEO Gerald Kleisterlee said:

“When you can organize your thinking around creating real value, and your thoughts remain focused on what is important to creating that value, despite all the incoming distractions, crisis, and complexity crashing on you… then you’re really lucky because you have a sustainable model for your work and your life.”

One of Liang’s business partners told the Financial Times in an interview.

“When we first met him, [Liang] was this very nerdy guy with a terrible hairstyle talking about building a 10,000-chip cluster to train his own models. We didn’t take him seriously. He couldn’t articulate his vision other than saying: ‘I WANT TO BUILD THIS, AND IT WILL BE A GAME CHANGE.’ We thought this was only possible from giants like ByteDance and Alibaba.”

Third, real success is built on Action. This is hardly mind-blowing news, but there is more to it than meets the eye. You may have a clear sense of meaning but find it almost impossible to make things happen – to turn meaning and thought into action. Be thoughtful about meaning but don’t let that paralyze you. Liang conveyed:

“China’s AI cannot remain a follower forever. China must gradually transition from being a beneficiary to a contributor, rather than continuing to ride on the coattails of others… We’re done following. It’s time to lead.”

“We never intended to be a disruptor; it just happened by accident.”

“We believe that both AI and API services should be affordable and accessible to everyone.”

Liang’s success is characterized by his focus on innovation and efficiency. He believes in pushing the boundaries of AI and making advanced technology accessible to everyone. Under his guidance, DeepSeek has prioritized transparency and cost-efficiency, challenging established players in the AI industry.

Liang’s vision for DeepSeek is to contribute to the global AI landscape by developing original, cutting-edge models and promoting open-source technology. His approach has not only garnered attention but also sparked discussions about the future of AI development.

Is DeepSeek real? You may judge it for yourself. By the way, many years ago, I was taken aback by a similar surprising advancement from China. Upon visiting a newly-opened local store, I discovered a Made-in-China screwdriver and air freshener priced at just a fraction of their leading Western counterparts. Is DeepSeek a familiar narrative with a novel state-of-the-art twist?

Let me conclude with the profound words of Niccolo Machiavelli:

“Nothing is more difficult than to introduce a new order. Because the innovator has for enemies all those who have done well under the old conditions and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new.”

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing Ai-powered Co-Pilot

Head photo courtesy of Vecteezy

Still photos courtesy of LeMonde, Pngtree, Pinterest, Freepik, & iStock

MAHARLIKA INVESTMENT FUND & ICC: TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN

 

(The following scripted episode is an original creation inspired by the television show “The Simpsons.” This content is a fictional parody and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the creators, producers, or distributors of “The Simpsons.”)

Scene: Exterior of Springfield’s newest establishment, “Simpson’s Savings Bank.” There’s a modest crowd gathered for the grand opening. A stage is set with a podium. Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie are on stage, with a banner above reading, “Grand Opening!”

Homer: (grabs the mic) Welcome, everyone, to Simpson Savings Bank! Your money is safer with us than a donut in my hands! (chuckles)

Marge: (smiling nervously) We are here to serve you and your financial needs with the utmost respect and…integrity.

Lisa: (in a whisper) Um, Mom, are you sure Bart should be part of this?

Bart: (grinning) Relax, Lis. I’ve got this.

Lisa: That’s what worries me.

Homer: Springfieldians, we know money stuff can be boring. But not with us! We’ve got a special announcement for all you potential depositors out there. Drum roll, please!

Lisa: (rolling her eyes) This is going to be good…

Homer: We are open for business!

Ned Flanders: (raising his hand) Uh, I’m a bit concerned about the, er, transparency and ethics of your operations!

Marge: (stepping in) Oh, Ned, don’t worry! We’re just having a bit of fun. We take your money very seriously.

Audience Member: (calling out) But isn’t Bart known for his, um, questionable activities? 

Homer: Folks, let me put your worries to rest. Sure, Bart pulled a prank or two in his day, but when it comes to your money, I promise to keep our hands clean.

Audience Member: But you did nothing to deal with Bart’s wrongdoing?

Homer: Okay, let me put it this way: We are open for business, but if you think we’re doing something wrong and will judge us, leave us alone.

Crowd: (murmurs of confusion and laughter)

Mayor Quimby: (scratching his head) Well, as the mayor, I must say – this is the most intriguing bank launch I’ve ever attended!

Homer: (grinning) That’s the spirit, Mayor! And remember, our vaults are as secure as Mom’s secret ingredient in her meatloaf. So come on in, everyone! Have some snacks, open an account, and we’ll make some money together -- Simpson style!

Maggie: (sucking on her pacifier, a speech bubble appears) “Welcome to the Simpson Savings Bank!”

Narrator: (voice-over) And so, Springfield gains a new financial institution, run by the most unpredictable family in town. Will their savings soar, or will it be another classic Simpson’s catastrophe? Stay tuned!

End Scene.

A striking contradictory signs on the PH door

Simpson’s new financial institution faces a dilemma mirroring the one confronting the Philippines today, stemming from two crucial factors: Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) and the International Criminal Court (ICC). I wrote about this in my July 22, 2023, ATABAY article MIF & ICC: How Two Notices Reveal the Contradictions of President Bongbong Marcos (PBBM) Economic Vision.

“Open for business”

“Leave us alone”

What impression do you get when you see these two notices on the front door? Confused?

The first notice “Open for business” signals the intention behind the following headlines:

“Marcos signs Maharlika Investment Fund bill into Law” – Philstar 

“Marcos backs Maharlika fund: ‘We need added investment’” – Inquirer

The second notice “Leave us alone” reflects the defiance of the following headline:

“Marcos: PH ending all involvement with ICC” – CNN Philippines

Due to the glaring contradiction, we must ask the same question as in Simpson’s case: Will the MIF investment soar, or will it be a classic catastrophe?

Let’s be fair, PBBM tried to make the MIF soar. Let’s recall PBBM’s words:

“Magpapakilala muna tayo. Kapag hindi tayo bumiyahe at nagpakita sa mga conference na yan, hindi nila tayo iniisip. Wala sa isipan nila ang Pilipinas. Kailangan natin ipakita kung ano ang atin para mapaganda ang POTENTIAL INVESTMENTS nila na dadalhin dito sa Pilipinas.” (Underscoring mine)

Globetrotting PBBM's travel escapades. Source: Wikipedia

Rigoberto Tiglao spotted the handwriting on the wall in his December 18, 2024 column Foreign Investment Drastically Falling…:

“FDI into the Philippines has been halved in the second year of the Marcos, Jr. administration. Add to that the reduction in Philippine exports by $2 billion in the same period, and the Philippines faces a foreign exchange crisis on the horizon.

"Obviously, Marcos’s 10 visits to capital-rich nations – after each he announced billions of dollars in investment pledges – have been fictions of his mind.”

ABS-CBN bared on August 14, 2024, Maharlika Fund ‘Still Scouting’ For Investment Opportunities: DOF. It reported the Department of Finance’s stance, revealing that the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) has yet to make any investment nearly a year after it was set up. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the MIF firm is still setting up shop.

No doubt, that’s a head-scratcher. We don’t need rocket science to connect the dots. Like in the Simpson’s crowd, the world market has taken the contradictory signs with “murmurs of confusion,” hopefully not “laughter” by such a striking contradiction on the PH door:

On MIF: “We are open for business”

On ICC: “Leave us alone”

Rightly and not surprisingly, the following latest developments have grabbed the headlines:

Latest headlines on ICC

“Philippines to ‘respond favorably’ if ICC seeks Interpol” – Reuters

“Philippines to cooperate if ICC issues warrant” – Rappler

“PH may hand over ICC suspects to Interpol” – Inquirer

For sure, the Philippines has decidedly figured out its contradiction. Inevitably, the House quad committee recommended that former President Duterte, along with his close confidants and Senators Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go, be charged with crimes against humanity.

This latest turn of events paints a picture of a promising “step in the right direction towards achieving justice for the thousands of victims of extrajudicial killings” under the Duterte administration.

In retrospect, I recounted in my January 27, 2024, ATABAY article ICC Cryptic Message: The Stone Will Cry Out the following excerpts of Bato's dramatic disclosure in an interview:

“I am afraid of going to jail. Takot ako na makulong dahil kawawa ang mga apo ko at hindi ko na makita.”

I’ve conjured up an image of Bato watching his immovable wall slowly collapse, piece by piece. We recall that Duterte erected such a preemptive wall during his reign. No less than the New York Times bannered in 2019 Duterte’s self-protected act: Philippine Officially Leaves the International Criminal Court.

ICC cryptic message

In my ATABAY article, I shared an uncanny optical illusion image that plays tricks on readers’ vision. For an intuitive mind, one could make out the following cryptic message: The stones will cry out. Strangely enough, it was taken from Jesus’ words in Luke 19:40 of the Bible: “I tell you, if they were to keep silent, the stones would cry out.” All at once, we could, without question, figure out “they” for the drug war victims.

I concluded my article with the following reassuring statement:

“If Senator Bato truly loves his apos, he must tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Then he will know the Truth, and the Truth will set him free. (John 8:32)”

Be not afraid. (Luke 2:10)

Content and editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing AI-powered Co-Pilot

Head collage photos courtesy of Shutterstock, iStock, MIF, and Canva

MIF & ICC collage photos courtesy of Graphix Place, Signs & Lines, Sound Cloud, Shutterstock, Business Mirror, and Vector Stock

Other still photos courtesy of iStock, Pngtree, Vecteezy, & Facebook

MADE IN USA UNWELCOME OUTCOME

 

(The title above has nothing to do with the 47th US president. Any meaning suggested is purely a coincidence.)

“My next piece will be penned in the Philippines.”

That was the line in my December 30 ATABAY article, which I wrote during our vacation in the U.S. This piece, which I am now writing, is the “next piece” I had meant to pen after my wife Cher and I got back to our homeland, the Philippines, two weeks ago.

The weary load of the actual long air travel, along with the psycho-emotional build-ups, has made returning to my normal writing mood quite an uphill climb. Additionally, the usual challenge of sparking my writing in a different setting further compounded my dilemma.

The moment we arrived home after a long absence I was confronted with the sight of a house worn out by the forces of nature and the passage of time. The front yard garden needed trimming and a makeover, the long idle car in our garage required restoration to working order – a new battery to be installed, a broken luggage compartment cable to be replaced, a defective passenger door lock to be repaired, an air-conditioning system to be fixed, a flat tire to be vulcanized, and an expired registration to be renewed.

                                  Our front yard                                                      Our car

But none of those distractions could have turned off the flow of my writing juices like the glaring reality of my one missing front tooth. "This is Made in U.S.A." – I grin as I quip each time Cher teases me.

Looking back, a week before we flew home to the Philippines, I broke and lost one weak front tooth jacket when I munched on a tough grub in Texas. (Thank goodness, it didn’t happen right after we landed in the US. Dental care procedures there would cost anyone an arm and a leg. I realized this when our friend Edith broke and lost her lower front tooth chomping a macadamia nut while watching Queen Esther play in Branson, Missouri. Fixing it was sky-high.)

Losing and eventually living with one missing front tooth feels self-conscious, socially awkward, and uncomfortable, especially when interacting with people. It may look cute on a smiling toddler, but for a senior, it adds more years to one’s appearance. On top of that, it affects not only your eating pleasure but also your karaoke singing, particularly in songs with lots of “f” words in the lyrics.

            That's not me. That's Tom Cruise with a missing tooth. And neither is the cute child.

The other day, I went to the bank and was glad to find all its staff wearing face masks – a pandemic health precaution hangover. I would stand up for such a precautionary health practice anytime and anyplace, as it would hide my one missing front tooth by wearing a face mask myself.

Yesterday, on a sunny morning, I began the first session of the root canal three dental procedures to restore my one missing tooth. As I sat comfortably on the ergonomic dental chair in the typically cool and tranquil clinic, the masked dentist smiled (I could see it in her eyes) and gently started to prepare for the procedure. The room was calm, with a hint of lavender in the air, and I could hear the faint hum of the dental equipment.

I took a deep breath (heeding the tip: Focus on breathing. Practice deep, slow breaths to maintain a calm state) as the dentist approached. She made a small opening in my tooth to access the pulp. I could feel it (heeding the tip: Educate yourself. Knowledge is power. Understand the procedure you’ll undergo. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety.)

I closed my eyes and let my mind wander (heeding the tip: Visualize success. Picture yourself going through the procedure calmly and successfully. Visualization can help train your brain to approach the experience with confidence. Set reassuring drift: “I am calm and in control. I trust my dentist”).

My dental team

The sensation was strange but not painful, a gentle pressure that felt distant and almost surreal.

She began to remove the damaged pulp. I could hear the sound of the files working inside my tooth, but it felt like it’s happening in a different world. I imagined tiny miners diligently clearing away debris, making way for a new, healthy foundation. (As a civil engineer, I know full well the value of a strong foundation. Heeding the tip: Stay positive. Remind yourself of the benefits of the procedure and how it will improve your overall dental health.)

With the pulp removed, the canals were cleaned and shaped. Her hands moved with precision, and I imagined a sculptor chiseling away, creating smooth and perfect pathways inside my tooth. Each movement was careful and deliberate. She confided to me later that she ensured that every bit of infection was cleared away.

Then she filled the canals sealing them securely with a filling that acted as a protective shield, guarding my tooth as it healed.

I knew full well this was just the beginning of the restoration of my one missing front tooth, but I already felt a sense of accomplishment and relief.

As I sat up and thanked my dentist, I felt a wave of gratitude. The procedure was long and intricate, but it’s a testament to the wonders of modern dentistry and the skilled hands of my dentist. 

Leaving the clinic with a lighter heart, I clicked on the top stories on my mobile phone and came across the following headline:

“Trump sworn in as 47th president as US braces for a new era of disruption and division”

It tells of the historic return of Donald Trump to the Oval Office with his promise to end America’s decline. On the flip side, his radical shift in policies, including aggressive actions on immigration, economic nationalism, and cultural conservatism, are expected to create substantial upheaval and polarization within the country.

I was surprised by how bland such breaking news felt compared to the personal triumph of having my tooth given a new lease on life.

Thanks, Doc Angel. Any meaning my dentist’s real name suggested, I hope, is much more than purely a coincidence.

Content and editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing AI-powered Co-Pilot

Head photo courtesy of Cruz Label

Still photos courtesy of E! News, Alamy, FB Smile Concepts Iligan, Shutterstock, and Getty Images

A TALE OF TWO HOSTS: TWIN SERENDIPITIES OF GENEROSITY

 

A few months back…

I looked out the window of the guest room in our Texas home (left photo), the vibrant colors of late fall filling the view. The trees stood cloaked in amber and crimson, their leaves drifting slowly to the ground, one by one. The sky stretched blue and infinite above them, sunlight filtering weakly through the branches, casting long, reaching shadows across the ground.

Our bedroom window view

This morning…

I looked out the same window of the guest room in our Texas home (right photo), and the grayish colors of winter now hung over the view. The trees, once adorned with vibrant foliage, stood bare and skeletal, their limbs stark against the overcast sky, as if mourning the approach of an ending. The ground was a patchwork of withered grass and scattered leaves, remnants of the autumn splendor now faded and seemed to share in our sorrows, as if nature understood the burden of our imminent departure.

The sky, heavy with clouds, stretched like a brooding canvas above, offering no hint of sunlight to pierce through the dispiriting gloom, loomed cold and distant, as if it too felt the ache of goodbye. It was a snowless winter scene, where the chill in the air seemed to hold everything in a quiet, somber embrace, resonated with poignant sadness we’ve carried, echoing our own quiet farewell.

In just a few days…

Our time in Texas would close, and my wife Cher and I would journey back to our homeland, the Philippines, our hearts heavy with mixed emotions.

It was a lethargic afternoon, and to soothe my heavy heart, I opened my laptop. With a few clicks, I navigated to Google Chrome, YouTube, and finally, Love Songs in Piano – Best Melodies of Love. Soft music filled the room, offering a gentle balm to my weary spirit. Seeking further distraction, I opened a new tab to peruse the latest news. To my surprise, the headline that greeted me mirrored my somber mood:

“Olivia Hussey, Star of 1968 Romeo and Juliet, Dies At 73,”

As I absorbed the sad news, to my amazement, the piano serendipitously began playing A Time For Us, the iconic love theme from Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet, arranged by Henry Mancini.

Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting in Romeo and Juliet balcony scene

A time for us someday there’ll be

When chains are torn by courage born of a love that’s free…

A time for us, someday there’ll be, a new world

A world of shining hope for you and me.

The melody transported me back to my high school days when the film’s romantic duo, Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey, mesmerized us all. Their on-screen chemistry captivated a generation, creating memories that have lingered through the years.

(Strangely enough, have we, as Pinoys, ever pondered how the essence of the song’s lyrics speaks to our deep-seated love for our suffering country?)

This languid afternoon, steeped in serendipity, stirred memories of our five-month journey from Belgium to Texas. It was a divine gift, a twin package of blessings.

In Belgium, Mario and his Merlita (Angga) were our generous hosts, a story I detailed in my ATABAY article Our Belgian Journey: A Story of Friendship & Faith. Mario, a Belgian citizen, invited Cher and me to visit Belgium not as mere tourists, but as cherished guests with visitor visas. The country’s complex bureaucracy is too rigorous, often deterring tourists with its stringent visa application process.

Home of our Belgium hosts, Mario & Angga

Yet Mario went above and beyond to facilitate our visit. He painstakingly arranged a signed invitation letter, detailing our personal relationship, the purpose of our visit, the duration of our 26-day stay, and his address. He provided proof of his legal status, evidence of our accommodation at his residence, and financial support, including his bank pension statements. These government requirements ensured that Cher and I would be properly cared for throughout our stay in his country.

In an eye-popping gesture of generosity, Mario even sent us money for our round-trip tickets. This act of kindness left us stunned, as we, typical retirees, could hardly afford the expensive cost ourselves. Moreover, we couldn’t fathom why we deserved such immense kindness. Mario’s common-law spouse, Merlita, had been our children’s nanny before moving to Belgium, but such a distant past relationship seemed insufficient to warrant such extraordinary generosity.

Belgium journey photos

God works in mysterious ways, using unexpected people like Mario to bless those who love Him. On our subsequent journey to the U.S., Cher and I experienced another delightful touch of divine serendipity.

Drawing from His boundless mystery, we were blessed with, wonder of wonders, a Mario 2.0 in the person of Ed. In my previous ATABAY article, Christmas Morning Reflections: Embracing Faith & Gratitude, I detailed Ed’s similar generosity. Sharing this again feels fitting, given the remarkable kindness he has shown to Cher and me, a kindness that transcends any sense of proportion.

Ed & Ray in front of our host's Texas home

“[M]y wife Cher and I have been living a life of gratitude here in Texas, thanks to the generosity of Ed, my high school classmate I hadn’t seen in over 50 years. He welcomed us with a four-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Branson, Missouri – The Live Music Show Capital of the World – with new friend Edith as our travel guide.

“Ed has accommodated us in a guest bedroom with an adjoining fitness and game room, in his high-end home in a prominent community. He has provided everything: food, winter outfits, toiletries, and personal essentials, like seniors’ supplements and medicines.”

    Texas trip photos

And thus, we arrive at this article's unexpected revelation graciously shared by our generous hosts.

Merlita: "Mario doesn't have religion; but he is a kind person."

Ed: "At the end of each grading period [in high school, interestingly enough, I was the class valedictorian], I would look at the posted exam results for each subject, starting from the bottom of the lists, where I usually found my name. If I just passed, I rejoiced..."

Indeed, God works in mysterious ways, sometimes using unexpected people like Mario and Ed, who selflessly offer their generosity to others.

As this year draws to a close, so too does my series of ATABAY articles I've been putting together here in the U.S. My next piece will be penned in the Philippines. Let me conclude this final article with a poem.

From distant shores of the Philippines, we came,

Drawn by twin kindness, the duo’s bright flame

To Belgium, the Europe’s heart, and Texas’ charm

Mario and Ed, you welcomed us with open arms.

From Avelgem, Mario led us to many spectacles

Through Brussels’ streets and Ghent’s old walls

Into Bruges’ canals and on Frankenberger’s shore

To Lourdes, France, the pilgrims’ site we adore

In Texas, we’ve tasted American life a bit

Going through Walmart, Lowes, Ranch Market

Super Target, Asian Buffet, Allen Premium Outlet

To name a few, Ed likes us to be familiar with

We've stayed in the guest room of his high-end home

Provides our needs from daily bread to mobile phone

We’re driven to wherever we go in his Mercedez Benz

If hard at work, a prepaid Uber ride comes on the scene

In wondrous ways, God’s grace unfolds so grand

Through our hosts Mario and Ed’s generous hands,

Their unexpected kindness, a serendipitous thread

Blesses those who love Him, where His love is spread.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Our hosts Mario & Ed

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing AI-powered Co-pilot

Head collage courtesy of Canva & Adobe Stock

Romeo and Juliet photo courtesy of Shutterstock

CHRISTMAS MORNING REFLECTIONS: EMBRACING FAITH & GRATITUDE

 

Wednesday, December 25

The screen clock glowed softly – 5:04 AM – on this early Christmas morning here in Texas. As I opened my laptop, I found myself drawn to the Catholic Daily Reflections site. I read the scriptural readings for the day and a poignant reflection titled Pondering the Birth of Christ. Here’s an excerpt:

“Mother Mary was the one person who would have understood the mystery of the birth of her son – the Son of God, the Savior of the World – far more than anyone else. It was to her that the Archangel Gabriel appeared, announcing her pregnancy and His birth. It was she who carried her son, the Son of God, in her Immaculate womb for nine months. It was to her that Elizabeth, her cousin, cried out: Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.(Luke 1:42)

Mother Mary & Baby Jesus 

“It was Mary who was the Immaculate Conception, the one who was preserved from all sin throughout her life. And it was her who gave birth to this Child, carried Him in her arms, and nursed Him at her breast. Our Blessed Mother, more than any other, understood the incredible event that has taken place in her life.”

This profound reflection took me back to an unforgettable experience my wife and I had during our visa interview at the U.S. embassy in Manila, a story I previously shared in my ATABAY article, The Interview Question That Almost Denied Our U.S. Visa Applications.

On that day, we anxiously queued and approached the booth of the U.S. Consular Officer (CO). As we listened to the exchanges between the CO and the applicants, we saw many hopefuls leave with grim expressions, having faced rejections. One exchange stood out:

CO: “What will you do in the U.S.?”

Lady Applicant: “I am a Christian missionary.”

CO: “Could you tell me about the ‘Immaculate Conception’?”

A long deafening silence ensued. The CO sudden verdict followed.

CO: “I’m sorry.”

Had the applicant known the details from the Daily Catholic Reflections, she might have passed the interview.

As I continued to reflect on the Scriptures amidst the cold foggy Christmas morning, I stumbled upon passages in Luke’s Nativity story, where an angel of the Lord introduces Jesus to the shepherds on the night of His birth. This scene of introduction reminded me of a personal introduction I recently encountered.

Cher, Ray, & Ruth

During our stay in Texas, I had the rare opportunity to meet Ruth, my high school classmate, whom I hadn’t seen for more than 50 years. Ruth, my partner in high school folk dances like La Jota Moncadeña and La Estudiantina under the tutelage of Mrs. Aquino, treated my wife and me to dinner at an all-you-can-eat Asian Buffet. She introduced me to her husband, Caloy, who said, “Ruth mentioned you were their high school class valedictorian.”

A few days later, Ruth and Caloy invited us to a Christmas candle-lighting worship service at their home. Ruth introduced me to her community as the high school valedictorian.

Attended the Christmas candle-lighting service at Ruth's home

Even in elementary school, being at the top of the class was a distinct honor. Every time I visited my affluent classmates’ homes, I was introduced to their parents as “our first honor,” rather than just “son of so-and-so.”

Later that evening, Ruth’s community pastor, Richard, chatted with me. We exchanged Facebook and website credentials, and I learned he was a Summa Cum Laude for one of his three master’s degrees, plus a doctorate.

I couldn’t help but think: What if I had been introduced as “our high school valedictorian and college summa cum laude”? If only I hadn’t let my college ambitions slip away. Reflecting on my college years, I realized I had abandoned my pursuit of academic excellence when I started dating during my sophomore year, choosing instead to gratify myself with life’s fleeting pleasures.

Speaking of gratification, my wife and I have been living a life of gratitude here in Texas, thanks to the generosity of Ed, another high school classmate I hadn’t seen in over 50 years. He welcomed us with a four-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Branson, Missouri – The Live Music Show Capital of the World -- with new friend Edith as our travel guide.

Branson, Missouri trip

Ed has accommodated us in a guest bedroom with an adjoining fitness and game room, in his high-end home in a prominent community. He has provided us with everything we need, from food, winter outfits, and toiletries to personal essentials like seniors' supplements and medicines.

He drives us in his Mercedez Benz SUV to church on Sundays and to grocery stores or shopping centers when needed. When he’s busy, he arranges prepaid Uber rides for us.

In front of Ed's home                            Inside of Ruth's home

Here's the plot twist in this narrative.

Ed gave a quick peek at his striking academic life in high school conveying a significant undercurrent.

“I went to high school wearing a pair of old shoes with a hole in each sole… “

“At the end of each grading period, I would look at the posted exam results for each subject, starting from the bottom of the lists where I usually found my name. If I just passed, I rejoiced…”

As I reflect on this Christmas season, a fitting closing message emerges. After 50 years, when Ed’s image resurfaced, all of a sudden, in our high school class radar screen, it was perceived as a mystery. What is the key to his success: hard work, challenge, or perseverance?

Rather than dissecting it now, I choose to embrace the essence of the following insight:

Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. (Luke 2:19) Even Mary needed time to ponder, reflect, and savor the most holy mystery.

When the heaven-sent time comes, I hope to be the first to uncover the storyline -- to grace the pages of my ATABAY yet to come.

Christmas dinner at Ruth's home

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing Ai-operated Co-pilot

Head photo courtesy of Png Aura

BRAIN ROT: THE DIGITAL AGE MENTAL CRISIS

 

Lying on her bed, the glow of her smartphone screen illuminated her face in the dimly lit room. Sophia, a typical young netizen, had been scrolling through her social media feeds for hours, lost in an endless stream of low-quality content. Her fingers moved almost reflexively, swiping up, down, and sideways, as her mind absorbed the barrage of information.

First, there was a TikTok video of a cat wearing sunglasses, and dancing to the latest viral song. She chuckled, her brain registering the fleeting amusement before moving on to a series of Instagram posts by influencers flaunting their meticulously curated meals. Sophia felt a pang of envy but quickly dismissed it, her thumb already poised for the next swipe.

A YouTube short caught her attention--a prank video in which someone pretended to spill coffee on unsuspecting strangers. The laughter was contagious, but the humor was shallow, leaving no lasting impression. Then came the X (formerly Twitter) thread, filled with heated arguments and sensational headlines, each tweet more provocative than the last. Sophia’s heart raced as she read through the comments, the adrenaline rush of online drama pulling her deeper into the digital abyss.

Hours passed, and Sophia’s eyes grew heavy, yet she couldn’t tear herself away. The content was addictive, and each piece was designed to capture her attention for a moment longer. She barely noticed the time slipping away, her mind numbed by the constant stimulation.

This is the reality of brain rot, the Oxford University Press 2024 Word of the Year, a term that has gained prominence in our digital age. It reflects a growing concern about the impact of excessive low-quality online content on our mental abilities. But what exactly does brain rot mean, and how does it connect to the mental processes in our brain? Moreover, what are the political implications of this phenomenon in an era with rampant disinformation? Let’s pick apart these questions in depth.

Understanding Brain Rot

Brain rot is a colloquial term that describes a perceived decline in critical thinking and mental sharpness, often attributed to the overconsumption of low-quality online content. This term highlights the concern that our brains are deteriorating due to constant exposure to superficial content, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok.

As Word of the Year, brain rot captures the zeitgeist of our time, where digital media consumption is all over the place and often overwhelming. It reflects a broader societal anxiety about the impact of technology on our mental health.

Mental Framework: Kahneman’s Systems

In my January 7, 2022, ATABAY article, Juan Tamad Within Us May Elect Our Next President, I explored the two systems in our brain described by Nobel Prize laureate Daniel Kahneman in his book Thinking, Fast and Slow. System 1 thinking is fast, automatic, and requires little effort (e.g., 2 + 2 = what?). It’s the system we rely on for quick judgments and intuitive responses. In contrast, System 2 thinking is slow, deliberate, and effortful, used for complex reasoning and problem-solving (e.g., reading an article and weighing its arguments).

The connection between brain rot and these two systems of thinking lies in our increasing reliance on System 1 thinking due to the nature of digital media. Consuming low-quality, fast-paced content often engages System 1 thinking, leading to a decline in the use of System 2 thinking, which can contribute to the phenomenon of brain rot.

The Impact of Digital Media

The overconsumption of low-quality online content aggravates brain rot by catering to our mental laziness. Platforms like TikTok are designed to hold our attention with short, engaging clips that trigger instant emotional responses. This constant stimulation makes it harder for us to engage in activities that require sustained, effortful thinking.

When we frequently indulge in content prioritizing speed and simplicity over depth and complexity, we condition our brains to favor System 1 thinking. This can lead to a diminished capacity for critical thinking and analytical skills -- hallmarks of a System 2 thinker.

Political Implications

In the political context, the implications of brain rot are profound. Kahneman’s insight that repetition makes people more likely to believe falsehoods plays a crucial role here. Authoritarian regimes and political operatives exploit this mental bias to spread disinformation and manipulate public perception.

Examples of Fear-Based Political Repetition Manipulation

Adolf Hitler wielded fear as a tool, at every turn, to unite Germany against Jews, whom he referred to as a dangerous bacillus, and other perceived enemies. This strategy garnered widespread support for his extreme policies.

Rodrigo Duterte and Donald Trump share striking similarities, as evidenced by their interviews with the press.

Maria Ressa once asked Duterte, known as the Trump of Asia:

“Is it important that people be afraid of you?”

His reply?

“Fear…there must be fear.”

Duterte once compared himself to Hitler, using fear to rally the impoverished Filipinos against drug addicts, whom he referred to as zombies. Ironically, Duterte’s former right-hand man labeled him the lord of all drug lords, and a House of Representatives Committee investigation concluded that Duterte was at the center of a criminal syndicate involved in illegal drug trade and other crimes.

In a CNN interview, Bob Woodward reflected on the view of power by Trump, who said:

“Real Power is fear. You have to scare people.”

American journalist and Trump’s longtime pal Geraldo Rivera (who just grabbed headlines predicting Trump to seek a third term) speaks volumes:

“[Trump’s] major strategic decision was to demonize illegal immigrants, which he did with gusto. He made the undocumented synonymous with rapists and murderers. He asserted they were poisoning the blood of the country, vermin, animals, and dog-and-cat eaters from floating islands of garbage. He and his mouthpieces appealed unabashedly to every prejudice and fear of the other. It was wicked effective. He made Americans believe the country we all love was being stolen from under us.”

Reflecting on the profound implications of brain rot and its connection to zeitgeist–the defining spirit of our time--we are left with a striking question: Is it mere coincidence that Oxford University Press Word of the Year is brain rot and Time Magazine Person of the Year is Donald Trump?

As we immerse ourselves in a deluge of low-quality online content, we imperil our mental faculties, fostering a decline in critical thinking and mental sharpness. In reflecting upon this pervasive issue, it is fitting to heed the poignant words of M. Scott Peck, renowned author of The Road Less Traveled:

“One of the major dilemmas we face as individuals and as a society is simplistic thinking – or the failure to think at all. It is not a problem; it is the problem.”

Indeed, as we stand at the crossroads of an era dominated by digital consumption, the burden is upon us to preserve the sanctity of our minds. By consciously engaging with enriching, high-quality content (ATABAY, anyone?) and nurturing our capacity for deep, reflective thought, we can counteract the insidious effects of brain rot and reclaim our intellectual vitality. The path forward demands a commitment to mental integrity and an unwavering resolve to rise above the superficiality that threatens to dull our minds.

Head photo courtesy of Bnews.vu

Still photos courtesy of Adobe Stock, YouTube, Instagram, Getty Images, Quartz, & Depositphotos