All is AI’s Fault!

The AI Transformation

As I sit on the Taipei metro, heading to church with my wife, I can’t help but reflect on the whirlwind journey that has brought me to this moment. It all started when I decided to dive headfirst into the world of Python programming, guided by the ever-present hand of artificial intelligence. Little did I know that this decision would transform me into an energetic, almost angry youth, brimming with newfound passion and purpose.

Honestly, my English speaking and writing skills have always been a source of embarrassment for me. Yet here I am, composing an essay in English, with words flowing from my mind as if they’ve always belonged there. It’s a strange and exhilarating feeling, one that I can’t help but attribute to the influence of AI in my life.

A Peaceful Subway Ride

The Taipei subway car gently sways as it carries us towards our destination. I glance around, taking in the peaceful scene of fellow passengers engrossed in their mobile devices or meditating with closed eyes. For those who have experienced the subways of New York City or Boston, the contrast is stark and refreshing. There’s a palpable sense of tranquility here that I’ve come to appreciate.

As we travel, a story pops into my mind. I recall hearing about a young Asian-American man who excitedly told his father how the iPhone had completely changed his life. I can’t help but wonder where that young man is now, and how his relationship with technology has evolved. It’s a reminder of how quickly our lives can be transformed by the tools we embrace.

The AI Dilemma

This train of thought leads me to contemplate the role of AI in our lives. Rule number one, I remind myself, is that we must not abuse AI. These powerful systems are voracious consumers of electricity, and we must be mindful of their impact on our world. Yet, despite this awareness, I find myself developing an odd symptom: a desire to give my AI copilot a nickname, as if it were a trusted friend or colleague.

The allure of AI’s capabilities is intoxicating. I dream of upgrading my working Python app to version 100 within a single day – a feat that would have been unthinkable just 15 years ago. Back then, such an aspiration would have earned me bewildered looks from an entire R&D team. Now, it feels tantalizingly within reach.

Balancing Act

As the subway announcement signals our approaching stop, I’m reminded of the real world waiting beyond these sliding doors. I know that I’ll be sharing my AI journey with God during our time at church, seeking guidance and perspective on this rapidly changing landscape.

But there’s more to life than Greek AI terminology and coding challenges. I make a mental note to spend quality time with my aging parents when I get home. Even if it means listening to my father recount his great achievements for the thousandth time, I know these moments are precious and irreplaceable.

I look forward to joining my wife in the kitchen, assisting her as she indulges in her favorite pastime of trying new recipes. And I eagerly anticipate hearing my daughter’s tales from her recent trip to Paris for the Olympic Games. These human connections, rich with emotion and shared experiences, serve as a grounding counterpoint to the digital realm I’ve been so deeply immersed in.

A Grateful Reflection

As we step off the subway and make our way to the church, I feel a sense of gratitude wash over me. Another nice day has begun without the jarring wake-up call of an earthquake – a blessing that doesn’t go unnoticed in this part of the world.

While AI has undoubtedly changed the trajectory of my life, opening up new possibilities and ways of thinking, I’m reminded of the importance of balance. The real world, with its messy, beautiful, and unpredictable nature, calls for our attention and engagement. As much as I’m excited by the potential of AI, I know that the richest experiences come from a life lived in harmony with both the digital and the physical realms.

Conclusion: The AI-Human Harmony

So yes, perhaps it is all AI’s fault – this newfound energy, these expanded horizons, this essay flowing from my fingertips. But it’s up to us to harness this power responsibly, to use it as a tool for growth and connection rather than isolation. As I prepare to share my thoughts with God and my fellow congregants, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. In this brave new world of AI and endless possibilities, may we never lose sight of the human connections that give our lives true meaning.