Rewired

INCIDENT:
So today I learned to rewire a light fixture. Nice. Who knew that I would be learning to do electrical while pursuing a degree in psychology? Then I realized that this must be right. When all of your paths come together and it makes sense, then its a special moment. Seemingly divergent paths, which always made theoretical sense, find a point of intersection.

MORAL:
This is the first time that I consciously realized that not only does my background have practical applications in my current pursuits but I also have an opportunity to provide a different but relevant perspective. And in that light, everyone has a unique perspective as a result of life experiences. We should celebrate the beauty of these differences. It is in the differences that we define yourselves perhaps more then our similarities. For example, I have always considered myself an architect and when people ask me what I do, I pause... I don't know what to say. I identify as an architect first before a psychologist or even a scientist. Why wouldn't I? I've spent a lot of time in the architecture world. But I think the bigger factor is that I still feel like an outsider or rather an impostor in science. And since these days I find myself among more scientists than architects, I default to my difference but perhaps only cause I am not secure enough to do otherwise.

But when I am among other architects, they consider me the scientist. And while I should relish in the fact that I have sought an alternate path in architecture, I feel insulted not to still be considered an architect to other architects. Some people presume that I have chosen not to pursue a career in architecture simply based on my choice not to engage in traditional architectural practice. Let's be clear. First, this choice is not a standing decision about my future career pursuits. I do want to participate in the design process and I do want to get licensed. Second, alternative roles in architecture are just as important as traditional roles. We all have a common goal - to advance the art and science of the field of architecture. Finally, we all have the right to make the choice about what we think is the best way to accomplish our personal goals. And in exercising this right, we should respect the decision of others.

So what's the point of this rant? While rewiring the light fixture today, I realized that I do belong in science. I have something to contribute and that contribution is directly related to my background. While I feel insecure among scientists about my abilities and knowledge, I felt the same way when I first started out in architecture. In time, the abilities and knowledge will come. But in the meantime, I should feel proud to be both an architect and a psychologist. I am engaged in both fields, right?

It's Official!

INCIDENT:
So the other day I finally transferred my driver's license, title and registration. After three months of living here, I finally went down the DMV and the Driver's License Office to fill out the paperwork. I was really dreading the trip because I had to go to two different offices on two different sides of the city. So I decided I would just try to tackle one job at a time.

I first went to the registration office because my California registration was already expired. Whoops. And in the end it only took about 30 minutes including waiting to transfer my title and registration. And to boot, the woman who helped me was really great. Looking down on my watch, I saw that I might be able to make it over to the driver's license place as well. So I jumped in my car and sped off. Once again a really nice person helped process the paperwork and then I had to take the written test. Boo. But wait, it's open book! Yay! I handed in my completed test and waited for the results. I still managed to get a couple wrong. What? I smell something fishy. But I passed, so I didn't inquire any further about the missed questions.

So it is official. I'm a resident of the Beehive State.

Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah; Photo credit: MRT

MORAL:
Why did it take me so long to transfer my license? I don't think I had come to terms with the idea of Utah being my home. And when I first moved to California, it also took me several months to transfer my license. I have come to realize that it's a symbol of moving on mentally. I loved California and I love the many friends that I made there. While I was there, I grew up a lot personally, intellectually, and professionally. I learned about the strength of relationships and the support of friends. I questioned my role as a teacher and as a student. I found new abilities and acknowledged weaknesses. And I definitely have a new awareness of the importance of the weather.

And while I still hold on tight to the memories, I have to accept and be open to the possibilities that this new place holds. I can't compare the two places. Each holds unique traits. And more opportunities to grow.

I want to be a Tigger!

INCIDENT:
Randy Pausch is a Computer Science professor at my Alma mater, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). He was well known for his interdisciplinary classes and work, particularly the "Building Virtual Worlds" course. Pausch has been fighting pancreatic cancer and recently found out that there was nothing more that they could do, he has 6 months to live. As part of a lecture series at CMU, Pausch presented his "Last Lecture." It has gained momentum online and now it has more than one million views. Recently, Pausch presented a condensed version of his talk on Oprah.

Complete Video - Randy Pausch's Lecture - "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams"

10-minute Condensed Oprah version - "Randy Pausch's Last Lecture"

Randy Pausch Lecture Website (includes transcript and links)

I recommend watching at least the 10 minute version of his talk, though you'll probably want to watch the full version after you see the condensed version.

MORAL:
This gets back to the idea of perseverance and attitude. And if you are not inspired by this lecture then I am guessing you might be an Eeyore. But don't fret... there is still hope.

Many of the themes in Randy's lecture echo the ideals that I try to live by. And while it is difficult at times to maintain high energy and a positive attitude, I do believe it goes a long way. Good karma does come if you recognize it. It's also true that you should never give up on your childhood dreams and even more so... you should always encourage the dreams of others.

Scientists Gone Wild

INCIDENT:
What's up with Nobel Laureates? Recently James Watson, of DNA molecular structure discovery fame, made some crazy comments about the intelligence of Africans in an interview with The Sunday Times.

Black people 'less intelligent' scientist claims

MORAL:
Now what exactly compels someone who is primarily known for his intelligence, and in science mind you, to make comments without any real scientific basis? Well, granted he eluded to "tests" that have been done but I haven't been too successful in tracking them down. But generalizing over all "blacks" is where I can say he is at fault. Sure there will be genetic differences across populations, but to say that all of a population is this or that, is simply not true. We all know exceptions to the stereotypes.

There were some interesting comments posted on the site in response to the article. One question was regarding society's reaction/acceptance if scientific evidence was found to support Watson's claims. This is a really fascinating question. If science finds data to counter our societal norms, we will be able to accept it? And even if science does find evidence to the contrary of our beliefs as a society, how much weight can we really give to it? In a world where scientific research is constantly being manipulated or misinterpreted in the popular media, would such research start acceptable widespread stereotyping? Or would it lead us to question our own ideals?

UPDATE: James Watson's comments were denounced by his colleagues at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which subsequently has lead to his suspension as president and director of the laboratory. Watson was on a book tour promoting his new book, ‘Avoid Boring People: Lessons from a Life in Science’, when he received word of his suspension. He canceled his book tour in light of recent events.

You can read his response to his reported comments here: Scientist James Watson flies home after employers suspend him

UPDATE TO THE UPDATE: James Watson has retired as President and Chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. You can read the announcement here: Dr. James D. Watson Retires as Chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Toast to Change

INCIDENT:
For the past three years I have been putting on the back burner an important project. I don't know why I didn't finish it sooner because in the end it only took one intense week to finish up. Well, I take that back. It has been an evolving product in the making over the past three years with seven renditions. And without those other sixth renditions, I don't think that the final draft would have come so easily. The point being is that it is no longer hanging over my head and that it is an amazing relief.

MORAL:
Why do I get myself in these ridiculous situations? I know I should be doing certain things but I become paralyzed, which not only hurts myself but those relying on me. So with this huge project out of the way, I have a chance to start over. I need to make a change in my life. No more excuses. With this new pledge, I hope that I can meet my own expectations for myself, that I can rise to the occasion, and that I can be all that I am and should be.

I am looking to you to please hold me to this standard.

Global Problem

INCIDENT:
I thought I would diverge from my normal "empowerment of the individual" posts and look at the global picture. But I want to preface my thoughts with the statement that I do truly believe we should "think globally and act locally." So please keep that in mind.

It is easy to get caught up in the little picture. I mean the little picture is really equated to our day-to-day lives. But I have always believed that it is important to question everything (at least once in awhile). It is easy to assume that things that we consider constants will remain that way. But really everything is changing. And certainly the earth is one of those things.

MORAL:
We are told to recycle, reduce, and reuse. We are told to boycott certain irresponsible companies. We are told not to buy bottled water. We are told to use public transportation instead of driving our personal cars. In fact we are inundated with these types of messages everyday. And while these are all well and good, aren't these just bandaids for a much bigger problem? Why are we not critically questioning the way we live as people? Or our processes?? And not only the obvious processes such as manufacturing, farming, industrial, etc. but also financial, governmental, health, science, etc. I am talking about questioning how we have developed as a society and asking whether there is a better way. We have created a society that is not sustainable. So aside from superficial gestures that allow us to continue this wasteful lifestyle (though be it a bit less wasteful... it is wasteful nonetheless), what can we do as humans to change how we interact with each other and the planet?

I have no answers or suggestions. It is a monumental task. And the unfortunate thing is that they say monumental change does not occur until something devastating happens, and even then it is not certain if that change will last. But we have to be willing to make drastic changes in how we live. Now that we see and are all too aware of our fate if we continue this path, will we have the resolve and courage to do what is right? Or will we wait as we always do and resort to more bandaids?

I want to be Michelle Pfeiffer to their dangerous minds

INCIDENT:
I just watched "Freedom Writers" and I cried like a baby. But anyone could probably tell you that I am a huge sucker for movies about idealistic teachers who inspire their students. How could I not adore films that encourage my aspirations for teaching? And not only that, this one is a true story of a teacher making a real difference in students' lives. How could you not be inspired?

Freedom Writers Foundation

MORAL:
So I am taking a teaching practicum course in school (which is an excellent idea by the way). And considering my previous teaching experience, I wish I took a class like this sooner... I would have probably learned some key lessons faster than I did trying to figure them out on my own.

Anyhow, sometimes we talk about our personal experiences teaching (and I have shared several horror stories and a couple of victories). But one point that has been made during these talks is that we shouldn't hold on to this idealistic view of teaching... Wow. That's a pretty depressing statement considering that is why I am so drawn to teaching. But I realize the practicality in this statement. If you go in expecting that everything will fall into place, that you will have this great rapport with the students, that they will be hungry to learn, and that you have some sort of magical gift to touch their minds and hearts, then you will probably fall short. Believe me... It has happened to me several times. But I don't think it means that you can't hold on to this ideal and believe that it could be better the next time. And perhaps you won't rally a whole class to stand on their desks for you but you could positively affect the academic life of one student. And that has to mean something. Right?

Unbelievable

INCIDENT:
Sunday was the 30th Anniversary of the Chicago Marathon. And on race day there was the worst weather in its history - 88 degrees with severe humidity. Of the around 45,000 registered runners, 10,000 people decided not to participate because of the heat while another 10,000 or so did not even complete the race either because of the heat or because the race course was closed early. There was one reported death during the race (though it was later found during the autopsy that he had a heart problem). And to top it all off there were water shortages and a couple hundred people needing medical attention or hospitalization. It was an epic race.

So with any unbelievable circumstances, you would expect nothing less from those who somehow finished the race. You must check out both the men's and women's finishes as you ponder to yourself how on earth anyone could have anything left at the end of a 26.2 mile race given the weather. What you are watching has be something greater... and if you know how to summon it on will, please please let me know.

Men's Finish - 2007 Chicago Marathon

Women's Finish - 2007 Chicago Marathon

MORAL:
There are moments that you witness that you just know are really special. To be able to reach deep within to find the strength to hold on despite circumstances working against you... that is humanity. And if you are lucky enough to experience it firsthand, hold on to it no matter what. It is sometimes more elusive then we would like...

Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength. -- Author Unknown

Misrepresented

INCIDENT:
Throughout my neuroscience and architecture journey there have been articles written about the naivete of our inquiry. They have questioned the premise of using neuroscience as the foundation for discovery and have wondered why we have not looked at psychology instead. While others have made the blanket assumption that we lack real knowledge of neuroscience or that the journalists have correctly interpreted our statements.

MORAL:
It is incredibly frustrating to be misrepresented especially with anything that you deeply believe in. Each person will have their own interpretation of how an new initiative should be advanced. With any idea, people will come with their own solution or perspective. What is frustrating is that when criticism about one person's beliefs is generalized over all of the people who share a similar (but not the same) belief, we all get hurt. And while my inclination is to run out and shout from the rooftops that this should not be applied to me or to a select group of others, I realize that addressing every misrepresentation is simply not possible. All that I can rely on is the knowledge that I am always consistent in my statements, that a personally pursue sound science, and that I acknowledge my shortcomings.

All the Possibilities

INCIDENT:
I just got back from a trip out east to meet with our collaborators. There were so many interesting research questions posed that it is rather overwhelming but exciting.

MORAL:
Where to start? No, really... There seems to be so many unknowns. Where do we even begin to dissect the problem into manageable parts? It is such an enormous task to figure out how to study such complex phenomenon like object categorization or spatial updating or low vision perception. How do you know what are the right questions to ask? And even when you can get something down to its simplest parts, can it generalize to a broader population or system?

This is going to be an awesome journey... I can tell already.