The Disintegration of Advancement

It's strange. Every five or ten years, one tends to automatically reflect upon his/her life and measures the significant advancements toward a greater social standard/demographic with respect to old friends and colleagues. Almost every time, we wish to think we've improved further than our peers; our choices being many times smarter, natural, and self-gratifying. Even those who are most modest at times, may have to agree there is some truth to this. We want to believe everything we've done is a resume builder, and everything we will accomplish is worth a position on the glory pedestal.

On the other hand, a degree is just a piece of academia. The places you've been do not change where you are at this point in time. The number of deaths you've seen do not develop you into a more experienced person. And intelligence can never be measured with tests that equate into numbers. Furthermore, you are not your past, your future plans, your current salary, nor the brand of your boxers.

To me, you are a friend, or maybe even a kindred brother. You are alive in a world that may float on 11-dimensions (m-theory), constantly tests your competence, and engages in wars that finance the wealthy. You're everything relative to your efforts (and vice versa). Hence, the next time you see me on the street, don't just smile. Don't just say hi. Give me a hug. Trust me, it's way cooler than any Facebook picture could represent.