Week #4
Finally, I'm about to complete one month here in San Francisco. It feels surreal and not really at the same time. We humans have a weird tendency to habituate ourselves to new circumstances. Evolutionarily necessary for survival, it is what gets us used to the feeling of fabric on our skin and what helps us get over the death of a loved one. Being in a new country can feel normal after some time, and you can take it for granted, but practicing gratitude and taking some time out to appreciate the opportunity can ground you back to reality and make you aware of your privilege.
This week was my birthday; I turned 27 (yes, my back has started hurting). Nothing special, as I am in a completely new city and country, but my girlfriend did throw me a surprise party even though she wasn't here. She somehow got my new roommate's contact and arranged a cake. I was definitely not expecting this, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. We had some really delicious cake, though I do wish she was here with me to enjoy it as well, but such is life.
Later in the day, I went to Dolores Park for the first time, and it is in places like these, near nature and life, where you get the space and time to reflect on your journey. Dogs were running around, having the best time of their lives, people lying down on the grass, and musical instruments playing in the distance. Later, on my way back, I got some pizzas for my roommates, and we sat down, laughed, and had some delicious pizzas.
Oh, and I also reluctantly pushed myself to go to a dinner where I knew no one else other than one friend from class whom I met a few days ago, and I totally had the best time. Everyone there was so nice and welcoming, and I had some really interesting conversations about AI, interaction design, and consciousness.
All in all, it was a good, slow, and reflective week. Assignments galore!
