2007 review and 2008 preview

Reflecting on the year that passed, the 365 days that were granted and what was done with each day ... personally I achieved an intangible goal. The world of knowledge around us condition us to look (not necessarily see) hear (not necessarily listen) at many things in a short span of time. To be in control of the stimuli around, was my number one priority in the year that passed. I can say that I have become 10% better. Less clutter has created clarity and focus for me.

Professionally, I strived to experiment with different technologies directly affecting the product that I am working on. The most eminent was to improve consumability of the product by adding a customer perspective to any new product feature. The number of products loaded with features but unable to properly function the basic operation attest to loss of feedback during the product development and design cycle. If Agile methodology achieves the theory that it is based on --LEAN-- we may see a boost in hours spent on creating rather than maintaining. In short it will create a happier (less disgruntled by having to debug problems that should have been detected) work force and less stressful work environment.

Artistically, I continued dancing. It was an honor to be able to learn from the talented artists this city contains for yet another year.

In the coming year, as a system we will continue to make mistakes. The world around us will continue to suffer from another year of lack of respect and tolerance for differences. The only hope for us, global village dwellers, is project green. Being conscious of the environment and nature can provide all a neutral platform to make peace amongst us and with the planet.

Wishing you all a GREAT 2008!

Another free trip around the sun is complete!

2007!

It finally arrived ... with neither a warning nor a delay ... as always on time. So, we have to start getting used to starting our letters and signing our checks with 2007 dates ... that's a challenge. Other than that ... hmmm ... I don't know ... are we supposed to feel any different ... I mean other than the fact that we are now officially one year older ... which could be both good and bad :)

2006!

We are almost a week into 2006 and 2005 is beginning to feel and sound like so yesterday! I certainly don't think 2005 was a good year. There was too much death and destruction: massive earthquakes in Asia, mud slides in America, suicide bombers in Europe and Middle East.
May 2006 be a year of more harmony and peace among humans and between humans and nature.

JAM'ing for Hope 2005

Walking around the streets we were looking for wanderers, little did we know how much we are about to learn from our quest to help and feed the homeless this Christmas Eve.
I was overwhelmed with emotion by their honesty and openness. Their faces brightened and their eyes gleamed when we offered them food and blanket. Some quickly pointed to us other homeless in the vicinity, some refused to take food or blanket because they have already received it from other volunteers; some asked for hugs!
It seems to me that "opportunities" for better life is excluding some who are unable to cope with the complex social systems, from having a life at all!

It's the season

It's the season of eggnog. Seriously, why is eggnog so popular around Xmas?
Have you noticed the look on people's faces these days? Most of them have this stern, serious look on their face. Pay attention next time you are on the bus, on train or somewhere crowded. The carefree expression I find to be on kids' faces. Why is that? It's the season of being merry after all. What's the point of all the festivities if we are not enjoying it? And if we are then let it reflect on our face ... spread the good energy ... smile!