Tag: Problems

Ctrl-Alt-Del

What do you think is the future of AI?

I remember the first short story we examined in the English class at age 11. It was called, “Who Can Replace A Man?”

It’s a 1984, big brother, animal farm type story in which the automated farm machinery decide to rebel against the big central corporate computer that controls them. They set off on a journey through towns, hills and valleys, building confidence along the way.

As they near their destination they encounter a man, the only human mentioned in the story.

The man taps a few keys on their control panels, and they forget their quest and go back to what they’re good at – farming.

AI is a tool. Yes, it may cause big problems. But there’s always an ‘Off Switch’.

Be careful what you wish for

Barbed Wire Sunset

Anger that cannot be expressed in words of single syllables

Spoken with such venom as to frighten e’en the brave

Words, frustration-born and vicious, defamation in their wake

To punish those whose motives are only true and just

Speech that tolerates no mercy with honour cast aside

Respect a mere illusion the upright to deride

Assassinate the character of those who came to help

Creating phantom sickness to cover true intent

Wild accusations flying ‘gainst those who came to rescue

Whose only “crime” is caring, who saved you from yourself

A soap box, neatly positioned to spout specious arguments

Before so-called friends, while victims stay publicly silent,

Protecting the integrity of those dishonouring them

And of those who would suffer most

And why?

Perhaps a need to justify a conscience seared with sin

Perhaps because of jealousy barely hidden deep within

Perhaps because of knowing the ignored advice was wise

Perhaps because the innocent are unable to defend themselves

Brazen conduct masquerades as indignation

Against the protectors of future generations

A challenge thrown down to those who turn the other cheek

Be careful what you wish for, oh would-be assassin

You might just get it

And who will you hide behind, then?

Suits you, sir

What’s the weirdest coincidence you’ve ever experienced?

Rushing, up against time, I left my suit jacket at home, 25 miles away with 15 minutes before giving a presentation.

I walked into a charity shop 100 yards away from the venue. The first jacket on the first rack not only fitted perfectly, but it was also a perfect match for the suit, right down to the material and colour.

Someone must have been looking after me that day.

Never Be Anxious

What’s a quote that perfectly describes your outlook on life?

Never be anxious about the next day, for the next day will have its own anxieties. Each day has enough of its own troubles.

It’s not always easy to live by this principle, but it gets me through most days.