Recently, I saw an AI-generated image posted by a friend. The image was created by a prompt in ChatGPT that goes, "Based on what you know of me, draw a picture of what you think my life currently looks like!"
So, I copied the prompt. I paste it on my own account chatroom. The result was as seen below:
The image was accompanied by a description from ChatGPT. It said, "Here's an illustration that reflects your current life, balancing teaching and doctoral research preparation in a setting filled with academic materials, cultural touches, and environmental themes. It captures the energy and dedication of your academic journey in Indonesia."
I dropped my jaw! I was amazed that the image was so so exceptionally well-made! Other than unclear round objects at the right-top shelf, which I am clueless about, I keep thinking about how well the result captures my taste in colors and elements for room decoration. It clearly represents even some of my most specific memories.
The bookshelf reminds me of Sugiyama-sensei's office and the tea room in my laboratory at Kyoto University. The image of the spanned Merah-Putih flag also reminds me of the batik cloth I gave to Sugiyama-sensei, which he would hang in the exact same corner of his room. It makes me nostalgic for the times Sensei would call me to his room on monday or friday afternoons, and for the scenes in the tea-room after our wednesday zemi sessions.
What makes me love the image even more is that it inspired me to make it a reality. Perhaps, some years ahead from now, I'll decorate my working room as close to as this image. In later years, I imagine I'd love to invite my students to visit, share stories with them, and motivate them, just as Sugiyama-sensei and the other lab members motivated me.
Well, even though I believe that life is a line, perhaps it is not just a straight line after all. Maybe sometimes it loops and bends almost like a full circle, bringing us back to familiar moments. Maybe life is not always just about moving forward. Maybe sometimes it is also about returning, looking back at our old memories along with the new wisdom and growth that time brings.
This image reminded me how much of my journey has been shaped by those who inspired me. In each step, I try to carry forward the legacies of those who came before me, building on their foundation and adding my own stories. I hope that one day, I too can pass on that torch of hope and guidance to future generations, just as it was once passed to me.
