No decision yet-the mathematical probability of winning in the waiting game of life.
The date is August 5th, 2021. Andre De Grasse has already won a gold medal for Canada and has run what the Toronto Star records as “the race of his life”. He had run many races before and always received a medal, but what were the odds of him winning this time? Were they stacked higher against him than ever before, or were they in his favour? Was he motivated by the mounting pressure to prove he was the greatest in his race or did he revel in the comfort of knowing that whatever happened he would still perhaps win something?
Statistical probability is more than just a mathematical lens that guides our decisions and judgement. It gives some kind of proof that, barring all unforeseen factors, things will happen just as is determined. The numbers never lie. There is no need for wishful thinking, hoping or praying for that matter. This way of conceptualizing life has guided the realities of many people, yet some oppose its philosophy. To the sentimentalists among us, it may seem wrong, like an illogical way to frame our thinking and to predict the future. To the environmentalists, it disregards the impact our own actions have on shaping the future world we live in. To the socialists, it creates a mould for us to remain within the status quo and to not push the limits of our structured societies. To the linguists, it negates the meaning and context of true cultural change and to the artists, it emasculates life and robs it of purpose and meaning.
Yet still, awaiting a decision for entry into a master’s program in Statistics with all the odds stacked against you, can be nerve-racking. I’ve always nicknamed myself ‘Crystal Ball’ because of my precocious nature as a young child, but somehow life has dulled and scoffed my self-determined confidence. The clarity and precision with which I once saw the world has become lost in the survival mode of keeping up with the Kardashians and juggling the near astronomical costs of living in the city. Then came the self-doubt and line of questioning from my family and friends. Was it wrong to want to have a specialization so late in my career? Was I not happy with what I had already achieved? What else did I need to make me feel satisfied with life? Wasn’t it time to start listening to my biological clock and settle down to have a family? After all, that’s maths too, right? Just add a few kids and divide your time between your day job, routine activities and motherly duties and chores.
With so many questions, I consoled myself with the fact that at least I had a starting point-albeit a negative one. Now I could systematically pick out what this new stage of my life would mean and what I was prepared to sacrifice to realize my dreams. Then I could work my way up from ground zero one step at a time. There has yet not been a decision on my file but maybe, this time, the chips will fall in my favour.
“Write the vision and make it plain, that he may run that reads it”. Hab. 2:2
Setting sail on a new course in life can be scary. Interpreting nautical miles and knots can seem never-ending and senseless at times. Fearing the raging seas and the boisterous winds can often blind one’s vision for a bright future of peace and tranquility. Take heart- the sea is a mother-a nurturer, a care-giver, and a supporter of all your dreams and ambitions. It is good place to contemplate and envision the future you have always dreamed of having.
Closer than I’ve ever been before.
Just when you thought you were free from the effects of grumpiness and irascibility.
MENTAL HEALTH IN MATHS
Writing is somewhat cathartic and blogging may be even more so knowing that I have a readership. Navigating the negative emotions of interacting in a new environment can often help one to learn the limits of their ability to adapt, grow and take responsibility for their actions. In my case, learning how to be kind to myself while warding off the negativity that often accompanies the study of numbers.
COMING SOON
A look into what true citizenship means as a leader in mathematics.
Merry Christmas!
Ending the year strong-my singular goal in what is to be my best year yet.
Mathematical Inspirations 