Dimensions

Looking at something, anything, provides a perspective. Step to the right or left a foot or two. Observe the ‘thing’ again; compare that with what you saw before. Anything seem different? Did you gain more information on the subject? Did it matter? Did it give you more things to think about that subject?

Whether a thing/object, or an idea/opinion, observing it again from a different perspective, aids in understanding it. It changes its value to you. It may change its function with you.

Space is a dimension in which things are placed. You and I are placed in that space as well. Dimension has characteristics – size, shape, interior environment (heat, cool, light, air quality, aromas, etc.), and maybe even an exterior environment.

Time is a dimension, too. Is this subject under observation in the past, the present or future? Is the timeline static or in motion? Is the motion fast or slow or halting?

Each dimension informs of different qualities about the subject. All the differences matter to help understand the subject better. Scientists do this consistently using common methodologies. Data collected are then studied to understand what has happened to the subject, or not. No change is as much a ‘finding’ as anything else.

Steady, constant testing and observing. In and out of dimensions of variable types and conditions. Most of us would be bored out of our minds. But to a scientist? This is beauty, sensation, vitality and excitement.

I live close to Fermilab in Batavia, Illinois. At lunchtime in Warrenville, I often observed staff eating at large round tables in local restaurants. Their conversations were a polyglot of languages, but their excitement was infectious. They shared what they were learning. They shared methods. They shared doubts about results and challenges faced for future testing and analysis. I couldn’t understand their languages, but I could see their concentration, sharing of successes and failures. Those are universal qualities of life. Like their languages, there are universal meanings.

Chess is a game of strategy. It constantly tests a three dimensionality of strategy and circumstance. Life is like chess, but more complicated. Life adds dimensions to the challenge that chess cannot.

Dimensions provide multiple variables acting and interacting, simultaneously or not, on components of interest. It is difficult to define the problem, let alone the desired outcomes, or at least, the expected outcomes.

These are the challenges as we ponder our existence on this planet. Do we want the planet to continue in existence? If so, what are we doing about it to make that outcome possible? Do we want peace to reign worldwide? If so, we must work toward that objective. Not alone. Together. With others who wish the same outcome.

Dimensions are challenging. However, they enrich our understanding of many things. Now is not the time for shortcuts to the future. Now is the time to pay attention and do the hard work. Only then will the good things happen. Only then will evil have a worthy opponent.

March 8, 2022