By Min Zan
In The quiet hours of early morning, when the world still slumbers under the veil of night, a singular figure emerges, embracing the gentle rhythm of his own artistic curve line of life. At about 3:20 am, the soft glow of dawn filtering through the curtains gently wakes him from his dreams. An early riser by habit and a seeker of knowledge by choice, he greets each day with a sense of purpose that has been cultivated through years of experience.
As the old man rises from his bed, a lifetime of routines unfolds like a well-rehearsed symphony. It is a dance of familiarity, a choreography of intention that speaks to the unwavering rhythm of his existence. He moves through the early hours with a sense of determination, no longer confined by the constraints of age. For him, the passage of time is not a limitation, but a canvas waiting to be painted with the strokes of his endeavours.
At 4 am, after dedicating a serene interlude to his prayers, he makes his way to a corner of his world that has become a sanctuary of knowledge and connection. The hum of the Wi-Fi router fills the room, a modern-day incantation that summons the digital realm into his midst. With purposeful precision, he awakens his trusty desktop computer, a faithful companion that has witnessed the evolution of his life’s journey.
The screen flickers to life, revealing a mosaic of opportunities. Google Classrooms beckon, a virtual stage where his students’ projects await his discerning gaze. The passage of time has seen his role evolve from that of a traditional teacher to a digital mentor, guiding young minds through the intricacies of a rapidly changing world. He assesses their efforts with the eye of an artisan, acknowledging their achievements and offering gentle guidance for improvement. In those moments, his age becomes irrelevant, and his wisdom becomes a beacon guiding others through the labyrinth of learning.
The story of this old man’s life is intertwined with the evolution of technology, a relationship that has been nurtured through the sands of time. His connection with computers began in 2012, long after he had completed his formal computer courses in 2001. The path he trod was not paved with ease; financial constraints barred him from the ownership of a new or even a second-hand computer. Yet, his thirst for knowledge and the unrelenting desire to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world propelled him forward.
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic served as an inflexion point, reshaping the contours of his existence. His teaching metamorphosed into the virtual realm, and the duration of his daily computer interactions grew exponentially. Where once he used the digital canvas to craft essays, articles, and poems, now he moulded the minds of his students through the ether of online classes. The transformation was both profound and poignant, a testament to the malleability of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Yet, as the minutes unfurled into hours, the strain on his eyes became apparent. The relentless pursuit of knowledge and the embrace of technology had exacted their toll. The clarity of his vision began to waver, a reminder that even as he rode the crest of the digital wave, his physical being remained rooted in the inevitabilities of the ageing process.
In the annals of his life, each day is a brushstroke, adding depth and dimension to the canvas of his existence. He is an artist, not with a palette and easel, but with the tools of technology and the experiences of a life well-lived. The story of this old man is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a reminder that curiosity knows no boundaries and that the pursuit of knowledge is a journey that spans a lifetime.
As the sun ascends in the sky, casting its warm embrace upon the world, the old man’s gaze remains fixed on the digital realm before him. He is a modern-day sage, a living embodiment of the adage that age is but a number. His life is a testament to the beauty of adaptation, the elegance of embracing change, and the enduring power of the human will.
Moreover, he realized, that in the grand tapestry of modern existence, there exists an intricate and indispensable thread, woven by the fusion of technology and connectivity. At the dawn of the 21st century, the computer and the internet have emerged as not merely tools, but lifelines that shape the very essence of human experience. As we traverse this landscape of innovation and interconnectedness, we unearth the fundamental reasons why the symbiotic relationship between man and machine has become an essential cornerstone of contemporary life.
The advent of the computer and the internet has heralded a digital renaissance, bestowing upon humanity the ability to access, process, and disseminate information with unparalleled speed and efficiency. In a world where knowledge is power, these technological marvels have democratized learning, granting individuals from all walks of life the opportunity to expand their horizons and engage in lifelong education. From online courses and virtual libraries to interactive tutorials and informative videos, the digital realm offers a treasure trove of enlightenment, erasing the boundaries of time and space.
The virtual marketplace has evolved into a bustling global bazaar, with the computer and the internet serving as the very currency of trade. E-commerce platforms transcend geographical constraints, enabling consumers to explore a myriad of products and services, from the comfort of their homes. This borderless exchange fosters economic growth, empowers small businesses, and provides consumers with an unprecedented level of choice and convenience. Whether it’s a rare antiquity, a bespoke garment, or a technological gadget, the computer, and the internet stand as gateways to a world of endless possibilities.
In an age where human interactions transcend continental divides, social connectivity finds its zenith in the virtual realm. Social media platforms, communication apps, and online forums have redefined the notion of friendship and community, facilitating connections that span oceans and cultures. Through the lens of a computer screen, one can partake in celebrations, share stories, and forge bonds with individuals we may never meet in person. The internet has dismantled barriers and kindled conversations, reaffirming his shared humanity and enriching his understanding of diverse perspectives.
For many, the computer and the internet are not merely conduits of leisure, but integral tools of professional advancement. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work and digital collaboration have become emblematic of modern employment. Industries have pivoted, and traditional office spaces have been reimagined as digital hubs where teams converge across time zones. The computer serves as a desk, a conference room, and a gateway to innovation, empowering professionals to contribute meaningfully to their fields, regardless of physical location.
The digital age has woven a profound fabric of health and wellness, with the computer and the internet acting as catalysts for informed decision-making and self-care. Online health resources, fitness apps, and telemedicine services offer unprecedented access to medical information and support. Patients can consult experts, access medical records, and manage chronic conditions, ushering in an era of personalized healthcare that places individuals at the helm of their well-being.
In the grand symphony of existence, the computer and the internet emerge as harmonious notes, orchestrating the crescendo of progress and connectivity, he knows very well. Their indispensability extends beyond the confines of convenience, embedding themselves into the very fabric of our lives. From education and commerce to relationships and professional pursuits, this digital duet shapes his narratives and amplifies his potential. As one stands at the confluence of the tangible and the virtual, one must embrace the profound truth that in this era, the computer and the internet are not mere accessories, but navigational instruments guiding people through the uncharted waters of the 21st century.
In the soft twilight of life, where memories blend with aspirations, the old man stands at the crossroads of his digital journey. Time has etched its mark upon his visage, and the radiance of youth has dimmed, making way for deeper wisdom born of experience. With a heart laden with both nostalgia and anticipation, he contemplates bidding adieu to the realm of computer-mediated teaching, guided by the whispers of his waning power of vision.
For over a decade, his days – from 2012 to 2023 - have been punctuated by the gentle hum of the computer, a faithful companion that illuminated the path of knowledge for both him and his eager students. The screen served as a gateway to a world of ideas and insights, facilitating connections beyond geographical boundaries. Through its pixelated canvas, he mentored, guided, and shaped minds, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
Yet, as the sands of time trickle onward, a sombre realization has gently unfurled its wings – his power of vision, once sharp and unyielding, has begun to waver. The very instrument that has been his ally now presents a paradox – while it opens doors to boundless knowledge, it also bears a cost, a toll exacted on the delicate canvas of his eyes. The once-clear lines on the screen have started to blur, a reminder that every chapter, no matter how cherished, must inevitably find its conclusion.
In this juncture of transition, the old man’s resolve is unwavering, and his spirit is undaunted. He embraces change not with resignation, but with the quiet strength that comes from a life well-lived. As he contemplates the prospect of reducing his screen time, he reflects upon the myriad other avenues that await his exploration.
The world beyond the computer screen beckons with its own allure. He envisions afternoons spent immersed in the tactile pleasure of books, feeling the weight of each page between his fingers as words come to life in the theatre of his mind. The tranquillity of the natural world invites him to partake in leisurely strolls, where the melody of birdsong and the rustle of leaves become his companions. The canvas of his imagination, once complemented by digital hues, now yearns for the strokes of paint and the textures of traditional art forms.
In this new chapter, the old man’s wisdom takes centre stage. He knows that adaptation is not a sign of defeat, but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As he bids farewell to the digital classroom, he leaves behind a legacy of learning and a foundation for future generations to build upon. The echoes of his guidance will linger in the corridors of cyberspace, a testament to his dedication and his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.
With the computer gently dimming in his life’s theatre, the old man sets his sights on the horizon, where the sun still casts its warm embrace. He navigates this transition with grace, guided by the inner compass of his heart. As he embraces the art of reducing screen time, he embodies the essence of adaptation, demonstrating that the power of the human spirit remains undiminished, even as the eyes may falter.
At times, he finds it challenging to instruct students to use a computer until the age of 70 may not be suitable for someone like him and it could be regrettable. His ability to see clearly is becoming less distinct with each passing day. Nevertheless, with a heart full of gratitude and anticipation, he steps onto a new path, where each moment becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of his existence.
Reference: Based on my own experiences
