Welcome to the Human Prototype blog, a space where the past and present converge to showcase the evolution of a life in progress. Inspired by my TEDx talk, "I am a Prototype," this blog is part of a broader journey of transformation through journaling, capturing the essence of living as a perpetual prototype. Each week, during 2024, I reviewed my archives from 2016, contrasting journal scans filled with drawings against the backdrop of my current experiences.

From Dubai Thrills to Welsh Hills


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Then: May 9-15, 2016

 
Another glorious week in Dubai: yoga at the beach before work (see picture), another show at the theatre, a day at a beach club with friends, and getting third place at my CrossFit gym's 1-year anniversary throwdown.
Fun fact: I chose my place to live because there was a CrossFit gym nearby. Yes, that’s how crazy CrossFit makes you. And I have absolutely no regrets about this decision as it gave me an instant community and lots of fun times!
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I see a note about a great call with Brian... but which Brian? Not entirely sure. I also remember burning my forearm, and it's surprising I still went ahead with a CrossFit competition despite the bad burn.
On Saturday, I started a course at the theatre called the Desert Monologues. We’ll probably see more of it in the coming weeks. Finally, noting a 150lbs back squat (68kg).
All in all, I’m grateful for the beautiful memories and the wonderful people on my path.

Now: May 6-12, 2024

 
This week started with a bank holiday and ended with a trip to Wales—a combo I highly recommend! I spent all of Monday on an illustration that the client hated. But I had a really good time working on it and didn’t mind their feedback.
This is a big development for me in managing myself. I think it's the result of last year’s numerous setbacks. I've learned to be more resilient and detach my worth from my work. Yay! I also received a new order for another illustration, which I’m very excited about. It’s for a wedding picture done in the style of an old TFL (Transport for London) poster.
How bizarre to receive two orders from two different clients from 2021 in the same week after three years—and both for an A3 poster? I can’t quite explain it and won’t try. One thing I can say is that it's given me an excuse to return to drawing, which has been great for my well-being. Maybe it’s a little nudge to honor these abilities and the joy that comes with creation.
 
I’ve been making good progress in rewatching "Suits," now on season 6, and learning a lot about lawyering. Who knows, this might become useful someday. Or not. Louis Litt and Donna are my favorite characters. Harvey Specter comes close, and I’m glad they added depth to his character with his sessions with his therapist. These episodes were actually insightful and therapeutic for viewers.
 
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It just shows how much influence these shows have on us. They can change my mood, thoughts, and actions. Food for thought for another time.
 
During the weekend, I rediscovered fruits thanks to my dear friend Gavin (although Elodie had an attempt at it for my birthday a few weeks earlier); he challenged me to add more fruits to my diet. So here we go—fruits are back in my life.
We had a fun time watching the Eurovision Song Contest (I was happy with the French performance) with our friend Simone while staying in a cozy cottage in Abergavenny. We spent the day browsing 11 charity shops, one of my favorite pastimes. The best part was sharing this experience with two friends who share the same joy of finding a unique piece of clothing at a good deal. That is the essence of friendship, isn’t it?
 
I spent a fair amount of time on YouTube, as I do, so you don’t have to. Have you heard of Bashar the extra-terrestrial? I discovered him this week and was intrigued. It's been quite informative. I'd love to hear your reaction if you check out his messages for the first time.
Here’s a description from their website:
Bashar is a physical E.T., a friend from the future who has spoken for the past 37 years through channel Darryl Anka. He has brought through a wave of new information that clearly explains in detail how the universe works and how each person creates the reality they experience. Over the years, thousands of individuals have had the opportunity to apply these principles and see that they really work to change their lives and create the reality that they desire.
 
You know what? I’ve noticed a shift in my life over the past few weeks. I started this blog feeling sorry for myself, saying that life in 2016 was so much better and full of activities. But recently, things have started to feel richer. I wonder if it’s because I’ve been journaling and documenting, or if it’s the energy of spring, or... it’s just a matter of perception.
 
Another big question this week: how do you prevent your white T-shirts from turning grey over time? I don’t have enough white clothes for a full load, so they get mixed with similar light colors and become grey, which makes me sad. Help!
 
No audio this week, so instead I asked chatGPT to make a picture that summarizes this blog:
Close enough?
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