From Santa to the NSF

When I wrote my letter to Santa this year, it was pretty clear. It took me only about 15 minutes thanks to the Macy's website and it included first a list of thank yous for my favorite gifts over the years (large stuffed seal, GI Joe action figures/ jeeps, and the giant Lego castle). This year, I explained that I really needed a MacBook Air. I explained that my work depends on my computer and I travel quite a bit and, you see, the heavy laptop is taking a toll.

He seemed to be sympathetic and I have received the laptop.

( I hope he also deemed worthy the kids in Syrian refugee camps who are freezing right now!! )

Now with the wrapping paper all put away and the tree down I am left with my laptop and this NSF (National Science Foundation) grant. Sitting here I'm struck with the difference between their requirements and Santa's.

The Santa letter I just wrote an mailed. Yes, I did it. Laugh all you want. I got my laptop. Now Macy's gives money to "Make A Wish" if you use their mailbox which is nice. Frankly, I did it to practice getting clear about what I want and why I want it.

Now the NSF, unlike Santa, has 76 pages of instructions. They also want a much deeper explaination of what you want, why you want it and how it will better humanity. They want theory... They want compelling, top notch, and world altering....they want brilliance.

The process is a good one because it helps clarify my thinking and ensure that my dissertation has as better shot of helping solve some of the world's problems..

But you can't blame me for yearning for Santa simplicity...