Chapter 54 Like-minded
Gary's free clinic was housed in a dilapidated three-story building. Elbert, having just delivered the medical equipment, stood silently inside.
Gary sat on the worn-out sofa, clutching a half-empty bottle of whiskey, his face flushed and slightly intoxicated. This weathered old man had a remarkable story — not only was he Elbert's savior, but he was also the person Elbert truly admired.
Gary was a man of great compassion, indifferent to worldly concerns.
"Gary, I can't fathom how you manage to stay so composed," Elbert suddenly inquired.
Gary half-opened one eye and glanced over. "Elbert, did you encounter trouble?"
Elbert gave a faint smile. "Just feeling a bit perplexed."
"Life is filled with human connections and intricate social dynamics; it's the most challenging to rationalize. When you start trying to rationalize everything, life loses its charm. You're overthinking and boxing yourself in. I'm old and feeble, so naturally, my demeanor is steady. But you're young; you should be bold and daring. Once you unleash that fire within you, you'll feel much better."
"I lack the courage." Elbert shook his head slightly.
"You lack courage?" Gary chuckled heartily and took a swig of whiskey. "In the past three years, despite enduring excruciating pain, you worked three jobs at a restaurant and still returned home with a smile to care for your children. Others may not comprehend you, but I understand you the best. Deep down, you possess a fierce determination."
Gary's casual words left Elbert stunned. Indeed, he had faced despair before. During his struggles, he saw no light at the end of the tunnel. What kept him going? Elbert already held the answer within his heart — it was that resilience, that unwavering resolve to push forward no matter what. If he became too soft-hearted and forgot that tenacity, he would be worse off than before.
"I'm not oblivious, Elbert. I can see you've been doing well recently. But..." Gary reclined and used his foot to sweep away the peanut shells on the rickety table, revealing a portrait sketch.
"Here's another piece of advice. Be ruthless when necessary, yet retreat when needed. Knowing when to advance and when to step back is the hallmark of a true individual. Some troubles, once entangled with, will drag you into deep waters and fires, making it impossible to break free."
Elbert glanced at the portrait on the table, recognizing the young face as his own. "This..." Elbert expressed his confusion.
"It's you, you scoundrel. The young man being hunted by the military everywhere?" Gary teased.
Elbert scratched his head helplessly. "I'm off to sleep. If there's nothing else, leave."
Knowing Gary's nature well, Elbert said no more as he watched him drift off to sleep and quietly left. Just as he reached the door, he heard Gary's voice from a distance.
"Right or wrong is judged by the heart. Every individual has distinct inner cultivation, experiences, and perspectives. Many people jump to conclusions based on appearances alone. Remember, you can combat malevolent individuals but never act against your conscience."
"Understood, Gary."
Outside Skyrise Tower in the CBD, Elbert leaned against a tree, appearing to gaze into the distance while actually processing data through his eyes.
The download rate of the Gemini APP was exceptionally swift. Within just 8 hours, it had surpassed 400 million downloads, maintaining high user engagement.
In a single day, it achieved what other platforms took five years to accomplish. However, this was only the beginning.
Thirty minutes ago, the Gemini APP introduced a new feature alongside its one-on-one chat: a group chat named 'Interests.' It resembled a forum-based group chat but with a highly innovative twist. Upon clicking the 'Interests' button, users were transported to a realm tailored to their preferences.
For fishing enthusiasts, the interface showcased a serene blue ocean teeming with fish. Photography enthusiasts were greeted with breathtaking landscapes and lifelike figures. With over 3,000 hobby categories, each accommodating unlimited users, the platform utilized precise algorithms to connect users with shared interests.
Each hobby segment was further subdivided into enthusiasts, professionals, and super-professional aficionados. Participants found kindred spirits who shared their passions.
Countless users instantly connected, engaging in lively conversations and feeling as though they had met kindred souls. While exchanging stories and experiences, they also shared photos and videos.
"This place is incredible. I casually clicked in and can't stop chatting."
"This group chat caters perfectly to violin enthusiasts like me."
"My group is fantastic — all Transformers collectors. I've searched for years and finally found them."
"This app continues to surprise me. No other forum has gathered such genuine racing enthusiasts."
"My old travel and adventure companions have found their home here."
"I met a gaming streamer in this group."
"This app is remarkable and precise. It pinpointed my familiar territory, and I instantly felt at home."
"If this app continues to evolve, it will outshine all forums. It's a daunting thought."
In the app's comments section, talents emerged. Some users recognized the ambitious potential of the 'Interests' feature. As they noted, if the section continued to expand, it aimed to supplant various forums. Since the advent of the internet, nearly every field had its dedicated forum, with some boasting substantial user bases.
However, the challenge these forums faced was accurately attracting and retaining users — a challenge that the Gemini APP circumvented. Leveraging Robert's powerful computing capabilities, the platform swiftly discerned users' preferences and performed precise categorization. This programming prowess set a new industry standard.
Everyone harbored passions they wished to share with like-minded individuals. This innate desire lay at the heart of human nature and forms the essence of the 'Interests' development.
Once all hobby segments within 'Interests' stabilized, the Gemini APP would wield unparalleled influence across various domains.
From a business standpoint, consolidating target customers within a specific forum rendered promotional resources highly coveted. When an automotive group launched a new off-road model, they naturally turned to the 'Interests' off-road section for promotion. Similarly, a phone manufacturer debuting a new model would target the 'Interests' phone enthusiast section for promotion, and so forth.
By aggregating customer resources from diverse fields and controlling authoritative viewpoints across various domains, Elbert's ultimate objective of creating 'Interests' would be realized.
"I'll continue the updates tonight. Don't wait up, get some rest, and read it in the morning," Elbert remarked.
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