When Random Numbers Carry Meaning
Have you ever wondered about the stories behind usernames? Those seemingly random combinations of letters and numbers that represent us in the digital world often have fascinating origins. Today, I’d like to share mine.
The “3427” in my handle “said3427” might look like a randomly generated number, but it actually represents “DIAS” (Spanish for “days”) spelled backward using old mobile phone keypads—you know, the ones where you had to press 2 three times to get the letter “C”. If you map it out: 3=D, 4=I, 2=A, 7=S. Combined with my name backward, it creates “said3427”.
Why go through all this trouble? I’ve always been drawn to puzzles, encryption, and challenges. There’s something satisfying about creating meaning that isn’t immediately obvious to everyone.
- Is it a random number that one in your email? I’ve been asked, so I smile and explain its origin.
The Quest for Digital Consistency
This unusual username choice was also practical. I was tired of having different handles across platforms and forgetting which was which. I wanted one consistent digital identity that would be uniquely mine across all social networks.
This combination has worked well (except for Instagram, where unfortunately a Russian user claimed it first). Even after discovering sites like xkcd and other clever username conventions, I stuck with said3427 despite its complexity—it had become part of my identity.
Context Is Everything
What appears random often makes perfect sense when you understand the context. This philosophy extends beyond my username—it’s been a constant in my life journey.
I was born in Ometepec, Guerrero, Mexico—one of the country’s poorest and most violent states. Despite this challenging environment, my childhood was happy and formative. I learned invaluable skills:
- How to thrive under adversity
- Self-directed learning
- Standing firm in my convictions
Expanding Circles
My search for better educational opportunities led me through increasingly wider circles:
- Tec de Monterrey in Morelia (on scholarship) — my first experience living in a city, offering new perspectives and connections
- Mexico City — where I spent 10 transformative years at university, research groups and startups
- Imperial College London — where I pursued my PhD, another dramatic shift in environment
At each stage, I’ve met remarkable people who have shaped my thinking. Now I find myself at a pivotal moment—attempting to integrate these diverse experiences and social circles while wondering what new “random” elements will become part of my story next.
Why Start With a Number?
So why begin a blog with just a number? Because even something as seemingly arbitrary as 3427 carries meaning and function for me. This blog will follow that same principle—a collection of seemingly random thoughts, experiences, and research findings that, within context, form a cohesive narrative of my journey.
If you’re reading this and we’ve met, I’d be curious to know which “circle” of my life our paths crossed in. Feel free to mention it in the comments.
Taking the Leap
I hesitated about starting this blog until Paco Valencia, a very good friend from Morelia, the founder of ProthesIA, offered this advice that pushed me forward:
“If I had to tell you one thing and remind you of it every day, it would be this: Being so intelligent is a double-edged sword. Learn to think less and have more courage to act.”
So here I am, acting.
— Said
What seemingly random elements in your life turned out to have deeper meaning? Share your thoughts in the comments below.