Why does the universe go to all the bother of existing? Is the unified theory so compelling that it brings about its own existence? Or does it need a creator, and, if so, does he have any other effect on the universe. And who created him?

If we do discover the complete theory, we shall all be able to take part in the discussion of the question of why it is that we and the universe exist. If we find the answer to that, it would be the ultimate triumph of human reason – for then we would know the mind of God.

A Brief History of Time, Stephen Hawking

Definition: the process of extending a polytope in new dimensions to form a new figure.

Stephen Hawking wrote in A Brief History of Time that there are at least ten dimensions, if not more. So let’s think about that.

Dee could not find her sunglasses. She had been told that someone had been seen walking across the tarmac with them on. Dee did not believe that, but still they were gone. The tiny shop beside the airport had only local food, flip flops and reams of fabric. She bought a coconut juice but it leaked everywhere. Clouds were moving in. 

The plane turned nicely, swinging out from the airport shadow into the direct sunlight, and drove smoothly along the runway. There was a plane coming overhead. It was not going to land. She made the final turn and waited for the voice which barely acknowledged her.

She only needed half the runway and was already turning out across the lava rocks that turned into dirty sand and then the sea. She angled up into the sky, almost forgetting she had somewhere to go.

There’s too much to think about.

Or not enough.