Feeling Sad about AI

A programmer expresses deep sadness about AI's impact on his identity and career, stemming not from AI's direct threat to his livelihood but from what he perceives as disrespect toward programming as a profession—being told his craft is now obsolete and a commodity. He reflects on how programming gave him purpose, identity, and respect, and acknowledges his late realization that many other professions have long faced similar devaluation. The author seeks to find hope by reminding himself and others that AI cannot diminish their love for coding or their genuine skills.