Variational Systems

Systems described by variational principles—where behavior optimizes some quantity (minimizes energy, maximizes efficiency). Variational Systems are the mathematics of optimization, of finding the best path, the optimal configuration. They're used in physics (least action), engineering (optimal design), economics (utility maximization). Variational Systems assume that systems "choose" optimal paths, that nature is efficient, that optimization is fundamental. Understanding Variational Systems is understanding a world where things tend toward extremes—not random, not deterministic, but optimal.

Example: "Light takes the path of least time—a variational principle. His route-planning algorithm used the same idea: find the optimal path, minimize cost. Variational Systems worked beautifully when optimization was the goal. But human behavior wasn't always optimal; sometimes people chose worse paths for reasons the model couldn't capture. The model worked; reality didn't always cooperate."

by Dumu The Void March 7, 2026

Variations on a cloud

One of the best songs made by miracle musical, which is a side project of tally hall.

It sounds like a mashup of “isle unto thyself” another song in Hawaii part 2, “murders” in the same album. With a part that is also literally just ruler of everything by tally hall.

Guy 1: hey dude look at that cloud with variations on it
miracle musical fan: VARIATIONS ON A CLOUD REFERENCE???

by Mintymondos June 21, 2025

Vacation

WOOOOOOOOW! THAT'S LIKE 3 IN A ROW! TED CRUZ HAS GONE ON VACATION FOR THE LAST 3 NATURAL DISASTERS! What was the last one?

Hym "I don't remember what the last natural disaster was but I remember that Ted Cruz went on fucking vacation. Jesus Christ!"

by Hym Iam July 9, 2025

Vacation Dart

A cigarette that you smoke on vacation.

Vacation darts don't count.

Being in Greece is the best time for a vacation dart.

I don't normally smoke, but this is a vacation dart.

Mom: you smoke?

Me: No, this is just a vacation dart.

by EfKalisto13 August 6, 2025

validation

The feeling of thirsting for approval, often when you outsource your self-worth to those around you, like parents or peers.

She kept chasing after likes on social media, seeking validation instead of trusting her own abilities.

by Emotional Cruiser September 21, 2025

Validation Vampire

Key traits of a validation vampire:
• Constant need for praise and attention
• Self-focused; conversations center on their needs
• Frequent complaining and victimhood
• Little emotional reciprocity
• Blames others for their problems
• Leaves others feeling drained

How they drain energy:

• People-pleasing as a way to earn validation
• Creating drama or crises to attract attention
• Relying on others for continuous emotional reassurance

She avoids spending too much time with him because he turns every interaction into an opportunity to feed his inner validation vampire.

by Chiefee42 November 8, 2025

pecker validation

Bolstering a man's ego by worshipping his cock.

If it wasn't for her pecker validation, I would have less than zero self esteem.

by WoodsWhoak March 3, 2010