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The counterintuitive idea that lots of oscillators may synchronize when a small number won't is illustrated with optical examples that range from atoms with different oscillation frequencies to laser beam combination.  The dynamics of coupled waves or oscillators in nonlinear optical media occurs in many different contexts from optical fibers to laser arrays.  We will discuss concepts and experiments that have shaped our understanding of light, clocks and modern standards of measurements, as well as the basis of life (breath and heartbeats).