Critical Piece of Shit

Year-end traditions

2011-12-15T15:30:00.002+08:00

My exams are finally over, while waiting frantically for the results, my mind is a blank on what to do next.

The logical sequence would be to brush up my resume, and begin my job hunt. However, I have been procrastinating, as usual.

Brought out my Japanese language books from under a heap of rubbish and began blowing the dust on the covers. While it is meant as a revision (5 years late), I realised I do not have the same level of concentration 5 years ago.

My mind wanders, just like the many times that I lay in bed at night, wide awake after a run.

I totally forgotten my annual tradition of writing Christmas cards to my dear friends (hand-written, and not e-cards) . Better tie a string around my finger.

Maybe I need to bring along a notebook everywhere I go, and jot down things which are important. Oh yeah, I need to remind myself to bring along the notebook too, better tie another string for that.

The list goes on. Before all my 10 fingers are used up, I would like to plant some of my thoughts in cyberspace.

With New Year's Day around the corner, I am going to write down my resolutions. While this tradition has been going on forever, fulfilling them had been getting tougher over the years.

I need to get more realistic. Thus, 2012's resolution would be more down-to-earth, hopefully I would fulfill them before apocalypse.

1) Include a vegetarian meal once a day - Inspire by one of my campmates, who has gone vegetarian, I feel the need to curb my carnivorous habits. However, I cannot do it all at once. Thus, the above statement would help me along. Hopefully it improves my health too.

2) Avoid buffets and overeating - If I were to die from one of the seven sins, it would definitely be gluttony. With my metabolism getting slower, I need to have smaller meals and not stuff myself. I hope I can do that.

3) Avoid foods that make my stomach feel uncomfortable - This is a long list, but just to give you an idea, they are: Chilli, coconut milk, deep-fried, milk, cheese, curry, nasi lemak, chicken rice...etc
This is up there for the obvious reasons. However, in Asian cuisines, they are hard to avoid, hopefully I can enjoy my food, without them.

I feel that this three resolutions are ones that I may have a high chance of fulfilling. You may wonder why are they all related to food and eating habits.

Well, as the saying goes, 'You are what you eat'. As I get older, it's about time to take it easy on my body and not work my organs too hard. I have seen how difficult it is to deal with diseases and illness, and how taxing it is for family members to provide care and support. I do not wish to be a burden.

Whatever may your resolutions be, I hope you too, can fulfill them!

With about two weeks left in 2011, I would like to wish all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Revelations about my mom

2011-12-02T23:39:00.003+08:00

I hate to say this but I don't really understand my mom, after knowing her for 31 years.

The fact that I did not stay with her for half my life may have contributed to my ignorance, but somehow it feels like an excuse.

Some of my posting about my mom still stands; she is a lazy, irresponsible, loud-mouthed, cynical and greedy person.

Although I am the oldest of her sons, I seem to be the least important; she only get my name right after calling my two brothers' names. She's also clueless to what I like to eat.

However, as my time spent with her increases this year, I have been constantly surprised by what she is capable of.

When my aunt was spending her remaining months with us, my mom took charge of nursing and caring for her,although she was complaining every bit of the way.

When my aunt passed away, my mom became the chief coordinator of the funeral, handling most of the administrative stuff; still complaining, of course.

These actions were a surprise coming from a person who refuse to work for years, when she is only still 50.

From the actions, I can sense her love for her youngest sibling, which propel her to take on huge responsibilities that she normally shirks from.

While I always felt that my sense of responsibility was never inherited from her, that difficult period saw her rose to the occasion and prove my hypothesis wrong. ( The cynical part is definitely from her, so too is the weak stomach and greedy appetite)

If life was like a comic book, she would be a reluctant heroine, only revealing her true self during times of crisis. (Although her portly figure would make her less than heroine material).

Recently, I picked up a Chinese-language book discarded by someone, and thought of reading myself. However, I never really had the time for it, so I pass it to my mom, as she is Chinese-educated.

She managed to surprise me again.

She never gone passed Secondary 2 when she was younger, and she is never the studying type. However the speed that she 'devoured' the book puts me and any other students younger than me to shame.

She concentrated on that book and almost finished it the next day, and I can tell she really enjoyed reading, maybe due to her interest in Chinese romance stories from last time.

I think no one in the family is so keen about reading than her. I find it a struggle to read a book in a week.

Talk about 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'. I wondered if she never got married and had me at a young age, maybe life would be so different for her.

(She's still unable to get my name right the first time, but she's trying) :-)

4 months and counting...

2011-10-20T20:29:00.004+08:00

It's been that long since my last post. Times flies, whether you are having fun or not.

Every school term presents new challenges, even though I am in my last semester of a draggy degree, new things still shock me once in a while.

This term was supposed to be the finishing line, but the stress of having to deal with two early and intensive modules totally drained me. I missed out one of the modules. Not only lessons, I also missed its deadlines. Without much choice, I had to withdraw from it. Therefore, I am stuck in school for another semester.

I guess everyday we face different challenges in life. The past few months had me experience all sorts of situations and dilemmas. I am predicting more to come at me.

Almost forgot there are many people who still read this, seldom updated blog. One day I bumped into Ms S, during a transit flight. She asked me, 'How are you?' For a moment there, I thought she was referring to me after my breakup with my ex-gf (she was her batchgirl). Senile me spaced out for a while...until I realised she reads my blog and was referring to my current break-up...

Still looking for another tenant to fill up the house, but I guess I am too choosy; must be girl, must be crew. Not many girls want a guy roommate, and not many of them like Sengkang...If I get another roommate, I have one less room to clean....hehe...

I got rid of Monday blues, because my favourite anime plays every Monday. Gintama is lotsa of nonsense and laughter, what everyone needs once a while. Not many know about this gem though.

Currently looking for another car after I crashed the last one. My friend tells me I shop like a girl; indecisive, distracted by many choices, cannot narrow down my choices. I beg to differ. I behave like an auntie in a market; always on the look out for cheap and value for money offer, yet want to buy something I like.

My life is in sync with my football team, Arsenal. Many important people left and new people have not established the same type of intimacy. Disastrous events happen one after another. Low confidence. Fortunately, both me and the team have sunken to the bottom, and are now on the way up. I hope it stays that way.

Exam period is in a month's time, I hope I do not have to wait for that long to be free to post again. I can nearly see cobwebs on my screen when I sign in to Blogger.

Looking forward beyond the exams, I would like to do many things, which had been on hold.
Firstly, the house warming. Everyone has been asking about it and I have to do a 'grand opening'. December seems like a good time.

Secondly, since I would be single and free, I would be able to train up on my running and fitness test. Need to join a gym to give myself additional reasons to train more than once a week.

Lastly, spending more time with my granny and my family. Since I lost the car, I have been constrained by work and travelling time. When I get the car, I would then be able to do just that. Hopefully I can take my late auntie's place as the pillar of my dysfunctional family.

Keeping my fingers-crossed, as things rarely go my way. Did anyone know I changed my name? My friend told me to 'publicize' it, as the more people call me by the new name, the better for me. Don't know whether true or not, but it's worth a try....

許檍綜

Recently, I met a colleague who told me he won the first prize in Toto before. That is a piece of news that made my day, suddenly I am a believer again.

There you go, my life summed up; studies, work, housework, anime, family, workout, football, Toto, car, partying and drinks. I wonder what is missing...guess I will figure out soon enough.

In Arsene I Trust

2011-09-01T05:24:00.003+08:00

Something about my favourite manager Arsene Wenger of Arsenal Football Club.

Some may call him stingy, stubborn and in denial. Many hold him responsible for the decline of the club. Others want him to step down.

I have been a follower of Arsenal since Wenger started with the club. I saw how he transformed Arsenal Football Club, from good to great.

He has total control of many aspects of the club, because the board trusts him. Rightfully so.

Even as people call for his head, in the wake of the 8-2 thrashing by Man United, there are tons of reasons why the club needs him more than he needs the club. Fans should be grateful that he did not leave us for Madrid, the German and Japan national team, a few seasons back.

Below are contributions by him which I felt was vital to the progress of the club.

1) Being an economist, he championed the move for the Ashburton Grove project. The old Highbury could only accomodate about 38,000 fans, while the current stadium holds 60,000. Although it got the club into debt, it made sense that we were losing revenue by staying at Highbury. Anyway most of the debt had been repaid through planned repayments.

2) He brought in new training and nutrition techniques which helped aging players, like Tony Adams, improve and extend their playing careers. With the blend of English and foreign players, he got the best out of the team and secure silverware for subsequent seasons. Arsenal also qualified for Champions League every season for the past decade.

3) Achieving 'Invincibles', 49 games unbeaten, was no mean feat.

4) Using his economics knowledge, acumen for talent spotting and his faith in youth, Wenger brought a string of players who were mediocre and transformed them into legends. Nicholas Anelka was bought from PSG for $500,000 and sold for $23 million, Cesc earned us even more money. Dennis Bergkamp, Kanu, Vieira, Henry and Anelka, were having trouble fulfilling their potential at previous clubs. Wenger placed his faith in them and they all left as legends.

There are of course many more reasons but these few are proof that he is a great manager for Arsenal.

A few years ago, I was hooked to the football management game, Championship Manager.

While playing it, I realised that my transfer policy and principles in managing were very similar to Wenger.

I love bargain hunting, and look for players who were inexpensive, young and had great potential. Like Wenger, I do not keep players over 30 years old, as they had diminishing returns.

If I could, I would nurture young players and sell them when they became sought after, bagging a huge profit.

I would never field players who are not 100% fit, unless I was left without a choice.

I also didn't like to buy from the Premiership, because valuation of players were inflated.
My highest paid player earned about 90K-a-week (4 years ago).

Of course, my experiences in a fantasy game could not compare to Wenger's experience in the real game. However, I do understand his thought process, and his decisions that he made.

It is unfortunate that his players do not reward his faith with their loyalty. The high turnover in the squad meant that there was little opportunity for continuity. The manager's plan had to be revised constantly, due to the departures of core players. However, I believe that someone would always step up.

If he does go one day, it would be Arsenal's loss. I would probably follow him closely, in his next career choice.

True Arsenal fans would not give up hope on Wenger and his choices; they should understand him better than fair-weather fans.

To all Arsenal fans, stick to this motto: In Arsene We Trust

Let's look forward to an exciting season ahead!

Topsy-Turvy June part 2

2011-07-30T22:24:00.005+08:00

During the last week of June, my youngest aunt, passed away at the age of 45.

She had been struggling with cancer and moved into my grandma's place for the last month.

Even though we knew that she was going to die, we were devastated by her death.

She was an objective, positive, friendly, wise beyond her years woman, who was always there whenever her family or friends needed her. Her advice and words gave us encouragement and hope.

She was one of pillars holding our family up. Despite her age, her elder siblings and even her mom (my grandma) would seek help and confide in her.

During her final month with us, I saw how the disease had overwhelmed her.

The once cheery and loud woman, became quiet, depressed and scared of her impending death. For the first time, I saw the once strong woman breakdown and cried.

She struggled with breathing, eating and barely slept. She needed a portable oxygen tank by her side and was in a wheelchair most of the time.

Her memories, both short and long-term started to fail her. She got even skinnier, resembling a skeleton.

The day before her death, I had told her that I am buying a car next week, and that I could ferry her around then. Secretly, I was urging her to keep on living.

The next day, I left in the morning for my flight. When I came back in the late afternoon, I switched on my phone and received a message from my cousin, that my aunt passed away.

I rushed to the mortuary at Singapore General Hospital to see her briefly, before the undertaker sent her to the parlour. My grandmother broke down and cried profusely.

A few hours later, the body was sent to the actual funeral site. I looked at her and thought to myself, "So this is death?"
No words of advice came out from her closely-shut mouth, as she laid there peacefully.
The auntie who I was just talking to a day ago, is now stone-cold, sleeping eternally.

I couldn't come to terms with her death. I still can't.

In the middle of the night, tears flowed as I tossed in my bed. I texted my mom, like a little child, asking her,"Why does she have to die? Why does someone so dear to us left so soon? She's our pillar and she always supported, helped and loved us. It's not fair! Why?"

My usual aloof, lazy and ignorant mom, surprised me, by replying: "It's a phase we all will go through. We are like a small boat, sailing the stormy sea and choppy waves, against the strong wind. Your aunt just docked at the harbour sooner than us. It's also a kind of release for her (cancer). I told your aunt before that we had our good times, our fun and our happy times. Life shouldn't be full of regrets.
You don't have to be sad, cause she knows that you're a good kid. Be a happy person and let her pass on in peace."

It's not the first time, I had a death in the family; however it is the first time that someone so close and dear to me, is gone.

From her death, I realised that it doesn't matter how good or bad one had been. Everything comes to nothingness once you pass on. People forget things easily. Life goes on.
The once popular aunt, with plenty of acquaintance and friends, had a very quiet funeral. Many of those 'friends' did not show up.

I am glad she was not alive to find out that her generosity went to waste.

June was a terrible month for me, but I pulled through with the help of my circle of very good friends. They were there physically and emotionally for me through these ordeals, and I thank them from the bottom of my hearts. In a way, I am more fortunate than my aunt.

Many have asked me about how do I feel, and I always give the same answer, "Empty".

I am drained and the heavy lid in my heart makes it hard to fill up on happy emotions.

Hopefully, Time would really be able to heal me.

____________________________________________________________

P.S. I do apologise for my poor writing. I really cannot focus when I write about my aunt. My heart feels heavy and tears still continue to well up in my eyes.

Topsy Turvy June- part 1

2011-07-08T14:11:00.003+08:00

I have been wanting to write sooner, after my exams in May.

Unfortunately, June was a life-changing month for me. Numerous things happened, keeping me busy and I am still trying to catch my breath.

Firstly, some of you may have gotten the news already, I am going through divorce with my wife.

Nothing dramatic here, no violent arguments, no private eye catching me red-handed, no deaths, nothing cynical and no bitterness. Just a quiet and smooth affair.

I did see it coming, but I naively thought that things would work out if we started staying together.
Ironically, we broke up just a few days before I got the keys to our flat.

We decided that both of us weren't compatible with each other; which made it a struggle everyday.

Differing opinions, priorities and mindset. Communication breakdown, distorted perceptions and unrealistic expectations. Fundamental issues really.

I did not ask to a 2nd chance because I know things will be the same even after we patched things up. I couldn't bear watching our relationship being disintegrated like this.

I truly understand the meaning of 'It takes 2 to clap'.

Frankly speaking, I felt a sense of relief, a weight off my shoulder. At the same time, I am going through a sense of loneliness and emptiness that I never felt before, even I broke up with my ex-girlfriend. As time goes by, the dispair becomes heavier and I feel even more disconnected from the world.

Even with all the condolences, the constant checking in from very close friends (which I am very grateful of), I feel my soul drifting away from my body....

I moved into our matrimonial home, because I felt it was a waste to leave it empty, after all the fighting, haggling, searching and paying.

It is my 'cave', a place where I can run away. It forces me to grow up quickly and face the world alone.

Retail therapy has been keeping me occupied; buying household items, furniture, appliances. Moving house, cleaning, moping, vacuuming, washing, all took my time away from pondering about the past.

I am just waiting for my school term to start, so that I would have no time at all to mope and be depressed.

But who am I kidding?

All that being said, there is no one better to break me than my wife. I am quite fortunate really.

Others would want alimony, demand money and break my heart even more. Not her.

Now that I have also failed where my parents have failed, it is safe to stay away from marriage and not underestimate it at all.

Consider it a hiatus, a sabbatical, or long leave.

The "Gone fishing!" sign would hang on my heart for a long time...

A new era begins...

2011-05-09T16:19:00.002+08:00

The last few weeks, the scent of democracy was everywhere.

Not a day goes by without a notification on Facebook that is about the political event. Party news on blogs, Twitter and other online portal flooded our senses. You probably seen most of the candidates, not in person, but on video streaming online.

The Internet, responsible for triggering off the revolution in North Africa, finally played a part in Singapore's election. It levels the playing ground, uncovers facts not 'picked' up by the mainstream media, empowers the powerless.

The people gather in numbers for rallies, overwhelming traffic everywhere. Their votes dented the ruling party's victory. Not even the World Cup gathered so many fans, so many talking points, and so much support.

For the first time in many years, younger generations gathered for a political cause, even though they had been written off as 'uninterested' in politics.

They came together off and online, cheering and jeering, making biased criticisms and constructive critiques. This was a nation participating.

Previously I had lifted this phrase from my book, "The duty of a citizen in a democracy is to participate."

Now we can say that we are moving towards true democracy.

Change does not come suddenly, it inches bit by bit. Be patient, my fellow countrymen, for we have already taken our first step.

Firstly, I would like to thank the voters of Aljunied GRC in courageously standing up for their cause.
You have taught Singaporeans a valuable lesson, and made history.

When we achieved a true First-World Government, we would always look upon you as our inspiration and pioneer.

Secondly, I thank the brave and selfless men and women, who had nothing to gain but all to lose, yet in the face of great adversity, they stood up for the people. Even though you hardly know them, you sat down to hear their woes and the injustice they suffered.

Although it was much easier to walk away, I applaud you for staying on and fighting the odds.
Especially to Mr Chiam and Ms Seah. You taught us that age does not matter, whether you are 76, or 24. Sincerity and a sense of justice is all one needs in championing people's rights.

Lastly, I would like to congratulate the WP team in their triumph. 6 against 81 is hardly fair, and the tough work starts now. You are the people's choice and your duty is to serve them by keeping things in check. I hope that you would do us proud.

I would also like to thank all the opposition parties for participating. Even though you missed your chance, you have shown Singaporeans that it is okay to come out of their shell. I am sure that you would have plenty of potential candidates and volunteers knocking at your doors soon. Your contribution may have helped inspire our young generation to take the road less travelled, assuring politics of its pool of talents in the long run.

To close, I have a message to the people who are still skeptical. No democracy in the world has a parliament that only consists of politicians from one party. To engage in constant debate and discourse would lessen the probabilities of making awful decisions. The political world have evolved, and we have just began to.

I urged you to look beyond your social class, your material wealth and your vested interest. Hand-in-hand, we are Singapore.

Portfolio

2011-02-07T14:26:00.002+08:00

Anyone who have been reading or have read my blog must have notice the address, www.criticalpieceofshit.blogspot.com.

I have been using it since Friendster had a space to write your own blogs. As the years went back, I still feel that it is an apt title for my ramblings and grumblings.

Until today.

I was tasked with an assignment that required me to write to an editor of a magazine, trying to sell a story idea.

Part of it included a letter, which I had to 'sell' myself, with my real credentials (not that I have any published works). As I typed my blog's address, I thought to myself, what if I had to write to a real editor one day, in hope that he/she will use my story?

I stopped immediately and look at what I had just typed. 'www.criticalpieceofshit.blogspot.com'.

"This is not going to get me any work," I thought to myself. "even if I am the best writer, people won't take me seriously!"

For the first time, I actually thought about my livelihood as a potential writer. For the first time, I pondered about changing the apt title that I had been using since 2003.

It feels like you have just sent in a job application, only to realised that the photo on it was the one you took from your Halloween party.

What now?

I do not think that I would change the address or the title of this blog. Maybe I would need to start a blog with a bit more seriousness and professional feel to it.

Being an adult, you start to consider your lifelihood, your future, in everything you do. Even when blogging is supposed to be fun, you cannot blog about this and that.

Everytime you wake up, you think about money, or how to make money. This is normal, but when you live in this expensive country, you think about it even more.

I think when I move into my house later in the year, these thoughts would preoccupy me even more.

National Service encourages bigamy

2010-12-13T08:50:00.003+08:00

It's been three months since I blogged.

No, I was not hiding or running from the authorities.
No, I did not run into a dry spell (of ideas..not something else).
No, I am not dead (but dying, like everyone else).

I was just using my full potential on my studies; my exams ended just last month.

Now with the short term break, I have a little bit more time and brain juice to write.

Disclaimer - Before I go further, please be reminded that the contents are purely my ironic reflections of things around me. Entertainment if u will, and not a reflection of my conscience. Please do not get the wrong idea and feel offended after reading it.

___________________________________________________________________

I wish that I had the time to write this earlier. It came to me when I was back in camp during August.

Many people, especially women, ask this question: "Why can't men be faithful?"

This question is as old as time itself, many great thinkers have tried to decipher but unable to come up with a satisfactory answer.

Hey I am no Aristotle, but with my 10 years serving the nation, I think I may have found one possible answer, at least in the Singapore context.

Psychologists believe that a person behave in a way, due to his genes (nature) or his environment (nurture).

Many experiments have shown the theories are correct.

Thus, I concur that a man's environment shapes his attitudes and behaviour.

You may think that I am deviating, but I feel that it is important for me to bring up this concept, in order to make sense of what I am going to write later.

National Service, is a big part of Singaporean guy's life. Although it does not last for 2 or 2 1/2 years (depends on how lucky one is), most of us have to report back for duties annually, for at least a week. Guys call it 'reservist'.

National Service is a not only a duty of men in Singapore; it is also part of the law. If you miss it, or do not want to be part of it, you would be incarcerated, fine or subjected to some other punishments that would be hard to illustrate.

It promotes discipline through regimental duties. You cannot just run away from your responsibilities once they are given. Everything goes by the stick and the carrot. (btw I don't really like vegetables)

To describe it more aptly, it conditions men to behave more responsibly and speeds up their maturity.

Meals are provided free-of-charge, in a place called the 'cookhouse', something like a dining hall. In our context, when something is given free, it usually compromises taste and presentation. This had been demonstrated a few months ago by the food provided to the volunteers at the Youth Olympics.

However, if you decided not to eat the 3 meals that are catered for you daily, it is a breach of regulation. One may be fine or punished for skipping their meals.

On the other hand, every military camp has something called the 'canteen', where external vendors lease the place to sell cooked food. The quality of food resembles those of food centres and coffeeshop found in 'civilisation'. Usually they taste better than the food from the 'cookhouse'. The catch is, one has to pay out of their own pocket.

I would like to reiterate the title of this posting, 'National Service encourages bigamy'. It is not far-fetched and I would list my reasons.

Metaphorically speaking, the cookhouse is like the wife. One is bounded legally (due to army rules), and have to eat there due to obligation. If not, one can scan their ID card to show that they have 'eaten' there. She feels there is no need for pretense, as she is already your wife, thus, she seldom dress up (presentation of food). However, her love for you is visible by the big portions she dishes out.

During the first year of 'marriage', you appreciated your 'wife' for being there when you are hungry, and her large portions of love. Although the quality is not good, you won't voice it out, because this love comes at no cost. (food being free there).

This blind love is also facilitated by the fact that you are too busy, with so much activities packed during the first year of NS. Additionally, your superior (instructor or battalion orderly sergeant) watches you like a hawk, making sure you eat the food, while returning the utensils back after use.

After a while, you get promoted, your earning increases. There is more leeway for you to sleep in and more time for yourself. You pick on your wife's cooking. Suddenly, you find the grains of rice too coarse, too lumpy and too dry. The braised pork too salty and the fish too fishy. The soup too bland and the vegetables overcooked. You hardly finish the food, the large portion seemingly excessive and you feel victimised by this 'dumping'. In addition, returning the dishes is deemed a waste of time.

Your eyes start to wander, as daily you look for an alternative and an escape to this rigid and boring lifestyle. With more money, time and power, you feel that there is no need to endure this.

Ironically, next to your wife, stands the 'mistress' (canteen). This vibrant girl, who knows how to dress up (food displays and presentation) and gives you attention and cooks better quality and tastier food. She does not need you to clean up, "just leave it there," she said. She also gives you variety of dishes, not the same old week in, week out. You just have to pamper her and shower her with a bit of money. It all seems worth it.

Your new life starts. Everyday, you visit your wife (scan card), and make some excuses not to eat there. Then you turn to your mistress for her cooking. Initially, it was only once a day. Then twice and so on. Finally you find yourself not eating your wife's cooking at all for the past week.

You go for an outfield exercise and sweat it out, while bearing the elements, rain or shine. The only thing on your mind is your mistress, and eating her food. When you go back camp, the first thing is to rush to her and not to your wife.

You and your wife become strangers; you despise going back and eating the food. Everyday you pass by her without saying a word, just scanning and leaving. You are seldom at home.

The only time you eat at home, is when your wife cooks something special (western food).

You spend so much money on your mistress, before you know it, you find your bank account nearly empty (at end of the month).

"It's ok, payday is coming," you thought to yourself.

Your wife knows about your secret, but everyday she keeps preparing your food, hoping to see you come home and eat. Daily, she waits with diligence.

You also know that your wife is waiting everyday, but this knowledge that you can go home anytime and fall back on her when your money runs out, keeps you from going home, from eating her food. "It doesn't matter, she's always there for me," you said to youself.

How long is this going to go on?

________________________________________________________________

Fact 1: It is always livelier at the canteen
Fact 2: Everyone rushed to buy food from the canteen, the moment we came back from exercise. It is overwhelming to see 200 guys visit their 'mistress' all at the same time.

This affair will see many men follow the same path throughout their lives.

Men will always have to deal with their inner contradictions, as they struggle with the concept of bigamy.

Indirectly, NS provides the environment, making it very convenient for such affairs to occur.

Sometimes I wonder what is the rationale for placing both 'wife' and 'mistress' next to each other. Why do they even give us a choice to 'stray'?

Thus, this early conditioning of young men during their impressionable NS lives will shape their future altogether.

The next time you ponder about unfaithful men, here is another reason for their behaviour.

For people who loathes NS, this adds on to your displeasure.

For readers who find that my imagination is too wild for my own good, you are right. (LOL)

Until next time, when I come up with something more far-fetched then this....

Musings and Recommendations

2010-09-01T12:37:00.002+08:00

I would like to thank everyone for reading my blog, especially those who have been following it since my Friendster days.

No this is not my last posting and I am definitely not going to close my blog down.

Just wanted to say 'Thanks', because I am always pleasantly surprised when people suddenly start talking to me, in person, about my posting.

For the longest time, my postings are mostly bitchin/complaints/cynical and mainly the events surround me.

I had a talk with my wife the other day, and she did advise me that if I wanted to write as a career, I better stop writing about myself. She told me that I needed a portfolio or something, to impress any future employers. She also told me to be more focus and go all out to achieve my goal, once I have it in sight.

Actually, I have been thinking about it for a while now. Nobody would probably be interested in reading about me (beside my friends), unless I am a celebrity.

At times, I feel that my writings are immature and shallow. Compared to my friend's blog http://21dragons.com/ ( which is really good), I wonder when will my writing reach maturity.

Maybe I really should write less about myself, and more about general stuff, stuff that people are interested in, stuff that readers will follow. I should also take a 3rd person perspective, and use less emotion in my writing. (my ex-gf saw my appeal letter for a traffic fine recently, and told me it was full of anger)

2010, 30 years old. I should really be digging in my boots....

Meanwhile, since I am in the mood, I should also mention about this talented lady, stickgirl (xiaofen).

She was my ex-gf's batchgirl, during their trainee days in the airline, but personally I didn't know her.

I only heard more about her, when my wife, who also knew her after they did a flight together, told me more about her talents.

She draws and she writes about her views on life and things happening around her. Recently she published a book of her drawings and thoughts. I thought that was pretty neat. Go check it out http://stickgal.blogspot.com/

I wonder when will I be able to do that? Will I be motivated to go all the way?

I can't really answer that now, but I am hoping I would be able to soon...

Thought of the day

2010-07-22T20:22:00.002+08:00

As a new semester approaches and I struggled to read my latest textbooks, my mind cannot help but wander off somewhere else.

I may have above average grades but that does not make me a star student or a genius.

My attention span is the same as a 18 year-old, easily distracted and fidgety when a textbook is within 30cm from my face.

I am in Jakarta now, but my mind is fixated on Singapore. I am no patriot, but looking at the weather reports, I wonder if there would be reports of a third successive flood.

Suddenly, the 1st world, developed country, Singapore which was immune to natural disasters, counts flood as worse nemesis.

My thoughts resonate with the worried rich men, who stays in Bukit Timah. They must be wondering if they should buy more buckets for their maids to scoop out water if their basement carpark floods, or should they construct a barrage made of sand bags to deter the 'Act of God' (as described by MM).

I also thought about the Lucky Plaza ah bengs, who worries about getting their 'Amani' jeans wet when they report for work at the basement mobile phone shops. Maybe they should invest in 'Berberri' rubber boots, which will keep their feet dry and are stylish.

As PUB continues to scratch their heads looking for answers, the same way Mulder does in X-files. I can't help but want to shout to them, "Aye Dei! The Truth is out there la".

I try to continue my reading. Then I came across David Hume's observation. The writer wrote, 'People, once accustomed to obedience, never think of departing from the path in which they and their ancestors trod and to which they are confined by so many urgent and visible motives."

Well it sounds a bit profound at first, but on closer look (and several repeated readings), I can summarise it in my own terms, complacency due to comfort.

Of course this is not new, our government have been 'kind' enough to urge us not to be complacent, by using the donkey example, so that even my grandmother understands.

However, we review the past year and found that many of such complacency is found in their own backyard. ISD (limping terrorist), SMRT(Swiss Graffiti) and PUB (Floodgate) the latest culprit. Actually just Google any agency and probably there would be some story popping out somewhere.

To illustrate it better so that even the oldest member in the Parliament understands, is to use the Sarah Palin example. While campaigning with McCain as a potential Vice-President, her unmarried teenage daughter was found to be pregnant, while she was preaching about abstinence in schools. Then she did an about turn to support her daughter's decision and being proud to be a grandmother.

Well you can't do much now that the cat's out of the bag, so you might as well deploy a smokescreen to divert people's attention. That's a great tactic, and we see this every now and then.

A colleague said something that was in my mind for the longest time, "We are growing too fast and we can't catch up." 2 IRs, lots of new people, Circle line, Downtown line, Marina Barrage, hundreds of condo development, there was a lot of digging. Up coming, Sports Hub, more reclaiming, more condos and more new people. Someone should have seen something coming.
Just like when I took 5 modules last semester, and my wife warn me that my grades would suffer. As short-sighted as many of our leaders here, I proceeded and ended up with an 'F'.

In 2009, I went with a friend to look for a resale flat in Hougang. A 5-rm flat cost $370K, expensive in our perspective, as it is not renovated. As he decides to look at other inexpensive location, we walked away. Forward to a 8 months later, he bought a 4-rm flat just 15 mins away by bus for $480K. As we speak the prices are going higher as sellers expected cash up front of at least 35-40K.

Everyone was taken by surprise by the sudden price rise, and many couples, including me, was priced out. I guess we would be less surprised if the amount was raise more gradually, like prices of utilities and number of ERP gantries.

However, we were not as surprised when our pay were still the same as it was a year ago, no make it 3 years ago.

I feel that as a country prepares to move forward, everyone must move together. You don't leave anyone behind.

Ministries and agencies must do more to handle the sudden demand and population imports, and not left sprawling for solutions when things happen. Maybe there are small voices here and there, but their warnings are too soft to be heard by the higher ups.

Let's not be complacent. Everyone is responsible. Everyone.

Ok I finished wandering with my thoughts, it's time to get back to the book. I am taking 3 modules after what happened, as I am no longer 18 and certainly do not want another F.

Expectations

2010-06-30T17:47:00.002+08:00

As football (Proper British English) fever grips the world, fans all over celebrate this joyous occasion, which happens once every four years.

This is the first time that the tournament is held in Africa, and shows how far the continent has progressed.

As usual, there were shocking results from David vs Goliath-style matches. Spain losing to Switzerland, Japan beating Cameroon, and etc.

However, they were not as shocking as the fate of France and Italy.

Expectations were high for both former World Cup holders, and whose domestic league were fluorishing.

They were both knocked out in the first round.

The French did what they do best, by staging a 'revolution' within their squad and revolting against their coach, who was pretty lame but still coached them for 6 years.

The Italians were a bunch of uninspired old men, who were past their prime.

Just when punters around the world least expected, 2 of the favourites dropped out. (The English were no better, but by a simple twist of fate they scraped through)

Expect the unexpected, they say.

I can understand the full meaning of that phrase, when I checked my exam results online.

I got an 'F' for my Service Marketing module!

A former marketing student failing marketing. An employee of one of the world's best airline, reknown for excellent service, failing service marketing! (plus there was a question on airlines in the paper)

What a joke! How did I get my diploma? Sometimes I wonder.

This also markes the first time that I got an 'F' in my academic life. Although I keep mouthing Fs, it shocks me to see the physical form on paper.

The resit is due next year, as the module is only offered once a year. I have a year to reflect.

I guess the failure keeps me grounded and reminds me that good times don't last.

I wonder if the French and the Italians feel the same. After all, they have 4 years to think about their F.

property woes

2010-06-17T15:15:00.002+08:00

As many of you know, I have been in search of a flat for a while now.

I do not have to bitch about the sky-high prices because everyone else in Singapore is doing that.

I just wanna share (read=bitch), about the attitudes of property agents that I encounter.

It may seem funny at first, but on hindsight, I was shocked that people pay them so much for their services, no wonder any Tom, Dick & Harry wants to be an agent.

Incident 1:

I saw an ad in the website, propertyguru.com and send an enquiry thru the website. This was on Jun 3rd

The message was, "Hi Im interested in viewing the property, but currently Im overseas now and would be back this weekend. Could you help arrange a viewing? Thks"

The agent sent me an sms, "Hi, Im also overseas for holiday. Pls call me after Jun 14.."

2 puzzling thoughts: 1) Property agents earn so much that they can go for 2 wks plus holiday, without entertaining any clients or doing any sales. (since they on 100% commission)

2) No one in the sales line, who was interested in doing business, EVER told a customer to call them back. It has always be the sales person getting back to the customers.

Conclusion: Agents are getting so much business that they can choose their customers.

Btw, it is now June 17, and the above-mentioned agent has not call, text or email me back.

Incident 2:

I sms another agent with roughly the same message.

Unfortunately, I was told that the property in the ad has been sold. Thus, I ask if he has a similar property on hand.

He replied with an sms, asking me for a long list of my requirements, preferred level, direction of house, flat type, size, budget, bedrooms, toilets, furnishings, amenties, etc.

Since he had an email account, I wrote to him with my specifications. A sms reply would be too lengthy.

He did not reply my email, and for the next few days that I was in Singapore, I waited.

I did not get to view any flats during my off days, and was flying off again.

This agent smsed me when I was abroad, asking when I would be back and to contact him.

At first, I thought, this is much better, even though the reply was slow.

When I finally got back home, I called him.

The background was a bit noisy, and the conversation went like this.

"Hi, is that B? Im Donald and Im returning your call," I said.

"Oh hi Donald, sorry Im at the PC show now, and it's a bit noisy. Can I call you back?" He asked.

I said ok and ended the call. It was Sunday evening. I waited for his call.

Monday morning came and still I waited.

Tuesday morning came and I went off for flight.

When I reached Melbourne on Tuesday evening, I switched on my phone and I got an sms from that agent.

"Hi Donald, I tried to call you but without success. I have some viewings today, would you like to join?"

I was surprised by his sms. 1) when you tell a customer that you would call back because the background is too noisy, the customer would expect you to call back in an hour or more. NOT FUCKING 2 DAYS!

2) The customer, who is paying you the 1% commission (maybe come up to $3000 or more),
is not as important as A FUCKING COMPUTER SHOW?!!!

3) When a customer wants to arrange a timing to his convenience, the agent is expected to compromise or make concessions. WE DUN FUCKING FOLLOW YOUR SCHEDULE! 'WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN IN'-MY ARSE! This is not a joyride...

Conclusion: He is not fucking interested, earning too much, no EQ, IQ whatever Q. Treats customers casually, unprofessional and unreliable.

I decided not to contact him anymore.

I am a home-seeker. It's bad enough that we get poor service from government bodies like HDB, endure debt-ridden lives and sky-high prices that we cannot control.

Then we have to pay people so much cash over valuation for an old flat on leasehold...

Now we get shit from such agents, who are enjoying a good time, due to the low supply and high demand market.

This sucks. These people who collects a high amount of fees but gives shoddy services is what we don't need in our service industry.

It's frustrating. But remember this agents. Good times don't last forever. I choose who I wanna pay!

Playtime?

2010-06-09T12:56:00.003+08:00

Finally after 6 long months of assignments, deadlines and studying, my school semester is over.

4 papers and 1 end-course assignment drained my life away. Praying hard that I do not need to repeat any modules (fingers-crossed).

Now on a 2 month break before the semester commence in July. There are tons of things to do.

Fun and games aside, I need to look for a house. Hopefully there's a roof over my head by Xmas, latest CNY.

Sometimes, hunting for a place is fun; you can plan on the furnishing, renovation of your ideal home.

However, most of the time it is frustrating; with dollars and cents, nitty-gritty calculations, stuck-up/cunning/aloof property agents and sky-high prices.

I am glad that I am not facing all this alone. :-)

Real-life 'bad' guys

2010-05-09T15:46:00.002+08:00

For the record, my batchboy thought that the term 'Top Ten' was used to describe the most caring and kind colleagues in our company, when he started flying.

"How naive!" We all laughed at him.

The term 'Top Ten' in our company describes the most 'on-the-ball' people (usually the supervisors), that would reprimand, or write a complaint about our work performance to the company. They are known to be nit-picking, fussy, strict and harsh. Seeing their names on the list, strikes fear into many people's hearts. Some would choose avoidance, by swapping their flights or in extreme cases, take an MC.

Since I started this job, I had the 'privilege' of flying with most of them. Initially, I only knew a few. However, as time goes by, I met more from this 'elite' group.

Recently, I worked with CK, and it was my second time flying with him. I thought to myself, 'Aww shucks, whatever la,' as I could not be bothered to 'run away'.

During our briefing, his presence was commanding and his words are direct, but it may had sounded like a warning or threat to others.

He told us that we have to do our job well and if not he would have to do his. In short, we were told to do our best; conform to standards, and maintain discipline. The fear of being written in compelled us and we were on our best that day.

CK said something in the briefing room that made me recall my own past. 'Being right may not be correct, being correct may not be popular.'

This statement was to illustrate his management style. He would do the unpopular but correct things, like reprimanding for behaviour and attitude, writing in for poor work.

I recalled that I used to be like him in the army. I was strict and demanded discipline in my men. I was not friendly and kept a distance from them, in order to enforce certain unpopular regulation. I corrected their sloppiness and their attitudes in being a soldier. Everyone avoided me. In contrast to my other section commanders, I was the 'Top Ten'.

There was an incident where we had an appraisal in our platoon. Where all the soldiers have to write anonymous comments about the commanders. I wasn't surprised when the comments that I received were, 'Devil' and 'Very strict' among others.

Being correct means you have to be the bad guy, which is a role nobody wants in life.

Of course my men's discipline did not pick up, as I was the only bad guy in the whole platoon. The other commanders were like angels to them. There was too much inconsistencies. Like CK, I was isolated and did not have rapport with them.

That's why I empathise with CK; he was not being personal. It's all about work. Both of us never complain that we were unpopular, because that's the burden we carry when we decided to be enforcers.

In life, everyone wants to be the good guy. Politics, work, religion, society, school, you name it.

However, nobody wants to do the correct things. Like helping people in distress, standing up for your rights and telling people to behaviour themselves in public. Everyone was to keep quiet and appear popular, thinking that another person would take on the bane.

CK felt tired. There were more grey in his hair since 2 years ago. He told me he stepped on too many toes and was overlooked in his work. His behaviour is much demure now.

In the army, I also gave up after a while. It's called negative reinforcement. Do the correct things and yet get all the blame and no recognition. Anyone would feel tired.

So who are the real bad guys in life? Those who keeps quiet, does not counsel or correct wrong behaviour, let you rot and embarrass yourself, until you find out one day? Let you face the public with your zip undone or with bits of green stuck between your teeth?
Or are they individuals who take pride and ownership to correct on wrong behaviour, those who care enough to tell you that you have been doing the wrong things all this time, in the hope that you will not repeat your mistakes. Those who are stringent yet fair, picky but not personal.

You decide.

Letter of complaint - part 2

2010-04-19T15:22:00.002+08:00

After waiting for nearly 3 weeks, HDB estate management finally replied me.

However, it was hardly an apology and the content of the letter was redundant.

No follow-up action was promised to make improvements on HDB customer service, so you can be sure of getting rude and tactless customer service officer well into the 22nd century.

To show you how weak the letter is, I decide to publish the content here. Enjoy.

_________________________________________________________________________
Dear Mr Koh,

FEEDBACK ON ENQUIRY ON PURCHASE OF SEASON PARKING TICKET

Thank you for your feedback on 31 Mar 2010.

2 We are sorry to learn of your unpleasant telephone conversation experience with our staff on the subject matter.

3 We wish to explain that at the time of purchase of season parking for vehicle SJH5864E on 21 Dec 2009 for car park TP64, there were still parking lots
available for Jan 2010. Hence, you were able to purchase the Jan 2010 season parking for vehicle SJH5864E. However, due to current high demand of parking lots by lessees/registered occupants of the designated blocks, we are only able to sell season parking tickets to the lessees /registered occupants.

4 We note that the season parking ticket (SPT) under SJH5864E:
a) SPT for Jan'10 at Toa Payoh car park was terminated on 14 Jan 2010 ;
b) SPT for Apr'10 at Ang Mo Kio car park was terminated on 12 Apr 2010

5 Should you require further clarifications , you can call our Branch Operation Service Line at 1800-225432.

6 Thank you.

Yours sincerely

WONG YOCK THONG
SENIOR ESTATES OFFICER
for HEAD, TOA PAYOH BRANCH OFFICE
HOUSING ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

Letter of complaint to HDB

2010-03-31T19:29:00.002+08:00

In case my email is ignored, here is a copy of how I lodge a complaint to HDB, when I was so frustrated and angry with poor service attitude of their staff.
_______________________________________________________

Dear Mr Tan,

I refer to the memo below. I would like to lodge a complaint about the service attitude of 2 of your staff from the Toa Payoh Finance Branch, or whichever department that handles the transfer of car park.

Yesterday, 30 March 2010, at 3.15pm. I received a call from your staff with regards to my email to transfer address of season parking.

The female staff told me that my request is rejected, because I am not a resident, and therefore, I would not be able to transfer my season parking to TP64 group. I am residing at 470 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 #12-908

I ask her to put it under my wife's name, Tan Woon Whee Helena, who is residing at 200 Toa Payoh #08-1053.

When she did a check with my wife's IC, she found that my wife is also not registered as an occupant. Therefore, she reasoned that she could not transfer.

I understand this situation. I ask her,how is it that we were able to subscribe to a season parking under TP64 a few months back with the same car number? And why can't we do the same now?

She came back with the answer. "As you heard on the news, there is an overpopulation of vehicles in Singapore,
There is LIMITED slots, and we are giving priority to residents."

Fair comment. However, I do believe that this overpopulation of vehicles have been there for more than 6 months now. If you check TP64 carpark at night, cars have no space to park at all, leading to illegal parking. How do you justify giving priority now?

I then ask for the telephone number to AMK branch as I thought of trying transfer the parking there. She replied that she do not have it, and told me to call the 1800 line.

I wonder if that is acceptable for service staff to 'Not Know' and inconvenience the customer. This call lasted 10 minutes

2nd complaint.

I called the 1800 line, and tried to ask for the AMK branch number.

However, the service operator attempted to help me, hearing my situation. Unfortunately, it seems that she was unable to do so.

She offered to transfer the line, but instead of AMK, she put me back to Toa Payoh branch!

A different lady at Toa Payoh answered the call, without knowing the cause and origin of the call, she sounded more surprised that I was.

This lady, which did not say her name, heard my request and told me, "There is NO more vacancy at TP64 carpark"

Hearing this inconsistency, I voiced it out to her. She threw the question to me, "Who did you speak to?"

I have to admit, I did not pay attention to the first caller. She followed with, "You mean you don't know the name of who you speak to?"

This type of service attitude really infuriated me. Furthermore, she kept addressing me "Mister, Mister" without even asking for my name, although she had my IC number.

I was really put off by the service that I received from Toa Payoh Branch.

Is this the way service should be conducted, when we supposedly are putting in effort to servce like GEMS?

If that is so, then HDB Toa Payoh Branch has really taken 2 steps backwards.

In the end, my problem was solved when i called 1800 service line again, where a lady called Angeline attended to me.

Altogether, I spent 20 minutes on the phone, when my problem should have been solved in 5 minutes. Once again, is this efficiency?

In addition, did the staff offer me a possible alternative, like registering the car under listed occupants like my father and mother-in-law or my sister-in-law? Is it so difficult to be flexible and think out of the box, when so many customer service representatives have gather so many years of experience in handling customers?

As a concerned citizen and future HDB owner, I really hope that you could address this service lapse and remind staff that customers, come first.

Spending money on my sick 'child'

2010-03-16T02:46:00.004+08:00

My child has been sick for a while. The symptoms come off and on, very hard to predict when it will strike next. Doctors tried to give their remedies, but it just keeps recurring.

Please someone, tell me what to do? Since December last year, I brought her to the doctor's for 4 times already. I spent more than $1,000 already, medical bills are burning a hole in my pocket.

Someone told me to go Malaysia, the doctors there are more affordable. I have been thinking about it, but I just cannot spare the time to travel over. It is so frustrating and sad.

Today, she just came out of the clinic, I had to ask a friend to fetch her. My friend said that the doctor had advise that she may need an operation soon. Oh no! Where am I going to find the money?

Poor child, you suffered so much and now you are going to suffer even more. I wish there was something I could do to ease your pain....

Send her away you say? She's barely two, how can she fend for herself? How can I when she look like this....

yes... it's my car...what did you think I was talking about?

It's been suffering from a case of bad parts, poor engineering and quality control. I am afraid, it's hereditary, symptoms gotten from its predecessors.

Even though it is still 2 years old, there have been tons of problem, even an older car would be shock to hear it. It also performs like an old car. Poor pick up, underpowered engine and heavy body makes it feel like an old man.
I am also driving a 3 year plus Toyota MR2 Spyder, but it gives me lesser problems.

I go to Motorimage, only to receive sky-high prices and bad service.
The bills not only come from parts and servicing lubricants, but also from high fuel costs. This car is always thirsty, if it drank blood, probably I need to rob a blood bank or two.

You see, I really have no choice but to sell it off, even if it means losing a big sum of money. Because if I keep it, a larger sum of money slowly drains away from my pocket.

Before I send it to the agent, let me hear some offers, or forever hold your peace....

2010

2010-01-23T23:03:00.002+08:00

Whoa I have not blogged since last yr...lazy me...

2010 just slipped in quietly...bye 2009

This year is going to be a busy one for me. I took up 5 modules instead of the usual 4, in order to complete my degree sooner. Looks like plenty of work for me.

Concurrently, I will also be house-hunting and hope to move into my own place before my birthday...but it looks like before Xmas would be a better bet!

I will also try to juggle my finances and expenses, with the 2 cars...

Finally, I will also need to keep my wife happy, with every minute that I have.

Phew!!! With so many things to keep me occupied, I won't be surprised if 2011 come rushing in...

Have a fruitful year ahead!

Dreams come true

2009-11-28T23:44:00.002+08:00

Ten years ago, when I was still a pre-army polytechnic boy, completed with shoulder length hair and poor fashion sense, I had a dream.

The dream was to own a convertible before I was 30 years old.

I saw many old, balding men, trying to fulfill their childhood fantasy by driving sports cars, and I was put off by that image. I certainly do not want to drive 'topless' showing my balding pate and silver hair...

No doubt, they are successful and rich, and it is a requirement to owning a flashy ride. However, I told myself, I would strive to achieve the same in half the time.

That was 1999. I was naive and unexposed to the real world.

Earning a living was tough when I came out of army; it happened to be 2003, when the SARS virus was affecting Singapore and the world economy.

I was barely drawing enough for my meals. Furthermore, I did not even have a driver's licence!
I was disillusioned and kept this dream away.

As my lifestyle change and character changed, I left that dream behind. I was turning 29 and I thought that I would not be able to fulfill the dream.

One fine day, as I was chatting with my wife, I brought up the subject of dreams. It was then that I told her about the dream that I once had.

We were house-hunting and had our priorities on saving for a house. However, there are plenty of obstacles in our hunt, and both of us were frustrated from it.

She was driving her Dad's old Nissan Sunny, which was due to be scrapped next year. I had previously 'scolded' her for looking to buy cars.

After a frustrating house hunt, we both decided that we should get a car, like some sort of consolation...

Then she brought up my dream; to own a convertible. I told her that it was quite impossible.

She done her maths and was researching online. She told me her calculations. It is achievable.

I was touched. I knew it is an indulgence to many people, and many more would disapproved.

To have my own wife support me in this, was unbelievable. I knew that she loved me more than anyone in my life has loved me before.

She proposed that we buy a pre-owned car and sell it off in 2 years, when we will be changing careers.

Off we went, weeks of viewing and searching for the right model. We ended up on 2 choices. A Toyota MRS convertible and a Subaru Forrester.

I like the Subaru too, as I am an SUV fan. It was a tough decision and my wife allowed me to choose on my own.

In the end, I opt for the convertible, as I want to fulfill my long-time dream. Owning an SUV, or a normal saloon can be done later in life. The time for the convertible is now.

Yes, it is impractical; no boot space, no extra passenger space and high maintenance. Despite these flaws, the desire to fulfill my dream overtook me.

Don't get me wrong. I am still the practical and prudent Donald. I still cringe at 1000 dollars Louis Vuittons...

But let me ask you, how do you determine the cost of your dream?

_____________________________________________________

On another note, my wife has fallen out with her mum, while bringing me happiness.

Her mother thinks that we are impractical and have no priority.

I am sad when I see my wife gloomy and all. Although she never said a word, I feel responsible.

My dream came through, but at this cost? In the process of making one person happy, two persons feel unhappy.

haiz...

Conflicts

2009-11-14T23:27:00.003+08:00

Have been reading my textbook religiously for the past week, paper is just 3 days away...

While going through the book, the topic of conflict caught my attention. Although, the book is talking more about conflicts between cultures, it seems that the concept of conflict is applicable to all relationships; even BGR...

Just felt like sharing, cause the moment I read it, a sense of de ja vu overwhelmed me..

'Conflicts is inevitable and there are several sources. It occurs when people misinterpret each other's behaviour (true)

Once conflicts start, they tend to perpetuate (continue indefinitely), especially if there are already problems (sounds familiar)

Conflicts always have implications for our relationships with others; when it is over, our relationship changes. However, we often do not recognise that management of conflict is critical to how they will affect our relationship

Conflicts get out of control, when we do not recognise that it actually serves many positive functions in our lives, like bringing people closer.

Conflicts with others help us to define our roles and understand our feelings of others.'

Gudykunst and Kim (2005) Communicating with Strangers: Intercultural Communication

anger management

2009-11-06T12:10:00.003+08:00

Just came back from Melbourne, my first couple flight with my wife.

The flight was a litmus test on the days to come for the rest of our flying career; whether would we get along when we fly together.

However, already few hours into the flight, all my worries came true.

My anger reared its ugly head, and I began feeling frustrated. It's not the first time.

I don't know why I can't control my outburst, and I get agitated easily, when I work with people close to me.

Helena is the not the only one. I frequently scream at my family members as well.

All my ex-girlfriends had been victim of my temper.

My buddy got 'zap' by me during our SNY...

Football people also got f**ked by me

Haiz...just when I thought my temper has subsided as I got older, now I screamed at wife.

I am at a loss...guess I need constant reminder of my temper. Im like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

Baby if you are reading this, please forgive me!

Forgive this foolish man for his repeated mistakes.

I beg your patience with me for our journey together...through life.

For friends who are reading this, if I stepped on your toes before, please overlook my carelessness. Sometimes my apology comes much later....

Guess this flawed human still needs a lot of work.

Random Political Thoughts

2009-10-30T12:22:00.005+08:00

My toilet is the place where I brainstorm. It is the place where I put my thinking cap on, and ponder over the universe.

There are one thousand and one things, that comes to my mind while I am squatting there.

Not to be crude and or disgusting, but it is the truth. I come up with brilliant ideas that could be life-changing, but as soon as I pull the flush, reality sets in and wonderful ideas get sucked into the sewage.

Here is one idea, that I would like to share before I go and do my assignment.

Back in camp, my new RSM (regimental sergeant major) scolded us and told us what he thinks. He said, 'There are no bad soldiers, just bad commanders!' Then he followed up with a warning that we would be responsible for the discipline and wayward behaviours of our men.

Of course, all of us scoffed at his speech. 'We reservist leh! Siao ah!'

Then today, while thinking about our government actions, I recalled the Mas Selamat incident.

Yes, the authorities could not contain a limping, fat terrorist, and allowed him to escape. A manhunt of over a year, before he was 'found' in Malaysia. ('found' because I am still skeptical of it)

Then the Internal Security Department head apologised for the incident, and was subsequently praised! He kept his job. Many people also called for Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng's head, but he is still comfortably sitting in his seat.

Hey, this is the equivalent of US capturing Osama Bin Laden, and allowing him to escape!

Anyway, that is beside the point. Suddenly, I visualised my RSM saying to Wong: "There are no bad guards, only bad ministers!"

Bam! I realised what my RSM said held truth. How can I be so short-sighted? I apologise for that.

Maybe the SAF runs differently from the Ministry of Home Affairs?

I was just about to formulate some response to that, but by the time I came out from the toilet, all these ideas went into the bowl...

Prices and Wages

2009-10-28T15:56:00.002+08:00

Remember I was bitching about eating out in Singapore and comparing it to Tokyo?

That was in July, when I felt that prices of eating out in Japan is slowly coming down, comparable to Singapore, except that they had better service. (http://criticalpieceofshit.blogspot.com/2009/07/cognitive-dissonance-and-migraine-that.html)

Well, a few months later, I was proven right, when the UBS survey was released, and the Business Times did a report on it.

Here's the copy. Note that comments in brackets and highlighted are my comments.

older

2009-10-12T21:14:00.002+08:00

You know what is great when you get older?

You get more experienced, due to all the trial and errors of life. You also remember alot of things from the past, learn from your mistakes and benefit from others' mistakes.

'Youth is wasted on the young' - I don't know who said it, but after a few years, I finally understand how true is that phrase.

I never seem to make good decisions in life, especially when I was younger. Money, investment, choice of jobs, etc. One bad move and it leaves a dent in your life.

Now that I am older, I review alot of my decisions from before. When Homer Simpson realises he made a mistake, he would slap his forehead and shout, 'Douph!'...I totally feel the same that over many of my choices.

There was this Mercedes C class commercial on TV a while back. It depicts the way life they think should be. Life, according to them, should start when one is old, established and successful. As time goes by, you enjoy and get younger at the same time. Until when you reached your mid-thirties, successful, energetic, rich and a yuppie...then you buy a Mercedes C class.

Although this is just an ad to make you buy an outrageous and expensive car, it does play on the phrase, 'Youth is wasted on the young'.

I don't know about you, but when I get older, I feel empowered and I thirst for knowledge still. I feel that I can keep my focus better. Although sometimes I still make 'Douph' decisions, old age allows me to minimise that.

So who wants to be forever young?

Movies Top Ten

2009-10-08T17:20:00.002+08:00

Recently I managed to take up a film studies module in school. I was pretty excited about it as I always like to write reviews and also had waited a year to take this module
A few months into it, I regretted my decision.

Instead of just the normal critique you see in newspapers and magazines, the film module is full of technical terms, art style and directions.

I took many weeks to finish a report, and my head feels like exploding...I never expected it to be so intense and tedious...

Anyway, during the course of study, I realised that there are tons of movies that I never got a chance to watch.

I do hope to watch them one day, without having to do a report....ha...

Top Ten Movie Wishlist

1. Pulp Fiction
2. Scarface
3. Raging Bull
4. Schindler's List
5. Seven Samurai
6. Forrest Gump (never completed watching)
7. Philadelphia
8. Malcolm X
9. Natural Born Killers
10. Apocalypse Now

Of course there are plenty others which I had seen, and I fully recommend you to catch it if you haven't done so.

Top Ten Watched List

1.Citizen Kane
2.Godfather 1-3
3.Taxi Driver
4. Chungking Express
5. Brokeback Mountain
6. Vantage Point
7. LOTR trilogy
8. Amelie
9. Kill Bill
10. Star Wars IV-VI

Enjoy!

Mr & Mrs Koh

2009-08-28T00:25:00.002+08:00

August 09 will be a time to remember. In a short 30 days, I have experience all sorts of joy and laughter.

On Aug 19, 2009, I am officially somebody's husband.
I have taken the plunge!

Helena planned a surprise for me during our ROM, with all my close friends in 'cahoots' with her! A plot one month in the making!

A boat trip, with all my close friends, plus food, drinks and the smell of the sea. A first in my life!

Reflecting on the day after, I realised that my wife pays attention to the finest details, is a better event planner than me and that she cares alot for me.

The way that my friends went out of their way for me, also shows that they treasure me a worthy friend.

I think I am blessed already...even though I repeatedly failed to strike ToTo...:-)

A lot of mixed feelings; happiness, joy, excitement, anxiousness and fear of the unknown.

Happiness and joy - to know that I am sharing my whole life with Helena, to know that someone accepts me as who I am and what I have become. Joy to know that she truly cares for me and those around me. Someone who is more tactful than I am, and more optimistic than I. Someone who told me to love myself and move on, away from the shadows of my family.

Excitement and anxiousness - Excited by the future prospects of us living a new life and starting a new family. Anxious in trying to make things perfect...gan cheong for that matter

Fear of the unknown - Nobody likes to go in the cave without a lamp, or jump into a pool of murky water. Fear of what lies in front of our future, too many possibilities.

Also fear that my stubbornness will rear its ugly head, and turn her off. Hopefully, I will be mature about things from now on. Marriage is an OJT (on-job-training)...nothing can prepare one for it. A couple only grows, when they learn from their mistakes together.

At a time when many people around me are going through divorces, marital problems and relationship problems, it is not an optimistic landscape to paint our future.

However, as what I told Helena, we need to promise and make an effort to work things out together, as a unit, and as husband and wife.

The commitment and responsibility to not only love each other, but also to be accountable for oneself and each other, plays a big part in fulfilling this promise.

'With this ring, I wed thee,
From now till the end of our journey,
I devote my life,
with all my heart and soul.'
~Don

The New 5 Cs

2009-07-30T23:43:00.002+08:00

It has been more than a decade since the term '5 Cs' had been coined. in fact, I believe it is nearly 20 years.

'Cash, Condo, Credit Card, Country Club and Car - The Singaporean Dream.' We all grew up with it as the standard.

However, upon reviewing it, I think Singaporeans need a new standard, as the country progresses.

'Why?' One may ask. Look at it this way. Many items of the 5 Cs have become easily attainable and it would not be a challenge anymore.

Condo? Everyone is buying one now.

Card? Even a 21 year old can get one.

Car? There has been such an influx of new cars on the road, that there are jams everywhere and everytime.

Thus, let me unveil the new Singapore Dream; the 5 Fs.

Fluidity, Flexibility, Foresight, Freedom and Faith.

Fluidity - in assets and cash. Singaporeans should aim to be fluid and debt-free. It's not easy, and that is why it is part of a dream.

Flexibility - in working and expectations for work. Must be flexible enough to be able to withstand the shit thrown by your customers, superiors and colleagues. The 'can-do' attitude needs to be cultivated, in order to fend off foreign talent competitors.

Foresight - We cannot depend on the Government to have the foresight. Sometimes, through research and studies of trend, one can have better foresight and make sound investments. Do not follow the crowd and you may be duly rewarded. Not only you are able to make your money work, you will also be in a better position to make decisions at home, at work and in your community. Maybe someday that old X men comic will make you a millionaire. Take the road less travelled.

Freedom - Singaporeans can never have enough freedom. In speech, in their actions, in their dreams. Sometimes there is a glass ceiling put in place by others; but most of the time, the ceiling is placed by oneself. Yes, there are many rules and regulations laid by the Government and their entities; all these take a long time to be changed. However, freedom in the way Singaporeans think; perceptions and stereotypes, can be changed quickly by oneself. Free the way you think, and you will think out of the box.

Last but not least, Faith - It is not only the search for spiritual faith; faith extends to a wider area. Faith in fellow Singaporeans, that they will be civic-minded, gracious and courteous. Faith that Singaporeans will evolved and no longer be called 'Ugly Singaporeans'. Faith that the people will change society with their movement and involvement, bottom-up and not top-down.

Faith that one day, all of us can achieve our own 5 Fs and exclaimed at our deathbeds, 'Yes, I have lived the Singapore Dream!'

Cognitive Dissonance and a migraine that won't go away

2009-07-23T18:32:00.004+08:00

This is what happens to people with conflicting thoughts at the same time.

Explanation retrieved from changingminds.org

'This is the feeling of uncomfortable tension which comes from holding two conflicting thoughts in the mind at the same time.

Dissonance increases with:

The importance of the subject to us.
How strongly the dissonant thoughts conflict.
Our inability to rationalize and explain away the conflict.

Dissonance is often strong when we believe something about ourselves and then do something against that belief. If I believe I am good but do something bad, then the discomfort I feel as a result is cognitive dissonance.'

Yup, it happened to me lately. I bought a lot of expensive things and they conflict with my principle of being prudent.

Thus, in order to 'release' the tension before I go crazy, I tried to justify my actions, to be in line with my principle.

Things I bought and the 'justification' that I came up:

1) Tumi Bag costing $450 SGD (Shudder) - My trolley bag is spoilt already, and it is good to invest in a good brand, so that next time I won't need to buy another bag....

2) Phiten Titanium Bracelet costing $468 SGD (Double-shudder) - I need it to increase my metabolism, blood circulation and reduce my backache.

Ok la, some of you may think it's all excuses... but people who are close to me knows I hardly spend big amounts.

Anyway, there are lots more expenditure coming up, and sometimes I shudder when I look at the bills.

But I guess certain amounts must be spent.

Now my biggest headache is buying a house. At a time when Singapore's property prices are over-inflated, it is easy to fall into a money-trap.

It is penalising young people starting a family; it is unfair.

Buying a property is not only about money, but there are so many rules and regulations, that it makes me sick.

That is why so many Singaporeans, like me, look forward to winning the grand prize in the lottery.

Things has become so expensive that it is like a big bubble, waiting to burst. Somehow I feel that we are in a very precarious situation.

Downturn in world economy, high percentage of unemployment, terrorism, slow consumer spending. 'Inflated property market' just doesn't seem to fit in with the rest.

I just had a few meals in various restaurant in Japan. I did a comparison with the prices of dining out in Singapore.

Surprise, surprise, guess who came out top?

Little old Singapore, where dining out for 2 costs at least 20 dollars more compared to dining in downtown Tokyo.
Same type of food (pasta), but shitty service (sin) compared to excellent service minus the language barrier (Japan).

It is nauseating. Consider that the average salary men in Tokyo earns more than our Singaporeans.

High prices has crept up on us from behind and revealed it ugly head. Now, the prices of our basket of daily items has gone up significantly, isn't it time for our measly pay to go up as well?

Try as I might, I am unable use the cognitive dissonance theory and justify all these.

I really hope election comes soon.

Meanwhile, I wait, and wait. Indulging in my lottery dreams.

3G

2009-07-09T13:52:00.002+08:00

Somehow or rather, buried in my books, I start to lose track of technology...

I was in Japan last week, and the moment I took out my phone at the hotel to check for messages, the screen showed 'No Service'.

'Hmmm...maybe it is slow in detecting, perhaps I should reboot it,' I thought.

The second attempt to fiddle with the phone was in vain. It was only then, that I remembered of the existence of '3G' phones....

Damn. I have not been to Japan or Korea for at least 8 months now. Back then, I still had my Sony Ericsson.

I felt stupid, and wanted to kick myself, except that my big tummy was blocking my knees, thus preventing me from lifting my leg to kick my face.

Anyway, it got someone else pissed too.

Time to shop!

Finally....

2009-06-24T13:54:00.003+08:00

After a month of waiting, I finally got my exam results, putting an end to the speculations.

I not only passed all 3 modules, but I also maintain my standards from last semester. Phew!

In addition, just when I thought I would fluke one particular module, I scored the highest at it.

Life is full of surprises. ( I would like to say 'the ball is round' but there no relationship here)

Anyway, the thing is that Im feeling quite guilty for my grades, because I did not study hard...so I was quite lucky to get away with it.

Come next semester, I will be taking 4 modules, hopefully, I would continue doing well in them.

For fellow students who are going through the same thing like me, I wish all of you best of luck.

All the money in the world

2009-05-16T02:18:00.002+08:00

As the day of the 8 million lottery grand draws closer, I go into my usual day-dream mode.

Thinking about the lottery makes me too excited to sleep, always. Therefore, here I am, blogging about nothing in the wee hours of the morning.

A little day-dreaming does not kill anyone; as long as they do not take over your life.

I love to dream about winning the lottery. 1, 3, 8 or 10 million; it does not matter.

Dream about the things I can buy and do, the problems I can solve, and the people that I can please.

Who doesn't?

However, for once I thought about something different.

What about the things that I can never do, even if I had all the millions in the world?

That set me thinking. In a world where money talks, it is a situation that is hard to imagine.

Here goes:

1) You can buy time, but not lost time.

No one can build a time machine and go back into the past. There is no way to go back in time, undo the wrongs that you did, apologise to the ones you hurt.

There is no way to go back to school, and tell yourself then to study hard. There is no way to resolve past misunderstandings.

You cannot tell the girl waiting at the bus stop everyday, that you liked to be her friend.

You cannot tell the school bully that he is just an insecure piece of shit.

You cannot tell your girlfriend, that you really love her, but break up was just because you are an immature jerk.

2) I cannot experience the warmth of a complete, happy family.

For people coming from broken families, like me. The thing that is most elusive to us, would be the warmth of a happy family.

I never knew how living in a complete family, with a father, mother and brother, happily together feels like. I think I never will, even if I had millions.

I would never know, if I would have turn out to be a different person, with a normal childhood.

No amount of money can make one go through this all over again

3) There is no second life

I am not talking about the virtual game.

Even if you had all the money in the world, I cannot live forever. I cannot use my 'tokens' to buy an extra life.

Be it a rich man, or a pauper, I would still face death. Deprived of my possessions, my clothes, my family, friends and love ones. I face death alone, just as I came to the world on my own.

There is no way, one can revive themselves after their last breath. It is impossible to wake up, with the knowledge that you just died five minutes ago, and walk through the same door that brought you in, lying in your coffin.

4) Men still cannot fly without machinery

That is why I still have a job.

5) You can try, but you cannot buy good health nor youth

I cannot return my grandmother's good health back to her, no matter how much I pay. (although I can pay for organs now)

Nor can I give her back her looks and beauty.

No insurance can promise invulnerability. Although I wished there was one, so that my auntie does not need to suffer for her cancer, and my grandma will not writhe in pain every night, from her dialysis, high blood and renal problems.

I will have perfect skin, not the rough, pigmented hide that covers me now.

I will constantly be full of energy, stamina and endurance, just like when I was 18.

6) There is no gadget that I can use to see through a person's mind

I wish I can tell who is friend or foe, in a instant

I cannot see through a person's heart, whether they harbour good or ill-intentions.

Whether they will be true friends or long-standing enemies.

Whether they will betrayed or be betrayed.

I wish I can show old uncles, that the nimble, young thing waiting for them outside the bank, does not admire their looks nor character.

I wish that I can advise my female friends which guy to trust and which not to.

I wish I can tell my brothers, that the car salesman is trying to push his old stock to them.

I wish that I can tell which girl will follow me to the ends of the world, through the depths of time, willingly and sincerely.

..........If only money can do all these

Life would not be worth living, would it?

ST please report truthfully!

2009-05-10T01:18:00.002+08:00

I was reading the papers about Mas Selamat Kastari (MSK), the infamous terrorist leader, that managed to escape Singapore's Internal Security Department (ISD), with one lame leg.

The headline read something like this,'.....ends months of anxiety of Singaporeans'.

At first this headline seems to be perfectly fine, until I realised something. MSK fled his captors for more than a year!

Further reading of the article found that the reporter had written, 'fled for 14 months' in the paragraphs near the end.

Is this not trying to put the failure of ISD in a good light? HELLO! 1 year plus say 1 year plus la.
Please do not try to bluff Singapore readers leh!

This is perfectly why I chose not to read Straits Times since the last election in 2005!

The headline totally do not match with the content. 14 months is not 'months of anxiety'! It is a goddamn year! (Notice the difference of impact when a year is used, as compared to months)

The ironic thing is that I have to pick up the paper, because of my exams. Rest assured that I will not do it after. I am rather contented with International Herald Tribune, Yahoo and other sources.

_________________________________________________________________

I just want to clarify my stand. Yes, I do believe that ISD is accountable for their negligence, and guys at the top should be replaced.

However, this entry is more about ST's subjective reporting.

Yes, news reporting can never be objective, but in a country like ours, where there is a need to present news in a neutral perspective. This would enable people to think critically, from another point of view.

___________________________________________________

I came across an interesting quote recently, which I forgot from whom and where.

'Democracy will end, if people stop reading.'

I think the person who quoted it, probably is not from Singapore.

Based on what materials are we talking about here? ST? Oh please.

Anyway, Singaporeans are generally not idiots. Many people know about the 'objectiveness' of ST.

Oh yeah, before I forget. I recently got a link to ST forums or STOMP. Usually issues are raised in threads for discussion, and comments can be input. Hopefully constructive ones that improves society.

When I was following a particular thread about Sarong Party Girls (SPGs), it started with object and truthful comments from several people.

That is until it got personal. People with differing views (unfortunately, men in this case), starting arguing in response to each other. It developed into name-calling and childishness.

I was very surprised. People throwing insults at each other over, in a forum by the national papers. I thought they would be mature and exercise some civil manners in cyberspace....but no!
They chose to behave like ah bengs and kids. ST Forum is no different from Sammyboy forum.

Nothing remotely constructive about that. People just want an avenue to vent their frustrations, to boast and show-off. Probably they do not get the chance to do it at work and at home.

What is the point of getting emotional in cyberspace? In a national forum?

Adults behaving like adolescents. Disgraceful.

Ok. That's enough complaining from this adolescent. Back to my books.

Out of action

2009-04-28T12:59:00.002+08:00

Just came back from the doctor, been wanting to address a niggling leg problem that has been recurring for the last 2 weeks.

Seems that I feel a sharp pain whenever I squat or lift my left leg up.

It came to a point where I was unable to walk properly in Shanghai last week. I was limping and could not get up from the toilet bowl, unsupported.

Went to Fudan University Hospital and took an x-ray, being wheeled here and there in a wheelchair. Doctor did not find anything broken or cracked, so he prescribed me some painkillers. Kinda SOP...

I do not really know what is the cause myself...so I have to take it easy and skip running, football and swimming for a while. Damn...

Well, fortunately (or unfortunately), my exams are round the corner, so it will do me good to stay at home and not run around.

Can't wait to get rid of my fats...haha

There is always a constant dilemma of wanting to downgrade and be a 'lobo' soldier, versus my desire to keep running and play football. If my injuries were serious enough for me to downgrade my pes level, probably I will never be able to run and kick a ball again.

Sounds crazy, but I would rather maintain my ability to do sports, anytime.

Since I am 'excused' from lower limb exercises, I think I will work on my neglected upperbody...till my leg no longer feels the acute pain.

Until then.

P.S. To those mugging for exams (like me), good luck!

it's been a while

2009-04-18T16:10:00.003+08:00

I am writing this, while been stranded at Ho Chi Minh Airport. Long story...will talk about that later....

I cannot remember when was my last entry.

I have been busy studying, dating, working and lazing around.

In less than a month, I would have to take 3 papers for my exams.

Life's a bit hectic, but so far it has been good.

Keeping my brain active with challenging assignments, haha...learning is good

I just hope that after my papers I can continue with some hobby that I missed.

1) Running - Apparently I have not started training for the 21KM, in fact, I run lesser now. Getting fat too....

2) Rockclimbing - Can't remember when was my last climb. But I hope to participate in more climbs this holiday (as it is drier season)

3) Reading - For leisure of course. I have even finished reading the books that I bought.

Also have not met with Sakuran people for a few months liao. That's another thing that I hope to achieve in June.

For now, I have to bury myself in my textbooks, practice my writing and keep my fingers crossed that I would do well in my exams.

After doing a module in psychology, I learned a bit more about myself and life, . I also think getting old plays a part in understanding oneself - maturity

Being with someone more mature also helps...:-)

I hope that everyone will stay healthy and enjoy life. Just like me :-)

(I think my writing kinda taken a turn for the worse, guess too much academic writing spoils it)

Measure of a man

2009-02-24T23:46:00.002+08:00

'What is the measure of a man?'

In a week full of deadlines, perhaps it is not the time for me to think about this timeless question.

However, I had a conversation (read: argument) with someone dear yesterday. She told me something that would mess with my head the whole day. Something that really opened up my mind.

How does one measure the worth of oneself? What standards do we set to achieve before we deem ourselves successful?

Since young, we all follow certain standard that society set, thinking that they are the norm.

In school, we all aim to top the class, if not, be the top three. Parents want their kids to ace their exams, teachers want their students to behave in school.

When you have the latest sneakers, toys, video game, you are the coolest kid in school.

One is only popular in school when they excel in sports, always complete their homework (and passing to everyone to copy) and when they stand up to bullies.

When we go into army, success standards are more physical; whoever can run the course fastest, and always get IPPT gold are deem elite.

When you are in tertiary school, whichever guy who drives a snazzy car, usually get the girls.

Now, as a working adult, everyone wants to drive an expensive car, earn big bucks, have a exciting career, pretty spouse(s), big house, privilege entry into clubs and live a jet-set life or based overseas.

Does having all this material things, make one a cut above the rest?

Are you a lesser man because you have none of these?

Yes. All this while, i feel inferior because I have none of the above.

Worse still, people around me all seem to have all of the above.

In your face dude....

Don't get me wrong. I love my friends. I love hanging out with them. I don't have many friends, so those who I always see, are really my dear friends.

Maybe it's the frustration of not achieving the standard. I feel lost.

Then, while arguing, she told me something.

'You are a great man. Your love of your friends, your love of your grandmother, brother and the means and ways you go out of your way to help them.'

'The steps you took to widen your horizon, by taking up a degree'

'The effort you make, trying to ensure I am always comfortable'

Wow. I never knew that these intrinsic values would mean anything to anyone. I don't even find them worth mentioning, as they are too minor.

This is the first time that someone told me they value my values. It really took me by surprised, as I never look at myself this way. It is really a new perspective.

I am still in a daze.

Thank you, H, for loving me as myself.

February

2009-02-01T00:30:00.005+08:00

Broke ah...my roster sucks

Now I am a super 'sub', i have 5 standbys in feb. Which means I only have about 3 flights this month.

Being on the 'bench' for so many times this month is not good on my wallet.

Somemore, February is the month where all pisces celebrate their birthday....

Argh...I am gonna be broke....so many presents to buy....(I have many pisces friends)

Need to invest in Toto this month...maybe can cover 'losses'....haha

New Year, New Resolution(s)

2009-02-01T00:08:00.004+08:00

Someone commented that this blog was a good read, amidst all the grammatical and spelling errors...

2009 is here and what a start.

There was never a time when, the festive season felt so gloomy, even with both New Year's day falling on the same month.

However gloomy life may seem, I think we all need to have resolutions to fire up the spirit inside.

Since I only manage to clear 2 out of 3, I will have to carry on to this year the remaining one.

ANNOUNCING....DONALD'S 2009 NY RESOLUTION

1) To run a half marathon, after a 3 year absence
2) To own my own apartment...or move out
3) Not to overeat....

This year's resolution seems a bit tougher...my chances of completion are not high, but what the heck...I will try my best la

:-)

Random thoughts

2009-01-06T00:01:00.000+08:00

如果爱情有一个期限，我们就会更珍惜吗？

无知和不问，真的能获得到小幸福吗？

期望低，不在乎未来，简单的爱，就会快乐吗？

“在一起开心就好。” 真的足够吗？

Our future

2008-12-26T03:32:00.000+08:00

I had a very interesting conversation with a colleague from Mainland China the other day.

We were discussing about the future; comparing the opportunities in both our home countries.

Knowing that many Mainland Chinese are fiercely patriotic, I had the urge to ask her why. Being Singaporean, patriotism is basically a myth. We find it hard to nurture Singaporeans to be patriots, many had tried but with limited success.

She told me the reason was simple; our roots are not here. To be more specific, whether you are Chinese, Malay or Indian, most likely your ancestors migrated to Singapore. Basically we are descendants of migrants, be it workers or business owners. Our ancestors came to this country seeking wealth and opportunities, where there were lack of back in their hometown.

I agreed with that statement. Many older Chinese in Singapore, like my grandmother, had wanted to return to their homeland and spend their remaining days there.

My colleague added that, many Mainland Chinese working here faced a similar situation as our forefathers. However, in times of crisis, such as the recent earthquake in Sichuan, many of the migrants would be united in their efforts to help their countrymen back home.

As her husband has recently gotten citizenship in Singapore, I went on to ask about her plans for the future. She told me that she will remain a citizen of China, as she believed that in the future, China would be a much more prosperous country where opportunities are plenty. That confidence is not based on blind faith.

She told me she cannot see the future of Singapore.

A very strong and curious statement, which compelled me to probe further.

She related an incident during her holiday in which one family was travelling on business class.

During the meal service, satay (a local dish of meat kebabs in peanut sauce) was served. Usually, the flight attendant would dish out a plate of 3 sticks for each passenger, so that everyone gets an equal share.
When the trolley came to this family of 4, the younger boy used both his hands and happily retrieved all the chicken satay meant for everyone, onto his own plate. The parents kept quiet.

The trolley had to return and replenish the items. When it was pushed out again, this time the older boy, with slightly more manners, requested from the attendant to put as many sticks on his plate as possible. In his words, 'as many and as much as possible'. Again the parents kept mum.

Of course, some of you may not see anything wrong with growing children asking for more food. However, do consider the fact that it was only halfway through and the remaining passengers had not being served. Secondly, which many Singaporean adults are equally guilty of, not everything in life is a buffet.

This example is just one of the many displayed by Singaporean parents. By keeping their silence, parents failed to educate their children on the importance of manners and being considerate. At such a young age, many kids are selfish and do things that only benefits themselves. Without proper manners, we are nurturing a nation of rude, egotistical, self-centred and inconsiderate brats. Children are supposed to be our future, if parents fail to see the importance and remain aloof to the situation, then Singapore's future is bleak.

She further added that she will never raise her kids in our country, because at least in China, many parents care, and teaches their children proper manners and social etiquette.

'What about the recent melamine scare?' I questioned, trying to save some national pride. 'For every one step forward that China takes, they seem to take two steps back.'

Calm and composed, my colleague added that China is making the transition from a developing country to a developed one. There are bound to be teething problems, but at least they are being addressed at an earlier stage. The public is more aware and would scrutinised every detail from now on. It is going to help China become a more socially responsible nation, after events like that.

The conversation really got me thinking; patriotism, nationalism, and social responsibility are not going to be achieved by our government imposing fines and strict laws. It can only be done with the change of attitude and actions taken by the people to make things happen.

If Singaporeans stick to their hands-off approach about national issues and keep on being selfish about their own existence, there would be no progress. In the next 20, 30 or even 100 years, things will remain the same. Singapore will still be known as the 'kiasu' nation and its people deemed rude and unwelcome everywhere.

Sleep

2008-12-17T14:10:00.000+08:00

Have you ever had dreams and wakes up the next day feeling tired?

I have been a 'victim' of this for a while now and I cannot comprehend it. When I was in the army, every night I 'blackout' while listening to my MD player. (yes it was that long ago)

By the 2nd track, I would have fallen asleep. Though I woke up the next day, refreshed, there is a feeling that it was just a short moment ago that I went to sleep. In actual fact, I slept for a good 7 hours without realising it.

Everyday would be the same, deep sleep with no dreams.

Nowadays, it's almost impossible for me to get to that stage. No matter how tired I am, dreams always besiege my sleep. My mind would keep churning out fiction amidst fact.

My overenthusiastic mind does needless overtime every day, with me feeling worn out the following day. I really dread it.

Furthermore, I am unable to sleep for long even if I am very tired. After an all-nighter, I can hardly get 5-6 hours at one shot. Being a light sleeper also does not help.

I envy those 'sleeping beauties' friends of mine, who can sleep for 10-12 hours anytime.

Recently, I told someone about not having a good sleep due to dreams. He told me that when one has dreams, it is when they are in a deep slumber.

Surprised by his comment, I told him my definition of a good, deep sleep.

While he has no answer to that, I realised something; A deep sleep does not amount to a good sleep.

I want to find a way to 'blackout' again. I want my 'real' good sleep

Review

2008-12-13T22:56:00.000+08:00

It's already December and 2008 is coming to an end.

It has been an eventful year, both for me and the rest of the world. However, that is not the purpose for this entry.

What I want to talk about is the goals that I had set earlier in the year.

If anyone remembers, or cared to remember, I had made 3 resolutions at the start of the year. Let me list them again for the benefit of everyone.

1) Be cash-rich, by having 10K in the bank
2) Embark on a journey of learning by enrolling in a part-time degree program
3) Participate and complete a half-marathon in Singapore

I am pleased to say that both objective 1 & 2 are achieved. However, objective 3 fell short. 2 out of 3 completed still does not sound that bad.

January is just round the corner. Pretty soon, I would join in with the millions that would make their New Year's resolutions.

Since objective 3 was not completed, I would add it to my list for 2009. Hopefully by the end of 09, I can proudly say that I have completed all my resolutions.

What about you?

Something about us

2008-11-01T17:21:00.000+08:00

This low tempo song from Daft Punk is one of the shortest, slowest creation from the techno group.

It lasts for 2 mins but its simple rhythm and lyrics hits home.

Describes exactly how I feel now

"Something About Us"

by Daft Punk

It might not be the right time
I might not be the right one
But there's something about us I want to say
Cause there's something between us anyway

I might not be the right one
It might not be the right time
But there's something about us I've got to do
Some kind of secret I will share with you

I need you more than anything in my life
I want you more than anything in my life
I'll miss you more than anyone in my life
I love you more than anyone in my life

accident

2008-10-30T21:40:00.000+08:00

Got into a minor accident few days back.

Stopped at a traffic junction with my foot on the brake pedal. However, I lost my concentration momentarily and 'kissed' the Audi TT in front of me...

Of all the cars...

What to do? Pay lor....

Went to buy 4D after but my car number came out jumbled....Argh!!!

Climbing to the Top!

2008-10-06T11:34:00.000+08:00

(my coursemates from rock climbing)

I finally managed to attend and complete my sports climbing course.

Now I am certified to climb!

Anyway, it was a whole day event and my limbs are numb and tired out. I could even floss properly.

It is a fun and tough workout. I hope I can increase my upper body strength after a few months of climbing.

I can't reach the top yet, but someday I will...

Meanwhile, climbing anyone?

Sometimes Love just ain't enough

2008-09-25T12:18:00.001+08:00

Was having breakfast with my grandma today. She seems weak as ever. I don't know how is she holding up. I guess I can never understand.

Over breakfast, she popped an incredible question, which had been asked many times by different individuals before....

She asked 'What did you break up with FL (ex-gf)?'

I have no idea why she have to bring up such a tough topic in the morning. I did tell her 3 weeks ago about the reasons....somehow it did not satisfy her curiosity....

I was dumbfounded, but I told her that it is due to incompatibility. (SOP answer)

Well, being old does give her some privilege...and she uses it to ask a follow up question.

'Incompatible? Then why are 2 of u together for 5 years?? You should know after a short while together....why drag so long?'

Argh!!! She was beginning to sound like the paparazzi....I kept quiet

She went on to add 'But I never see both of you quarrel before...'

Before she could finish her sentence...I did it for her

'You will never see us quarrel in front of you'

Phew...I got out of that one.

__________________________________________________

In the beginning, I thought that FL will be at the losing end from the breakup.

After a few weeks of being alone, I feel that the reverse is true.

When we broke up, I had no one around me. Yes, my friends were there, but it is a different type of support. I cannot really cry or breakdown, plus I had to maintain my pride as a man. I always told her everything. She knows me well. She knows how I tick.

She always had her loving family behind her. Her understanding and loving parents, (who I also lost when we broke up) and her irritating sister, whom she doted on.

I had nothing. My parents? I rather they don't come to me to borrow money. My aunties? They can barely cope with their own families.

My brother? He recently 'conned' me into buying a car for him...sian...Im in debt
I ultimately chose the car, a Subaru Impreza, mainly because that's her favourite car...
Buying a car is shitty, especially when I cannot fetch my love with it...

Well I did cry...that was 2 weeks ago, when I was so sick in camp, in between the smelly blanket and sheets, shivering. I cried because it's my stupid fault for being a stubborn and grumpy old man. That I had to push away a person so in love with me and cared for me so much.

Damn. Now I only feel empty. Especially when I can't find anyone to go out with.

Double damn. I just hope people will stop asking why....cause I dunno the answer as well.

Maybe sometimes love just ain't not enough.

What's new?

2008-09-05T01:00:00.000+08:00

Haven't been typing lately.

Been spending most of my time writing my assignments. Actually I shouldn't blog cause there is an assignment due soon, but I needed to update everyone.

A lot of things happened in the past 2 months. However, most are trivial except for one.

I am single again. The 5-year relationship between my gf and me has ended.

I am not so badly affected this time, due to several factors. Namely, my pursue of a degree, takes away much of my free time and thus, I haven't had time to feel sad.

Secondly, knowing the reason this time, enables me to accept reality compared to the previous breakup.

I haven't been the best guy a girl can get, and I am not the most romantic and sensitive guy around. It doesn't help that I took her for granted and never improve on myself.

As many people know, it's hard to get along with me, especially when you are my gf. I am stubborn and opinionated, got a bad temper and easily irritated.

I am still pursuing my degree and my career path is not laid. I do not know where tomorrow takes me. How can I promise to take care of her for life?

I am happy for her that she left me. In fact, if she finds a better man, which I think she will, I would congratulate her with all my heart.

I don't deserve her and she deserves better.

There is just too much flaws in me, and I am a very pessimistic person, who brings people's mood down.

However, she is taking it hard, even when she initiated the breakup.

The truth is, she loves me with all her heart and soul.

I know it all along, but I have nothing that I can show her that I love her too. Not even the promise to marriage.

Throughout these years, she has been shedding endless amount of tears for me. Yet I always place her behind my friends.

I am a fool

It's too late to turn over a new leaf now. I had my chances and I blew them.

I wish her all the best, sincerely.

And I will always love her...

time to think

2008-07-01T14:18:00.000+08:00

As the day draws closer to bonus day, I keep hearing my fellow colleagues with intentions of leaving the company.

It was the same last year, where there was an exodus after a huge payout.

In the months after the company made an announcement about it, I hear many people with their plans of leaving. All you have to do is just ask them this simple question, 'So are you leaving after bonus?' From then on, they will guide you through their plans for the future...

I had been asked many times before, but my own plan is taking up part-time studies.

However, it's that time of the year that you don't feel like slogging and just want to take a break from work, or even a change of environment.

My mind loves to wander and for discussion's sake, let me share with you what are the alternatives that I could possibly see myself in.

If I were to start my studies, I would need regular hours and also to be always around Singapore.

Thus, there are 2 or 3 perfect alternatives to this:

1) I would love to go back as a full-time staff at NUS, office of research, as a full-time staff. Firstly, NUS is very near to UniSim, I can easily get there after work for my classes. Secondly, everyone knocks off after 6, 5-day work week and hardly any overtime is required, so the stress level is low. Easy access to the computer and MSN, printers, copiers, email, the works. Perfect environment for studies.

2) I wouldn't mind going back to my 1st employer, SPH, as a customer service assistant. I loved the environment there. I wouldn't have left it in the first place, if not for the low pay and zero career prospects.
It reminded me very much of the Shire, home of the Hobbits in LOTR. Everyone is so friendly, caring and warm. Like a big family. You can have many meals or snacks in a workday, because the canteen is so accessible. We celebrate everyone's birthday, with cakes and presents. We cover each other's work. although it is 5 1/2 day work, it is again low stress level. Everyone knocks off at about 6pm or so. There is also a direct bus to bring me to my campus. I get home from work in 15mins. Hell, I can even jog home if I want to.

3) I love coffee, and I have been drinking coffee at cafes for donkey years now. I am always fascinated with the level of service and commitment at Starbucks. Compared to the other coffee companies in Singapore, Starbucks' service is light years away from the rest of the competition.

Actually before joining my present company, I had contemplated about joining as a barista. A barista is a magician with coffee, creating perfect concoctions to cheer people up and brightening their gloomy morning. Working as a part-time barista would go well with my studies, at the same time, doing what I love.

4) Of course there is the slight chance that I may win the million-dollar lottery... Then I will just drive to school and hangout at Starbucks, while meeting ex-colleagues from my previous workplace....:-)

Don't you agree that an imaginative mind is a wonderful thing to have?

What's your 'after-bonus' plans?

You don't have to be rich or clever to be pissed!

2008-06-13T16:43:00.000+08:00

I dun think I can finish this complaint in 200 words.

I just bought a wardrobe at IKEA and the reason why I choose to buy it at IKEA is that the company has always potrayed itself as a hassle-free, innovative and friendly service provider to the public.

Wanting to experience it for myself, I went down to IKEA Tampines on 8 Jun

Everything was well. I was satisfied with one of the displays that the section had, so I told the sales assistant that I wanted exactly the same specs as the display, except that I wanted a glass door.

She took the list from the display and type in the Purchasing Order and I paid up at the cash, before making my way to the transport service as I needed assembly and transport service.
I was surprise that I had to pay for assembly charges

I was even more surprise that the whole section was outsourced to a external vendor, PTC logistics.
We went through everything with regards to delivery. I went home a happy man.

Then the trouble started on the delivery day.

The delivery man was vigilant and told me that there was an error in the PO, resulting in a frame being shorter. He immediately called his company for assistance.
It appears that the IKEA sales staff had keyed in the item wrongly or that the display at the floor had the wrong specification all this while. Furthermore they told me that I had to pay for the difference in cost as apparently it is more expensive! WTF?!

Anyway, more trouble came about when they realised that the sliding door was unable to fit into the lift and I stayed on the 12th floor!

Again, they consulted the office and I spoke to them. I had 2 options, either come down to IKEA and select other door types Or I must pay the workers $40 to carry my doors up.

I was appalled, at the hassle of going down again
and even more so at the thought of having to pay extra for something that wasn't communicated to me in the first place.

I spoke to a rep from PTC and IKEA, told them that I feel that this is an unfair cost and should be bore by either PTC or IKEA, not the customer. No one gave me a satisfactory answer. Everyone seems to be passing the buck. The IKEA rep sounds like she is not interested at all.

I only had the 2 days off and since they were unable to assembly it on the day, my day is wasted. I had to go ahead and pay for the extra cost.

I also questioned about the wrong input of the sales order to the IKEA rep, although she did say she would investigate, no phone calls came through from IKEA for the rest of the ordeal.

2nd day and the PTC delivery men managed to come in the morning and start the setup. When they opened one of the frames, it was found to be cracked and another one chipped! I was disappointed at the quality of the products and the prospect of the assembly process being stalled again. I had to wait for another piece to be sent and by the time everything was done it was 6.30pm.

I feel that the terms and conditions are not clear enough and that both IKEA and PTC are not taking enough responsibilities in resolving the problem and making the customer satisfied.

Additional costs for cock-ups like this should be bore by them, not the customers. In this case I felt cheated, and I guess anyone in my shoes would feel the same too.

Time, which is so important to everyone, is wasted while I had to play the waiting game and could not get my errands done. My precious off days were wasted.

Prices were also very high, more than the average furniture store. I probably had a better deal if I custom-made a wardrobe at some other furniture store.

The only positive thing that came out of this ordeal was that the delivery men provided better service in fixing the problem at hand than any of the customer service reps that I encountered. They had initiative and were attentive to details while being honest to customers.

Probably shit happens everyday in the job, and they learnt how to deal with it better than anyone else.

I would most probably not purchase at IKEA anymore and advise my friends and colleagues not to do the same too.

I am, what our industry calls, a seriously mishandled and piss customer.

Erased!

2008-06-12T09:40:00.000+08:00

Some of you may have heard the news already; I have formatted my harddisk.

This resulted in the loss of ALL my sightseeing photos.

The only consolation is that I managed to upload some of it on my blog.

If not for cyberspace, my travels would be in vain.

Therefore, please enjoy the photos on my previous postings, because they are lost forever. :-(

Im not a Rice Boy

2008-05-21T13:29:00.000+08:00

I need to get fit.

What better way than to volunteer myself for SAF's fitness program. Lots of guys sweating it out together, rather than doing it alone. Always running in a group, doing push-ups in a group, stretching in a group. Just feels different.

Anyway, in order to effectively trim down and in cooperation with the fitness program, I decided to do away with my intake of rice, while cutting down on my overall carbo intake. Instead of rice, I take noodles and bread only. It has been a week since my regime started.

Oh yeah, I also refrain from taking carbonated soft drinks as they tend to have lots of sugar.

It is slowly working, as I am burning more energy and fats now. My tummy and love handles have been slightly trimmed.

Hope I can see drastic results after a month or so.

Watch this space...

New York, New York

2008-05-20T00:52:00.001+08:00

The Big Apple! I love it. The hustle and bustle, the skyscrapers, the neon lights, the big billboards, yellow cabs and the endless traffic.

There are so many famous things in NYC, food, places and people.

This was quite a fruitful trip as I managed to go to Liberty Island and visit the Statue of Liberty, the symbol of freedom.

Taking the famous NY subway, I made stops at Chinatown, Soho, as well as Times Square.

While walking, I also passed Madison Square Garden, CBS 's Late Show with David Letterman, Bubba Gum's restaurant, Broadway, MTV, Hersey's Chocolate shop and M&M's World.

The fickle weather was good to me for the first 2 days, though it got chilly and windy, and started pouring on the last day I was there.

Somehow my sightseeing clothing turned out to be a bit like Indiana Jones. No wonder people were staring at me...thinking I was some Indiana movie geek

Anyway, there are still so many places that I have not been in NYC. I may consider going again as a holiday destination.

Below is a list of places that I have yet to visit or activities I have not done.

1)World Trade Centre (Ground Zero)
2) UN HQ
3) Greenwich Village
4) Studio 54
5) Yankees Stadium
6) Central Park
7) Empire State Building
8) Watch 'Late Show' live
9) Watch 'Saturday Night Live' in person
10) Watch a play/stage show at Broadway

At the junction of Times Square without the Naked Cowboy

The world famous NY cheesecake, finally...

At Bubba Gum's restaurant

Outside the famous venue of CBS's Late Show with David Letterman

Still at Times Square

On the ferry to Liberty, the island not the fake ang mo supermarket by NTUC in Singapore

Isn't she amazing?

The original American Eagle

Moscow Calling

2008-05-01T22:50:00.000+08:00

Recently went to Moscow and did some sight-seeing.

This is the best time to visit Moscow, where temperatures are between 2-10 degrees Celsius.
The weather is not very cold now, but when the wind blows, it is still very chilly.

Moscow is the most expensive city to live in now. Food prices are crazy.

If you are thinking about visiting the Russian capital, do bring along lots of US dollars, as you have to change to Roubles over there. No Sing dollar accepted.

It would be good if you know a bit of Russian, as most people do not speak a word of English, and the signages look very alien.

One expression I learnt from the tour guide was, Thank you is pronounced as Spicy Bar in Russian.

Below are pictures taken at Red Square, in the Kremlin and armory, as well as some nice underground train stations

Enjoy!

The interior of a train station. Everything is in marble...Communism money used wisely...

Authentic Russian Bourse soup, with bread. Shiok ah....

Biggest canon in the world. The original '大炮仙'

This is not a mosque. On the contrary, it's a cathedral of the orthodox church

The Kremlin, the view from afar

We were asking them to take photos for us. Their understanding of English is so bad that they jumped into the picture with us...haha, just kidding

This is the venue of the Champions League Final this year, where stupid Liverpool won't be playing...haha...

The night view of Red Square

This is actually Moscow's oldest shopping mall, 100 years old

Name Calling

2008-04-03T15:07:00.000+08:00

Eversince we started school, our teachers have told us not to call other people 'names' or rather nicknames that would irritate or embarrass others.

However, this habit of name-calling among children have always been there, and probably will never go away. It is prominent when a group of children ostracize an individual or a few persons. Especially, if they stand out from the class in a very different way.

Most of us have heard of such names, some point in our school life; be it called to ourselves or to another person. More often, they sound unpleasant and most 'victim' would not want to be reminded of them. Names like, 'Potato Head', 'Fatty Bom-Bom', 'Giraffe', 'Donkey', 'Elephant' often used with association with the individual's physical attributes are used. Whereas names like, 'Greedy pig', 'Dopey', 'Cry-baby', 'Chatter-box' are used on character attributes.

In my years in school, I was also subjected to name-calling by classmates. 'Fatty Steamer', 'Donald Duck', 'Duckling'...the list goes on. I usually respond with my textbook landing on the person's back.

Generally, name-calling is bad, and discouraged among people, be it children or adults. However, I would like to highlight certain situations that I have come across as innovative, affectionate and projects a sense of belonging among people.

As a Singaporean male, most of the name-calling occurred in the Army. Every possible nickname under the sun will pop out, one way or another. We don't have cool nicknames like 'Maverick', 'Cougar' and 'Wizard' like in the Top Gun movie. Singaporean army nicks are more localise, just like our food, they are Uniquely Singapore.

Examples are ; 'BoBo King' (meaning one who cannot aim and misses the target even it is 10m in front of him), 'LoBo King' (meaning one who always skives; while adding the person surname like Chan as in 'Lobo Chan', will make it more unique and intimate), 'Starplayer' (in a sarcastic way, as this person usually causes the downfall of the group), 'Gan Cheong Spider' (Gan Cheong is Hokkien for being nervous, and spider is to describe the person having 8 limbs but still cannot cope), 'F**K spider (same meaning as fly kite), Chao Keng Kiat (similar meaning to Lobo King but this guy uses all means to feign injuries to get himself out of things), 'On the ball' (used on individuals who are perfectionist and strict about everything), Kun Xin ( meaning 'God of Sleep', refers to one who can sleep anywhere, anytime, anyplace)

Those names which I have encountered and are pretty unique are the following:

1) Ah Fat (used on one of our more well-rounded friend)
2) XP (at the time when Windows XP was launch, XP stands for xiao pang, literally meaning Little Fatty)
3) Potato Head (there was this guy who wasn't very good in speaking Mandarin, and was speaking English most of the time)
4) Dutch (this poor and confused guy who had to come back from Holland just to serve NS)
5) Starplayer (as above)
6) Koo Jui (meaning water in Hokkien, as this guy's name is pronounced in the same way)
7) Kup Po ('frog' in Hokkien, due to a teacher's mispronounciation of his name)
8) Chilli Padi (used on a very short and argumentative individual)
9) 'Siberia' (not used on a person, but on my school courtyard, where students were 'exiled' for not doing there homework and had to stay there with their desks and chairs for the duration of the class)
10) Koropok (not the prawn crackers but for a ritual where unsuspecting individuals are pulled into a corner and punched and kicked for a brief moment, usually done on birthday boys or during intervals between lessons)

Coincidently, most of these name-callings happened during my time in a boys' school and in the army, where there were zero females.

We never did kill anyone who used names, but just made up some names to return the favour. After a while, calling their nicknames became a habit and has stuck with some of them ever since. Especially, when it brings back fond memories and occasional chuckles of the fun times we had.

Those were the days.

I guess calling people names are not all that bad after all.

Sky Diving Trip

2008-03-11T23:02:00.000+08:00

I have not been writing for 2 months and it's a pretty long time by my standards.

Supposedly, this July I will start my communications degree and I hope this can be a platform to help me with my studies.

Anyway, that's beside the point. Many things took place during these 2 months and it is a good time to document it.

Firstly, I was in Christchurch, New Zealand just after the Chinese New Year. The first thing that came to my mind when I got my schedule was SKYDIVING! Whoo! Finally I got the chance to do it.

Anyway, just sidetrack a bit, if you happened to plan to go New Zealand for your holidays, I recommend it with 2 thumbs-up! Beside sky-diving, you can do bungee, river-rafting, hot-air balloon for outdoor. If you just want to drive round the peaceful countryside, you can pay a visit to its many vineyards and enjoy a glass of wine. Also for fans of Lord of the Rings, they have a tour where you can visit the various sets that was used for the movie.

Back to skydiving. I checked out the site on the web and it looks pretty interesting. Furthermore, I have got a friend who is doing it with me. Nothing was going to stop us now...nothing except bad weather...

Yup, of all days, it had to be on the day when I decided to take the plunge. It was very, very cloudy. The sky was shrouded with dark clouds. We decided to call the company and ask them to check on the weather conditions. Bad. We were told to hold on for at least an hour before they check on the conditions again. All of us were very excited, but the excitement gave way to disappointment after we heard the news.

An hour past and we got a phone to say that we will proceed with the jump as the clouds were clearing. Yay! The company sent a van to pick us up from the hotel, as it was a distance away.

When we got to the airfield, we met the jump master and he gave us a crash course on the positions we had to adapt during the jump. We had to keep out heads tilted backwards and our legs and bodies to remain arched to facilitate the fall. 'Just like a banana' he said.

Then we were supposed to watch a video of another sky diver, so that we can have an idea on how it worked. After the video, everyone was psyched, ready to go, but not before signing the indemnity form. Yes, you can't blame anyone if u don't return in one piece! I never really thought much of it. :-)

We put on our jumpsuits, gears and stuff. Our individual jump masters came to inspect and help us with the harnesses. Although we were doing tandem jumps but u still got to be sure of safety.

We went ahead, 2 of us, in tow with our own cameraman and jump master. 6 of us got into a small propeller plane. We felt like sardines in a can.

To reach 12000ft, the small plane took at least 15mins to reach that altitude. Meanwhile, I wasn't really enjoying the feeling of being in a can. I was really uncomfortable and hoping that I could jump out of the plane as soon as possible.

Finally, we reached the desired altitude and the doors were opened. the strong winds greeted us and suddenly I was gripped by the idea that it was time to jump. I had mixed feelings and random thoughts just came into my head. As I was second to jump, I saw how my friend fall out of the plane. It just happened in a split second, no time to think or react. Poof! She was gone.

My turn and my mind was in a blank. However, I was game and ready to jump. Then suddenly, I dived into the blueness of the sky!

I cannot describe the feeling and the rush when I jumped out. It was just exhilarating. Watch my video on Youtube and you will understand.

After just 45 seconds, our parachutes opened and we landed in the field. Short but the memories will be long-lasting.

I was fortunate enough to be the 1st batch in my group to jump, as the weather worsen towards the end. The last batch didn't managed to jump at all, as conditions were deemed unsafe.

We got our videos and photos and return to our hotel, happy and contented.

Writing about this makes me want to go for it again. Too bad we don't have the space to do it in Singapore, if not I am sure to sign up to get the license to do it on my own.

Anyway, I would suggest to everyone, to do it when you are young. It is an experience you won't forget.

Youtube video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZG8mr_T4HG0

Famous people....

2008-01-28T19:21:00.000+08:00

I found this fun activity on the web....interesting, try it yourself

Not very accurate but it's all in the name of fun

Happy New Year!

2008-01-16T16:02:00.000+08:00

I haven't made any posts since last year (hehe...) so here's wishing a very belated Happy New YEar to everyone!

Im still early for Chinese New Year, but what the heck! Gong Xi Fa Cai! Have a Prosperous and healthy Chinese New Year!

New year always comes with new resolutions. Which usually would be abandon within a month...
However, if u make the resolution into a short-term goal, I think it would be more effective and many of us will make the effort to uphold and achieve it.

Choose wisely what you want to achieve and do not have too many goals at one time.

I suggest a shortlist; which I am going to make now.

Something achievable within a year span would qualify for a short-term goal.

Here goes...

1) I wanna save 10K in addition to my bank account (realise that saving money is too generic, putting a figure would really help focus)

2) I wanna enroll in a degree course of my choice and start this year

3) I wanna stay fit and healthy ( not specific enough) I want to train for 21km run and do it again this year (better)

Just 3 to start. Achievable, simple and realistic goals.

Come Jan 2009, I hope that I would have been able to achieve the above and review it on this blog.

What about u?

disgruntled

2007-11-27T11:14:00.000+08:00

Im am so frustrated.

Now working in a big company, I enjoy the perks, both monetary and in terms of benefits.
However, I feel that there is too much red tape and that the size of the company is inverse with the level of empathy towards employees.

Recently, I have discovered that I am suffering from a gastro-intestinal condition and I am pretty concerned about it. I went to see a specialist after a recommendation from my GP. They put me on medication and I even did a scope to see what is inside me.

The scope revealed a lump in my intestines, although it is benign, doesn't offer much consolation when u see the pictures taken. My doctor adds to my misery saying that he cannot be 100% sure that it will go away for the moment.

Well, the medications doesn't work and this condition has been bothering me for a long time now.

Finally when I am due for medical review, I have to work on the same day. Instead of resolving everything with a quick medical certificate, I had decided to consult the company on allowing me to take urgent leave for the review.

Alas, the procedure and time that is going to be spent discourages people. There is only 1 administrative officer on duty each day and other that seeing him, there is no others in the office who is going to share his workload. When he goes for lunch or something, everyone steers clear. When you try to call him, no one answers. Maybe they should take his phone away from him.

What makes it different from other companies is that we only go back to office when we work; and we don't work everyday. For me to travel to the office just to get a simple administrative request through will often take half a day. What ever happened to the Internet, telecommunications, computers....etc.
Technology has taken a step back for bureaucracy.

More often than not, I have heard of incidents where my colleagues tried asking for help in taking urgent leave and certain administrative requests. Most of the time they have difficulty and problems dealing with the administrative officers.
These people never realised that they are actually the image and the face of the company to their internal customers; the employees.

By putting up a cold, icy and hard front, employees like me view the company as a stiff and without empathy. Long-term exposure to this factors will cause resentment and soon employees would be thinking about their job options.

If you try all sorts of means to keep your consumers, business partners with you, why not use the same approach towards the people who matter; your employees, internal customers who pour their heart and soul, putting in their small contributions everyday to make a difference?

Anyway, I believe this is a human resource and mismanaging problems. It usually comes right from the top and spirals down.

In comparison, the smaller firms that I have worked with, though less glamorous and with lesser perks and benefits, shows more empathy. When the workforce is smaller, everyone has a face, a character, and a background that the boss understands. Everyone has their problems and needs, but the boss usually listens.

Yes, usually, the smaller firms try to work you to death...but at least you pick up the ropes much faster. You also have your own identity...the boss knows you and you are not some guy in marketing or accounts...

I think one day I would love to go back to working in a small firm...not that I missed working myself to death, but more for learning the ropes and building relationships with business partners and customers.

While I am still stuck to my job here, I better bear with it and persevere... and keep on bitchin'
:-)

Oh yeah, my call was finally through but the guy told me to take an MC because I have no more leave to take...

CRAP...

story

2007-11-10T02:33:00.000+08:00

I have been thinking about writing for the longest time. Not only blogging, but my own fictitious novel.

I know my level of English is pretty elementary, and that my writing skills are nothing to shout about. My last book was 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo, which was about 2 months back. Since then I have been reading Chinese language books by Louis Cha, mostly about ancient China and kung-fu fighting.

I love the way authors spin their tale. It is as intricate as a spider-web and as spell-binding as voodoo. I was sucked in by the storyline, the plot tickling my every senses. It gives me great satisfaction to finish the book, whether or not the ending sucks.

Anyway, the prospect of me actually publishing my own novel seem to be quite impossible. That is why I thought of using my blog as an avenue to write my own fiction.

I have the plot, but I just need to build on it.

Watch this space.

sleepless

2007-10-12T01:53:00.000+08:00

Here I am, in the middle of the night, unable to sleep.

Although I had been up the whole day working, my tired body cannot overcome my mind, which is filled with endless thoughts.

It has been 2 days since the big argument had taken place. I did not feel the crunch until I was on flight.

Suddenly, emptiness sneaked in and caught me unprepared.

How do you remedy a problem, when the disease is actually, you....

How do you tell a girl you love her, when you are the cause of her pain....

How do you hold on to her, when you are losing grip yourself...

How are you gonna spend your life with her, knowing she will never be happy...

I shouldn't be writing about this, I wished the title was 'Preparations for my holiday' or 'Melbourne trip part 2' or 'Arsenal Rocks'.

It is not possible, not in the mood that I am in. Lousy with a capital 'L'

It does not help that I am hungry too. Damn!

Sleepy but yet sleepless....what a drag....

Melbourne Holiday - part 2 with pics

2007-10-04T01:09:00.000+08:00

Twelve Apostles & Apollo Bay at Great Ocean Road

My private domain

The'Batmobile'

Hot stove on a cold night....plus great BBQ food!

Kids

2007-09-16T16:05:00.000+08:00

Here's an interlude before I continue with my Melbourne Holidays.

Many of you may or may not know this; I love children.

I love it when they smile and look at you, especially when they want to play and when they want your attention.

I love it when they do something out of pure innocence and naivety, not knowing if it's funny to us adults.

This video is an example of why I love kids and want to have one...:-)

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/74

Melbourne Holiday - part 1

2007-09-10T13:54:00.000+08:00

Just came back on leave and spent some time in Melbourne. As my friend is working there, I thought it could be a good time to hang out and do something different. I told him, 'It's my Birthday so you do the planning!' Boy, it could not have been planned better.

I told him that I wanted to spend time driving around in the outskirts of Melbourne away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I was not interested in sight-seeing like a tourist.

I booked the flight on the morning of 24th and the night before I came back from Taiwan in the evening. Many friends wanted to celebrate my birthday, but it was too tight to squeeze everyone in. Apologies, my friends.

It was kinda like a mad rush for me, as I immediately got changed at the airport and took a cab to Copthorne Hotel. My friends made arrangements to have dinner at this Japanese pancake place called 'Nanja, Manja'

The rain didn't make the traffic smoother and I was fortunate not to get caught in the heavy downpour. Dinner was a DIY event with a large flat metal hot plate in the centre of the table. I call it 'DIY teppanyaki'

I was shocked when the bill came; a whopping $400 dollars! More importantly, my friends split the bill among themselves and did not include me. I felt bad but they insisted.

Left the restaurant and soon after another called me out for a drink. I wanted to finish half the bottle that I had left at a pub the week before. Rush home for a quick shower and went straight to Boat Quay.

Being a Wednesday night, the atmosphere was not as good as a Friday or Saturday night. When my friend came by, I had finished half of what I had left the week before.

Then we hopped to another pub and continued after we finished the bottle. Drank till I couldn't take it anymore. It was 3 am and I had to be at the airport in 4 hours..

____________________________________________________________________

Made it to the airport in time, thanks to 2 morning calls from my equally 'stoned' friend.

Tried to check in my luggage, only to be inform that I needed to apply a visa for travelling to Australia. Oh no!

Fortunately, I managed to settle it in less than 30 minutes at the airport customer service counter. Phew!

Took the 1st flight out to Melbourne, although there were many people, I managed to get a good seat.

Didn't eat the 1st meal, due to the fact that I still feel drunk... haha

It was interesting experience, because this is the first time that I did a role reversal after working for a year in the airlines.

Anyway I reached the Melbourne in the evening and proceeded to take the airport transfer to the city. When I reached the terminal, my friend and his gf was waiting for me there.

It has been nearly 4 to 5 months since I last saw him. He got a new apartment and we catch up a bit while walking back to his place. He told me that I was lucky as his roommate is back in Singapore and I could crash at her room, as he had previously spoke to her about it.

As it was getting late, we had dinner at the restaurant in the casino not too far away.

Although his gf suggested the 2 of us should visit the strip club, since it's my birthday, I politely turn down the offer, as I can see that the 2 of them are pretty tired.

I checked with my friend on the itinerary for the next few days. 'It's gonna be a lot of driving!' he said. Turns out it was not a hour's drive as I thought, instead it was gonna be 3 hours!

We were suppose to go to this place called The Great Ocean Road. Where it is near the coast and we were gonna stay in a rented house. It is basically close to nature. Well, I kept my fingers crossed...

Stay tuned for the next part....

Stereotypes

2007-08-07T19:50:00.000+08:00

Human beings love to judge one another. They don't like the idea of being judged but they like to play judge, to pass their judgment, to play God.

They like to judge a person by their looks, making false 'accusations' about their character, they way they walk, talk, behave. This judgment, be it bad or good, sometimes even extend to the subject's friends, family, people around him/her. E.g. 'He looks so ratty, like a thief, I bet all his friends are of the same' This type of judgment is what we call Stereotyping...and it can be deadly, because things are not always what they seem. Like the shy clerk at the office, who ended up being caught for embezzling millions of dollars from the company, or the girl-next-door who turns out to be a slut. Ok I am being extreme here, but you get the drift.

I am also guilty about stereotyping. I also paid a price for it recently.

A few days ago, I was in Tokyo...well not exactly the city area but nearer to the airport in a small town in Chiba, Narita. It was a short stay and we were staying as close to the airport as possible, to avoid the traffic in downtown Tokyo.

I was shopping on my own and running some errands. It was the summer sale and although there was only a small mall near the hotel, it was good enough for me.

I spoke a bit of Japanese and I am able to read most prints, however, my level is really mediocre and not enough to get by. When you think Japan, you think of electronic goods, kawaii (cute) stuff like Hello Kitty and sushi. Well, yours truly thought the same, and since most of these things originated from the Land of the Rising Sun, the collection must be extensive and the prices cheap. Not so.

You see, I, along with many people, have already cast our stereotypes. That the people in this country were very polite, courteous and sex-crazed...:-)

I didn't get to find out about the sex-crazed part...but I found that I was very wrong about the perception 'All Japanese people are polite'

I had ventured into this clothing store and seeing clothing on sale for a fraction of the price, I was delighted as it was time to buy some clothing for the hot summer. I decided not to converse to the person in Japanese, as I felt ashamed of my poor command of the Japanese Language.

I spoke in English and gestured to the sales assistant that I had wanted to try out the few pieces of clothing in my hand. The sales assistant understood and led me to the changing room, but he did not utter a single word, so much so that I thought he was born with a speech defect. (Service staff are used to uttering Japanese phrases, even when you do not understand them)

When I came out of the changing room, I had wanted to get another piece in a different size, and when I tried to get his attention by saying 'Excuse me...' Another customer was walking in the same direction of the cashier, the sale staff just gave me a 'halt' sign with his hand, as though he was directing traffic, and served the paying customer first. Then he greeted the customer at the cashier in his polite Japanese. I was put off at this gesture but at least I know he wasn't dumb.

I walked around the store and was waiting for him to approach me after settling the cash register, but he never came back. Instead, he went back to folding and arranging his clothing on the rack, completely ignoring my existence! Well then, I thought to myself, maybe the clothes I was buying was too cheap? I picked another 2 and gestured to him that I want to try them. I also asked him whether there was a smaller size for the previous clothing. He replied in his broken English that all the size are displaced.

There was a sign outside the changing room saying 'No shoes in changing room', but I absent-simplemindedly forgot about it, and went in with my shoes. From afar he shouted to me 'Excuse me, no shoes pls!' Hmmm, I wondered so he is rather observant, but how come he never notice me in the shop....

Anyway I paid up and left the shop. I was disgusted at his service, because of 2 things.

1) He is very rude and any shop assistant in Singapore can match and overtake his standard
2) He dare to call himself a Japanese? He is a living example of a black sheep

Coming out of the shop, I had to break my own stereotype that Japanese people were always polite and that there service were always tip-top. Myth number 1 dispelled.

Later, I recalled that I read and heard about some stories that Japanese dislike foreigners or 'gaijin' as they call us. They would only treat us poorer than their own kind. After this experience, I was observing other Japanese, it was true to a certain extend, but why? Maybe someone can share their experience.

Then I proceed to the supermarket and shop for some groceries, as well as food for tomorrow morning.

I looked around the sushi counter, many boxes of sushi and sashimi greeted me, and they were at a reasonable price. I decided to buy 2 boxes for breakfast.

In the morning, I ate the sushi that I kept in the fridge last night. After a few bites, I realised that they were not tasty at all, but I still had to finish them, as it would be hours before I could eat again.

All was well and I was halfway back to Singapore. After serving all my passengers, I felt weird in my stomach. It was like someone twisting my intestine and it was quite painful. I tried to bear with it and carried on with the rest of my duties. I could feel the pain coming to me and my face was turning pale. My forehead broke out in cold sweat and I knew that this was my limit.
I told my supervisor and took the medicine that I had for stomach cramps. 'Shit, not again!' I thought to myself, as my last flight I had fainted from a gastric problem. *See previous post

I was having problem standing and I bent over at the galley top. Everyone could see I was in pain and all was concerned. My supervisor told me to take a rest until we were close to Singapore.

I felt unusually cold and I knew it was not normal. Then my stomach began to churn and I had to visit the lavatory. Not only I had diarrhea, but I also vomited. It was so bad that I was too weak to stand up, and only managed to do so after a few attempts to pull myself up.

When they came to see if I was doing ok, I was shivering and half-dazed due to the intense pain. They insisted to page for a doctor on board, and sure enough, came 2 doctors.

They took my temperature and found that I was running a fever. Then they took my blood pressure, pulse...etc. The Swedish doctor told them not to worry and there was nothing serious. She left. The Japanese doctor was more worried and wanted to administer a jab to help me with my stomach pain. I was very glad he did, because I felt like I was gonna die any minute with the increasing pain.

Anyway, after the plane landed, I was brought to the clinic and put on the drip. The GP made a decision to send me to the nearest hospital in an ambulance.

Fortunately, my condition had stablised when I reached the hospital, but my fever was still on. I was surprised that they did not ward me and sent me home. During the night, I was burning hot. Only by repeatedly consuming Panadol and cooling my forehead with a cold towel, did my temperature come down in the morning.

This costly experience, told me never to stereotype about food as well. Japan, being a country with very high hygiene standards, was still incapable of keeping food fresh. When I told everyone that I fell sick from taking sushi in Japan, everyone was shocked. Why? Because all of them has the same stereotype thinking that I had. It was unheard of, but it happened. Even as I am typing now, my stomach is still having cramps from the aftermath of my food poisoning.

I hope that this post was insightful and everyone would benefit from it. I still love Japan and still rank it as my favourite destination, but now I take everything with a pinch of salt. I would think twice before making another stereotype now....

Shock of a lifetime

2007-08-02T00:03:00.000+08:00

Remember when I posted about a friend's situation a few months back, when he lost his memory? Something similar happened to me a few days back, though it was a flash, it really shocked me.

I was flying to back to Singapore from HK after a nitestop over. In the midst of working, I was offered a cup of 7up by one of my colleague. As I have not had a drink for an hour or so, I gladly received the offer with thanks. I gulped down my drink and continued to work.

However, just seconds after I downed the drink, I felt a sharp pain just below my sternum. Usually it happens where I eat too fast, but it would go away as fast as it occurred. This time, the pain was prolonged and it left me struggling. I pressed the part that was in pain but I could do nothing. My vision started to dim and I was blacking out. I was trying to grab hold of something, then....

The next thing I know, I saw this face in front of me. I was thinking, why is he waking me up? It took me a while to realise it was my superior! I shook my head and realised that I was not sleeping in my bed but on the galley floor! It shocked me, as I don't remember that I was working.

My supervisor and colleagues gathered around me, all with a look of concern. I had no idea what had happened. They told me to sit down and refrain from standing. It was then that they told me that I had fainted and hit my head on the edge of a compartment. They were taken aback as it happened too sudden.

I was in disbelief when they used ice and press it against my head, apparently I had a bump on my head which I had no knowledge of. It didn't even feel pain until they pressed against it. The only pain was felt in my gastric area, just below my sternum.

While I was on the seat (I was told to rest and not work for the duration of the flight), I was coming to terms and trying to deduce what had happened. I had sufficient rest, and something to eat before the flight, so there was no way that fatigue or lack of food became possible reasons.

My only recollection was the drink and the pain that followed. It was surprising as this was the first time it had happened to me. The fact that this happened when I am in a good state of health worries me even more. It reminded me of news reports of healthy people who suddenly collapse and die without rhyme or reason.

One of my colleague reiterated that I did not fall flat but instead took a delayed fall, maybe due to my hands trying to grab hold of something. Another one told me that when I was unconscious, my hands and legs shook like I was having fits. This observation worried me more.

For the rest of the flight, I took it easy and slowed down while eating and drinking. The bump seemed to be a small abrasion and blood had clotted. When the plane reached Singapore, I went to the clinic and had a GP assess my condition. My blood pressure, pupil reaction, temperature, heart beat, stomach were examined. I even went through an ECG. Fortunately, all the results did not showed any negative symptoms. However, I was scheduled to go to the hospital for a scope examination on the following week.

Until today, I am still having the pain in my gastric regions. It would be more prominent when I consume food or drinks. After this I am more cautious about my body and would slow down in my eating habits.

This incident proves that no one is invincible and that people can fall any day, regardless of your health conditions. You can run the fastest, jump the highest, but you cannot escape from Fate...

Johannesburg

2007-07-28T14:55:00.000+08:00

Africa; wild, exciting, unexplored and unknown. That was my perception before I went to Johannesburg, one of South Africa's busy city.

Yes, I heard of the dangers, where armed robberies take place on a regular basis and people get killed, in this place where lives are cheap. Well, you don't really have to look that far away, take a look at JB

I made plans to do some sightseeing and I did hear about the safari tours that they have in JNB. Quite exciting stuff I thought. Although the tours were deemed to be pretty expensive, I decided that this would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed. Armed with my USDs and African Rands, I took to the skies.

Without further ado....

3 little lion cubs on a lazy afternoon, and it's moments like this when you think they looked like kittens...until...

Then this little guy started snarling at us....scary

Which is why I am this far away from them...

Dun talk abt the bigger cats lah...:-)

Sun City's most beautiful hotel - The Lost City

Nobody crosses this bridge!

A very beautiful golf course at Sun City

Behold the only animals that we dare to come close...

This little guy seem to say 'Kiss my ass' when I took his photo...

Anyway that wraps my tour up. However, there are still a few other attractions that I didn't get the chance to go. Like Pilansberg, Kruger National Park.... where you can drive thru the safari, getting close to the animals, do dune buggy riding and archery.

Well then, maybe the once-a-lifetime experience may have to be twice or thrice-a-lifetime now...

Athens, Greece

2007-07-19T21:42:00.000+08:00

Greece, the land of Greek Mythological characters like Hercules, Athena, Zeus,
Achilles, Leonidas.
Home of the 300 Spartans, AEK Athens, Olympiakos, and Panathiaikos, 3 top Greek football teams...

I had a chance to travel to Athens this summer, a period where the weather is warm and also during the tourist season.

Here are some photos I have taken, enjoy

The Acropolis

Greek Fare
&
'Dong Su Hua'

Greek Grafitti & an old church in the city center

A view of Acropolis from the city center

The flea market at Plaka

Greek houses

More graffitti

Me at the foot of the Acropolis

The original Olympic stadium, no frills

The remains of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, King of the Gods

Quote of the Day

2007-07-15T13:37:00.000+08:00

Many people say I don't blog often enough, some people say my posting are 'lo sou' or long-winded.

After some thinking, I decided to do what many of my favourite anime series like to do.

From now on, in between postings, I should come up with something called 'fillers'. Basically they are supposed to fill up space between the longer stories or the main story line. Fillers usually have no relationship between the main plot, they are just stand alone or one-offs.

It starts now.

The quote of the day is 'Don't complain about aircraft food when u never tasted combat rations!'

24 hours

2007-06-20T00:07:00.000+08:00

Each day has 24 hours. We always complain that it is never enough. Work, sleep, eat, play. I used to complain about it. When I was working in the events line, my best day was to schedule 4 appointments within a working day. As I didn't drive, 4 appointments was optimum. I guess planning is essential to fulfilling a person's life.

Anyway, I was on leave for 2 weeks, so I took the opportunity to do my lasik. As I was recuperating at home, I didn't plan to do anything, so some of my days are just plain slack. However something took place within the last 2 day that made it a very eventful end to my week.
(Names have been changed to protect the identity of the parties involved)

Friday, 15th Jun 07, 19oohrs:

I was meeting J, C & X for dinner in town and probably for a movie too. Well it has been a while since I met the girls and I was looking forward to catching up.

I was early as usual and I call J to see if she is in town. Seems like everyone is late. Found out X was in Kino, so I made my way up to meet him.

I had met X last week before my lasik and a few days prior, as he stays near my mum's place.

X said that he will not be joining us for the Fantastic 4 movie, as he thinks it's not good.

We met J at Takashimaya. Seems like C is late, J said that we should decide on a place to eat. I suggested Tonkichi, but when we got there, the queue was damn long. Not wanting to wait, J suggested we eat at Angus House, which has good steak.

Angus House has exorbitant prices, it reminded me of Lawry's that I had 5 years ago. Although I could afford it now and I do like good food, it still 'hurts' me to be spending this much on a meal.

X commented that he went to Angus House in Jakarta and that the restaurant's furnishing and decor is exactly the same as the old in Takashimaya. I am not surprised. After doing 6 months in Flex and overseeing some work, I know that franchise chains actually have a book of guidelines in the way they furnish the shops, letterings, and all the nitty gritty details. They can't stray from it, as it would upset the main franchiser and it may result in them losing the whole franchise.

We decided to have some red wine, thinking it should be a good accompaniment to the steak. J asked the captain to recommend a red that is not too dry.

I had tenderloin and X ordered sirloin. J had lobster. C who joined us later had some salmon. She claimed that she was supposed to be vegetarian on that day and she said that she cannot take meat. Obviously, fish was not considered a meat to her.

The food came and we tucked in. Steak was good but not worth that amount of money. The red wine, instead of complementing the food, drowned the taste of it. Damn it!

After the meal I was still hungry, J had to leave to pick up her bf, who was joining us for the movie. X excused himself and went to the loo. He came back asking if he had taken a long time. I told him 'no' and we left the restaurant.

2100-2130hrs:

I was buying Takoyaki at the basement. and we still had some time before we were supposed to meet J and her bf. X looked a bit puzzled and kept asking us about what happened just now. 'What did we do just now?' and 'Did I embarrass myself or offended anyone?' was repeated at least 10 times. At first we were amused, then it got to a point that C became frustrated and recorded his questions on her cell phone. When he asked again, she replayed it to him, so that he may realise he had been repeating the same questions. However, it still did not help. He seems to be unable to register in his brain. His condition seems to have worsen as his memory started to go blank from the time he met us till after dinner. We started to freak out. He too was freaking out as we tried to explain to him the situation.

When we met J and her bf, we quickly told her about X. She thinks that he may have a virus or something. X pulled me to one side and continued his 'interrogation'. He later claimed that he does not even remember meeting J and her bf. When I told him J left earlier at the dinner, he was saying 'Dinner? Where? With who?'
He seem like he went missing in time as everything was a blank. I feel like this is not the real X, as though as a clone was in place. It feels like a plot out of the movie, too dramatic, too scary.

2200hrs:

We were walking towards Cineleisure for our movie, X was asking us what movie we were watching. In view of his situation, I repeated to him again. 'Ok, I will join you guys' he said
C and I looked at each other in total disbelief; X had earlier told us that he didn't wanted to watch Fantastic Four and we went ahead with the booking. Now we were in a dilemma because there was only 20mins more till showtime and it was the opening week for the movie. I knew that we would never be able to get him a seat but we went to the booth and tried anyway.

True enough the tickets were sold out. We were in a fix now; we want to catch the movie but were afraid of X's worsening condition. In the end, he claimed that he was alright and he will be going over to Borders, instead of going home. He assured us that he knew the way and that he would call us if necessary. We parted ways.

2330-0000hrs:

In the midst of watching the movie, X called me. He kept asking the same questions as before. I excused myself and went out to speak to him on the phone.

I asked about his whereabouts and he said he was on a bus on the way home, but he did not know how he got on to it. He doesn't even remember the train ride from Orchard to Yishun but he was positive he took it.

I was worried, so I urge him to go home take a shower and try to relax. However, he was more concerned about his actions when he started to have this short-term memory loss thingy. I reassured him that he did not embarrass himself or us, and he definitely did not offend anyone while he was with us. However, I told him, that I am not sure what happened during the 2 hours that we were in the movie.

"You are in a movie now? With who?" he was puzzled. This piece of information seemed new to him when he just parted ways with us less than 2 hours ago.

Nearing the end of the movie, he called me 4 more times, although I didn't pick it up, I was anxious to call him back immediately once the lights are on.

"Hello X, are you alright? Where are you now?" I asked him. Again he asked me the same questions, afterwhich, I learnt that he was on a cab headed to a medical centre. He asked me where is the nearest hospital, because he was a bit worried now and wanted to seek medical attention. I agreed with him and told him to go to Tan Tock Seng's A&E department.

J, C were worried and asked if we all should be there. X called again and ask me which hospital to go...I knew we had to go. I told him to tell the cabby to take him to TTSH A&E and we will meet him there.

0030-0230hrs

J, C and I arrived at the hospital. Jess's bf had left and he took the car, so C has to drive her back later.

Anyway we saw X waiting in the queue inside the room and were trying to get his attention. He looked dazed and I called him on his mobile. He turned around and saw us. As the A&E dept has a strict policy of each patient having only 1 companion during consultation, I volunteer to sit in with him. J and C were seated outside, waiting anxiously.

After a while, we were just waiting for his name to be called. There were many others waiting at this hour and from past experience, I knew that it's gonna be a long wait, so I told J and C to go home and rest. They came straight from work for dinner and they had a long day. I was fortunate to be on leave for the past week and would not be working until the day after. They agreed and they appreciated my efforts. X also thank them from coming and apologised for causing inconvenience to them.

As I stayed with him, he was still trying very hard to piece together what had happened. He kept asking me questions and I was like his personal time machine, piecing together what had happened. It seems to me that his condition had worsen, as he is now asking questions like 'What year, month, date is today, what day is today?', 'Is BroadcAsia over?', 'Who did we do just now?', 'Who did we had dinner with?', 'Where did we dine?', 'What is my profession?', 'Which company I am working for now?'...the list goes on. I was shocked, and after a while, I kinda got a bit impatient. He sounded like a broken record (though by no fault of his) and I also sounded like one myself, as I kept repeating and repeating the answers.

He didn't even know how he got here. Fortunately, he has a habit of keeping his receipts. When he took them out, I sorted them and used them as proof of the actions he did. My goodness, if it wasn't for the receipts, I wouldn't have known that he drew cash to pay C for the dinner, he came by taxi and paid the cabby with his credit card, he also paid for the A&E consultation fees.

In this furry of events, I rationalise with him as though I am a detective and went through the clockwork of things, as though as I was on the CSI team. It was exhausting but I knew I had to be there.

At about 2am, it was finally our turn to see the doctor. The doctor analysed his condition and wants him to be warded. He needed to go for a CT scan immediately. While waiting for him to be warded, YK called me and ask me if I am available for supper. I told him I was at Tan Tock Seng and if he came over, we could go for supper at Balestier. He agreed and was at the hospital in a short while. I told X that I had to go and asked him to call or text me his ward number. I left shortly after.

After supper, I tried to call him but his phone was off. Thinking that he must be warded and going for the scan now, I returned home, hoping to give him a call in the morning.

o400hrs:

I was woken up by the ringing of my mobile phone. The hospital called me, as I had given my contact when I accompanied X. They told me to call his family. However, as I told them that I do not have his house number, I couldn't make the call. I also asked them which ward was he in. I was given a number and told to call later to check before I popped by. I went back to sleep.

1100hrs:

I was woken up by C's sms; She was concerned and wanted an update. I called her and told her that I will be going to the hospital once I washed up. Although she could not join me, I assured her that I will keep her and J updated.

1130-1700hrs:

Took a cab over and saw X on his bed. He look ok to me, not as dazed as the night before. I apologised for not coming back after supper, but he couldn't remember that as well. However, he assured me that he is better today and more things are settling in his memory.

Unfortunately, he still had no recollection of what happened the day before, from dinner until he was warded. The only thing that he remembered was a pretty lady medical intern, attending to him in the morning. From that I knew he was definitely better...haha

His father came over and we had a short chat. It seems that X had called home 4 times the previous night but he had no recollection. His father was saying that a similar incident occurred to him when he was younger. Could it be a case of heredity memory loss, triggered by alcohol consumption? X defended his case by saying that it could not have been alcohol, because he had consumed larger quantities before and this never occurred. It must have been something else.

He told me that the CT scan revealed that there was a higher than usual amount of white blood cells and that the doctor told him that his body could be fighting an infection. However, that is all the doctor knew. There was no further diagnose and he was to stay in the hospital for further observation.

I deduced that since he had a slight bump in his head, he must have taken a knock while he was in the restaurant's toilet. As he came out yesterday saying that he had a sudden blackout, I knew something must have happened. In spite of this, there was no visible bruise on his arms, so I knew he did not fall flat, maybe just a slight knock. There was a small reddish patch where he felt a bump on his head.

I continued with the deductions and piecing the 'puzzle' together with X. Until the doctor came to visit him. The stubborn workaholic wanted to return to work as there is a big event coming up. The doctors advised against him discharging, however, as they couldn't diagnose anything wrong, they agreed to it but not before making him sign an indemnity form. That's the way it is in Singapore; everyone wants to protect their own asses...

We waited and waited for 2 to 3 hours before he was formally discharged.

1730hrs:

I reached home, damn tired and drained from the day's event and the lack of sleep. However, I was glad that all's well ended well. Just as I was printing out some information for work the next day, YK called me for dinner, reluctantly I joined him...I never expected the hectic day would continue from there... (to be continued)

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In life, nothing is predictable. You can't be prepared for anything at all. Follow your heart and do what you desire. Remember, life is a buffet, eat all you can!! :-)

Lasik

2007-06-13T14:03:00.000+08:00

I'm on leave now and it's a whopping 12-day period. However, instead of going to some exotic getaway, I chose to 'zap' myself.

Well I'm not exactly doing the zapping, it's done by some doctor from Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC). Yes I took the plunge by allowing someone to shoot a laser into my eyes. For the sake of perfect vision, no less.

When I was asking around for opinions, I met up with many naysayers who were more ignorant then they were malicious. Many of them have the wrong concept and I don't know who gave them the misinformation.

They thought that it was painful and you would be temporary 'blind' and then your vision may be worse off. Some of these people discouraged me from doing it, others expressed their fears about it,while some admired my guts for doing it.

If I didn't do my research on the internet and ask around, I could have some reservations about doing the operation. Fortunately, I decided to collect as much facts as I could about the surgery, the pre-op and the aftermath.

I underwent a 3 hour eye test to determine whether I was suitable for the operation. They got me to do the Snellen's chart and some regular eye test, like you would by an optician. Then they applied some relaxing eye drop to dilate my pupils and subject me to a machine which would be able to digitally map out my eye for the doctor's referral. Other than blurred vision for a short while, there were no side effects from the eye drops.

The doctor in charge of my operation assured me that I am a suitable candidate and only highlighted to me that I would experience some irritation due to the fact that my eyelashes were tilted inwards towards my eyeballs.

Anyway, as I was wearing soft lenses (read:disposable), I was told to stop wearing it 3 days before the operation.

For people who are interested to know the 'don'ts' before and after operation, they are as follows:

Before
soft lenses users: Do not wear them 3 day before ops
Hard lenses users: 1 week before ops
Girls: No Mascara on ops day (in my opinion, no makeup at all would be best)

After
No rubbing of eyes, No makeup for a week, No swimming for 1-2months, Do not allow shampoo or soap to get into eyes. Avoid contact sports. Keep sunglasses on and avoid direct sunlight. Keep eyes lubricated as much as possible with the eyedrops. Sleep with the googles on to avoid accidental scratching

During the operation day, I got my girlfriend to drive me, so I didn't have to worry about transport.

I was lead into a room where a staff nurse explained to me the details and tried to answer any queries I had. She also briefed me on how to take care of my eyes. Then she gave me a shower cap to wear as well as 2 covers for my sole. She also applied some antiseptic eye drops. I was to wear a operation jacket ( those worn by patients)

Afterwhich I was lead into the operating theatre, where my doctor and 2 other assistants were waiting for me. Instead of the usual E.R operating table, there was a huge contraption waiting for me. As Dr Evil would say, it is the "Laser" machine.

I was told to relax and focus on a red dot project by an infra-ray. The doctor said that it was imperative that I kept my focus on that dot. He also said he was going to blackout my eyes. I wondered how?

A mini-cramp forced my eyelids open and there was no way I could blink. Then he pressed something onto my eye. I felt the pressure and true enough, everything became pitch-dark. Only for a while though. When I could see again, he activated the laser. It was loud and I could see the light; it was a bit like lightning but it was painless. In less than 5 mins, it was done and he continued with the other eye.

After the operation, I already felt the improvement to my vision. Although it was a bit cloudy, he told me that it was gonna clear up. The vision will only stabilise within 6 mths. It was normal to have clear vision one day and not so clear vision the next.

I went home and took a nap. When I woke up 2 hours later, I felt the vision had clear a bit. The eyes were still dry and I did what I was told and took care of my eyes. I threw away my contact lens and casing. I was free at last!

Finally I want to thank the staff at SNEC, they were very professional and courteous. never have I experienced such professinalism with staff in the govenment sector. I think they should be a role-model for all staff in the nursing industry in Singapore.

Now it is time for me to shop for proper sunglasses....:-)

Keukenhof - The tulip garden

2007-05-21T19:39:00.000+08:00

This post is a bit off schedule as I just came back from reservist.

I was in Amsterdam, Holland, during 5th May.

I love tulips and what better way to see it than at Keukenhof.

This place is unique as it only opens for 2 months a year, between Mar to May. It has a large variety of tulips, in all sorts of colour. I think I was fortunate enough to be able to catch it during the season.

However, when I touched down in Amsterdam, it was raining. It was the sort of rain that last for the whole day.

Due to some miscommunication with the concierge who booked our tour, we missed the bus. Instead of being helpful, the hotel staff berated us for being late. After satisfied with dampening our mood and kicking us when we fell down, he told us to rush to the tour agent's office. However, he gave us very vague instructions and we didn't managed to find it right away. To make things worse, the rain kept pouring.

Fortunately, after a turn of events and running from one street to another in the rain, we managed to find the pickup point.

Below are the photos I took despite getting drenched...:-) enjoy

wicked humour

2007-04-29T22:28:00.000+08:00

I love comedies. Especially those black comedies. I enjoy the wittiness of the script and dialogue. However in the movies, the good ones are few and far between. Therefore I turn my attention to the small screen.

My all-time favourite would be 'Seinfeld'. Although it ended a few years ago after a long and successful run, I still enjoy the re-runs on cable. The chemistry between Jerry, Elaine, George and Kramer were sizzling and near perfection. I cannot stop laughing cause they are a bunch of self-centered, wicked, unlucky and wacky people. Recently, one of the creators, Larry David, did a new series called 'Curb Your Enthusiasm', the humour and content was nearly as good as 'Seinfeld', but lacked the charismatic group.

Anyway, since 'Seinfeld', there had been many pretenders to the throne. I have seen a fair bit of them and would like to share them with you, if you have the same acute taste in comedy as me...

1. Little Britain

Talking about British humour (not Mr Bean). You may be forgiven if you assumed that all people from the UK are black-hearted after seeing this successful series. It is so good, witty script, wicked humour and jokes, that you will be laughing along all of the time except when they pulled out a Brit slang or two. There are only 2 main men in this series. Within the 1 hour episode, there are mini storylines that do not relate to each other. It is kinda like the 'Benny Hill Show' except there are more dialogues and wit compared to Hill's infamous slapstick. These 2 guys in Little Britain, portray a dozen colourful characters each. There is the 'cripple' man on the wheelchair and his very patient friend who tries his best to keep his sanity and accede to the crazy demands and eccentric temper of his 'less fortunate' friend. There is the very gay guy in a small village, always proclaiming that he is the only gay and that people always ostracize him, however, when other gay people turn up in his village, he tries desperately to chase them away. There is also a gay PA of the prime minister who constantly fights for affection and attention of his boss. Did I mentioned that these 2 comedians do not blink an eye about cross-dressing to get into character? Of course it always have the very funny effect cause both of them are big-sized and quite hairy... Kudos to Matt Lucas & David Walliams. Art Central showed it for a while and I don't think they show it now because there isn't a huge following...Singaporeans prefer watching things like Desperate Housewives, Prison Break and Lost. Well, life is serious enough without adding on to it on tv. It's high time we have a following for comedies

2. Will & Grace

I have seen it a few times, most of it during my stay overseas. It is an American comedy and the 4 leads spend lots of time together like in 'Seinfeld'. However, there is a twist in this story. Like 'Seinfeld' where Jerry & Elaine used to date each other and later became friends, Will & Grace was nearly married to each other, only for Will to come out that he is gay. After splitting up for a long time, they bumped into each other and sort of become roommates. Then they have 2 friends, Jack, who is a more flamboyant gay and an alcoholic rich socialite, Karen, who works as Grace's assistant to pass time. This plot has a lot of mention on sex and gay jokes. Will & Grace are often described as non-sexual life partners. Oh yeah and alot of bitchin... although it has ended its run, it is worth the price in DVDs. The jokes and humour come thick & fast, typical American comedy. I think the best part is that since Jack is very flamboyant, it breaks all previous taboos about gay jokes. Although many tv series has some sexual connotations, this one is no-holds-barred. Alot of the shows were done 'live' with audiences, no chance for NGs and you can really see the actors enjoying themselves. The chemistry between them is good and I highly recommend it as a must see.

From left: Jack, Grace, Will and Karen
Sean Hayes, Debra Messing, Eric McCormack and Megan Mullally.

3. Saturday Nite Live (SNL)

This is the godfather of 'live' stand up comedy like Dave Chapelle. It produced alot of comedians turned movie star. Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Vince Vaugh and recently Tina Fey.

This show dates back to 1975 and is still running. CNBC ran it for a while but maybe due to the poor ratings (CNBC is on cable) it discontinued. However, you should never discount its value in humour.

It is broadcast 'Live' from NYC, and in front of many audiences. Every week you will see different celebrities hosting the show and also taking part in the banter and slapstick jokes in each episode. Each of them will kick off the show with a 3 minute monologue, sometimes making fun of themselves. Previous hosts include, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Will Ferrell, Ashton Kutcher, Colin Ferrell, Jude Law, Robert De Niro, Natalie Portman just to name a few.

The show consists many skits, character-playing, sometimes depicting real life politicians, especially George Bush and his merry men of the white house. You know the show ain't Republican for sure. They make fun of everyone and poke fun at everything. Wicked with a capital W

Although there is a guest host each week, the show has a regular cast of comedians who are damn good at what they do. As the show has been a launch pad to stardom, you can see that the quality of the comedians are best of the best.

Some skits are so popular, they get a long running series week after week. 'Celebrity Jeopardy' was one. 'Bear City' was another, 'Weekend Update' was also another.

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While I would love to banter on about my list of must-see comedies, it would be better if you go on to discover or see an episode to feel how I feel. As they say, a picture speaks a thousand words.

Just some more comedies from my list.

Coupling (UK), South Park, Curb your Enthusiasm, The Office (UK), Extras, 2 and 1/2 men, Just Shoot me, The Drew Carrey Show, Whose Line is it Anyway?

spending time alone

2007-04-22T22:55:00.000+08:00

Just came back from a long flight on Sat and now I am on a week's leave.
Didn't plan to do anything or go anywhere, so I will be staying put in SIN.

Realised I am getting old, and my memory is not as good as it used to be.
Many topics to write about, but I forgotten cleanly as soon as I got back SIN...haha

Every since I was 17 or so, I had wanted to move out and to taste the feeling of living alone. The freedom and space that I would be able to enjoy was just exciting. No more noisy chatting, loud tv sets, no more phone rings at unearthly timings, no more nagging from my grandma.

At 21 or so, my space was 'invaded' by my uncle's family as they moved into my granny's house and stayed for 2 years.

My uncle has just been declared a bankrupt and he had to sell his house, his car and everything of value. My granny had to take him in as he is the only son she has. I was ok with the idea until the actual place happened. He brought alot of things from his house along, so our house became half a storeroom. He also had 3 children and a maid (!) The explanation was that the children needed care and the maid was kept legal under my granny's name. In the end our 3 room flat was allocated into the following; the maid and 3 children took my room (!), while my uncle & his wife took my granny's room (!!)...in the end i had to share a room with my granny...2 beds, a dressing table, my hi-fi set, tv set and a wardrobe (!!!) There were hardly space to walk.....:-(

It was crazy and although I was in the army back then, I felt very angry and really wanted to move out and stay on my own. However, I didn't have much money and the idea was canned...I had to endure this living condition until they moved out!

I was relieved when they moved out, the house was quieter and everything was peaceful. However, they left a void when they moved out, as the only people in the house now was my granny and me...

I got back my own room and had more walking space, at this point in time my ex-girlfriend started flying and I seldom get to see her...Being young and fun-loving, I hanged out with friends all the time. I hated to be alone, shopping, watching movie, sipping coffee, so I always try to get people out. I was constantly frustrated when my friends were not free and I had to stay at home.

As I grew older, many of my guy friends had a girlfriend and our activities were lesser and meeting up was rare. Even football sessions became seasonal.
My current girlfriend also started flying and I was spending more time alone. I was at a loss of what to do. When I was bumming around in between jobs, it really got bad, as I had plenty of time to myself. My grandma was constantly in front of the tv set and most of my days at home was spend alone, internet, games etc.

For someone who had always people around him, learning to cope with loneliness was not a smooth journey. I came to accept that people's priorities changed as they get older. Work, family or their significant other came first. Football, partying, having fun was always secondary.

When my girlfriend wanted out of our relationship a while back, I was caught unaware and suddenly thrown into despair. This time I really had no one to turn to. It was work and work. No one to share my joys and complaints. I was back to singlehood, but it was not what I wanted.
For 8 months, this bachelor couldn't find the mood to swing. I felt disconnected to the world, to everyone.

Although I am currently back with my girlfriend, I find myself all grown up, emotionally. I seem more nonchalant toward things, more realistic.

Joining the airline was another phase in life as I had to go back to basics. There were no prior experience that I could rely on, just my girlfriend guiding me along the way. However, when I discovered that although you can be working on the same flight, everyone has their own life after they land. The life of a flight attendant was less than glamourous from this view. Everyone was not as fun-loving as before and most of the juniors had to really rely on themselves, as they are often without the company of seniors.

After my first 2 flights, someone had told me that I had to explore, even if it was on my own, if not I would not be able to see the world. As I found out, it was true; I had to have my own plans and I couldn't rely on anyone. As a polite gesture, I do still ask, however, to avoid disappointment, I had to lower my expectations that colleagues will join me.

Since then, I think I truly had adapted to being alone. It is actually quite nice to make your own plans and go out alone. Since I had a habit of talking to myself, I didn't really need any feedback. Armed with a camera & a map, I explored without the need for company. By blogging, I can share with people who couldn't be with me, the experience that I had.

The irony now is that I am literally alone in the house. My grandma is staying with my mum, in view of her weak health and, me being constantly on the move is unable to watch over her.
Thus, I am spending more time alone in a 4-room flat, whenever I am back from my flights.
Living by yourself is so much more different than what I had expected. If not for the internet, I would not even be in contact with any humans for long periods of time.

Maybe when you spend time alone, you can discover many things you did not know about yourself. Through this, I think that even the most child-like person will grow tremendously.

Of course I would not refuse a gathering with friends when I am in town. I am not a hermit on an island. I am still a team player. It's just that the frustration is lesser now when things don't go my way.

But I am still growing up and it's a never ending journey, this road of self-discovery. :-)

Sakuran Japanese Cultural Club Handover

2007-03-24T22:16:00.000+08:00

Went to NYP yesterday for the AGM cum Handover of Sakuran Club. Actually I was feeling a bit tired as I just touched down from Melbourne in the early evening. However, seeing that the response from the alumni was poor, I decided to attend the event as a sole representative from my batch and the seniors before me.

Maybe many of you have the thinking that what is a grown man, who left school for nearly 8 years ago, bother with all this kind of gatherings where the participants are nearly 10 years younger than him. Is he after the sweet young things? Is he an insurance agent/property agent/multi-level marketeer?

Well let me just share how I feel when I was a student and when my seniors then, came back to attend the gatherings and participate in the activities

I felt very happy to see them return to school every now and then, to visit us, Ota sensei and share their words and wisdom with us. Back then, the alumni were very close to us. We would always go out after gatherings to have coffee, dinner or just jalan-jalan...

Maybe it's because our age difference was just 2 or 3 years and we share many interest and topics.

When some of the guys went into National Service and the girls went overseas to study, the attendance of the alumni dropped significantly. Not that anyone is to blame but that is part and parcel of life. However, no one stopped to think how would the juniors and Ota sensei feel, when suddenly the link between the alumni and club is weaken greatly.

For a large part of the gathering, I have noticed the gap between the club members and the alumni widen. Most of the time I always say it's Eiji's fault (my successor, 7th batch President), in jest, but deep within me, I know I have to bear some responsibility as well. I still blame myself for not doing a better job when I was president.

Until today, the club is going strong and there is more diversity in activities, I feel very happy for them and I admire them for managing it so well.

Anyway, when I got out of army, I told myself the only way to repay my debt to the club and also to redeem myself for not performing well, is to renew faith of the members and Ota sensei in the alumni and also to rebuild the bridge that has been eroded.

It's not easy and I know that I cannot succeed alone. However I will try my best and hopefully with my perseverance, the rest would be influence to take up the same path.

Alright, enough said. Coming up are photos of the event. Not very good photography skills but I hope to improve...hehe

Nowadays the AGM are very detailed and professional. Laptop, with powerpoint presentation and video projection. Slick!

They elaborate on the roles and duties of each post, including achievements and lessons learnt throughout their 'tour of duty'

Oh yeah by the way the 2 bouquets were part of Mrs Ota's creation. Marrying a Japanese tea ceremony and Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement)

does have its advantages! :-) The decoration gives the cold, hard room a soft touch, don't you think?

Managed to take a photo of the 13th batch ( they handed over to the 14th) committee. Make the 6th batch old man here feel so old...

From the left: President Shu Herng, VP activities Sharon, VP HR Dionne and VP Admin Sok Ying

Each appointment & appreciation certificate is signed on the spot by the President & Ota Sensei...professional leh. The certificates look so nice, unlike my time...Now Sakuran Club got more budget...they even arranged for door gifts and catered some refreshments...

Behold the 14th batch committee of SJCC (on the right of pics)

President

VP activities

VP Admin

The reason why 2 of them are handing over, is due to a restructure in which the VP admin also doubles up as secretary

VP HR

Treasurer

Head of Origami

Head of JMD (Japanese Music & Dance)

Head of AAA (Anime Addicts Anyonmous)

Bye 13th batch! Great job and all the best!

Now the 13th batch is officially part of the alumni...

14th batch work hard! All the best & never give up!

old habits

2007-03-13T12:04:00.000+08:00

History always repeat itself. Remember the time when mini-skirts, flare pants, aviator shades were in fashion back in the 60s & 70s? Well they faded but not too long ago they were all the rage again in the late 90s. Same thing for pedal pushers, thong sandals, big hoop earrings.

Remember when Rick Astley, Bananarama, Pet Shop Boys, Cyndi Lauper, Eurasure, etc. had their hits on the radio for the first time? They came back too, this time at the disco floor.

What I'm trying to put across is that sometimes, old things do come back in style. Old habits don't only die hard, they come back with a vengence.

On a personal level, I started to do many things that I used to do in the past, after a long break.

Here is a list that I used to do and the period that I stopped before resuming.

1) I used to read books (at least 3 years)
2) I used to listen to Japanese music (4-5 years)
3) I used to go gym (2 years)
4) I used to sing at the Karaoke shop (stop start for 6-12 mths in btw 5 years)
5) I used to blog ( 1 year of irregular period)
6) I used to swim ( at least 2 years)
7) I used to play Winning Eleven (3 years)
8) I used to frequent discos (2 years)

As you may have realised now that I have sort of continued my habits of above. Why the breaks in between? Well, there were many reasons to why I stopped doing them. Most of the time it was due to cash. I used to spend loads on money on imported Japanese CDs and at the Karaoke shop. After a while, I was stuck with loads of CDs and sleeping to the tune of Teresa Teng in my head. Now, I just download my Japanese songs from the Net. As for the Karaoke, I do it on payday now :-)

I used to visit the gym religiously, until an idiot landed on me during football, injuring my left shoulder and rendering it unable to do any weights and pushups for a while. Now, after such a long break, I am trying to pick up where I left off with great difficulty.

Sold my PS2 because I realised that I was hooked on playing this game called Winning Eleven every night. I have since returned to playing on PSP, as I have greater control over my 'dark' side. 'You have grown, young Padawan' said Obi-Wan

I stopped going to discos because my girlfriend doesn't like going to one initially. However, I think she has changed her mind now :-)

Started to blog again, this time on Blogger, as the blogging space in Friendster sucks. Reading up again as my brain cells are dying due to inactivity.

Maybe it's me, or maybe it happens to most people. Old habits do come back :-) what about u?