chilsthots

2011-11-13T04:11:00.001+08:00

Here we go again!

11th day of the eleventh month of 2011 or 11-11-11! So it's a thousand year cycle and why so auspicious?

Got my first sms to p____h at equine! Then another half an hour later - upon which I said to myself, if I don't call back, there will be a third! True enough there was a third! So I called back! Can't do the third as it is in July 2012. Why? Want to keep July and August free as I am feeling really caustrophobic! Have not been up in the sky, flying somewhere for a while now!

Well, I didn't say no to the first! It was 'cancelled' by man and for a rather suspicious reason! So now we will see .....

2011-11-08T03:54:00.000+08:00

My God is full of humour and irony.....

what I really would have liked to be physically, mentally and whole-heart-edly is ......!!!!!! .... where???

Instead of being there, I am now into my second week of teaching British history ... right from the Romans in Britain to the Victorians....

So do I need to spell it out where my heart is ???

ps. I don't like this new 'blog' format, as I have to learn all over again! Too much learning.... one would think that I am back-doing-some-masters degree again!

Incidentally, I am now living a really monastic life! I sleep between 7-9pm and sets alarm to get up at 3-4am; check my mail, and then get ready and leave for work by 5.30am!

My working hours? 7am to 4pm! What have I got myself into...

back to the grind....

2011-10-16T01:27:00.003+08:00

Just checked that it is nearly a year since I updated this block! Better late than never!

Yes, it took a while! I have retired; decided not to do MDiv; bought another house, which means working for the bank again; and now going through the grind again! What is it for? All in the hope of storing up on earth, this world!

Still I had a year to reflect, went through some things.... walked away from the past... almost literally when I lost my phone. What's the big deal? Phone numbers ie contacts of the last 10years are gone!

Upon reflection it has always been like this. Every decade, I embark on something new and made the best of it! Hence my favourite song "My way...".

Also my conclusion if not version of .... we are all ships in the ocean, we meet, make friends as we journey together; then when the time arrives, we go our seperate ways..."All is temporarily cause I know I can't run away from HIM for too long!

Then again, He has placed me still, among his people!

learning to be an educator.....

2011-10-16T01:16:00.001+08:00

Yes, I am now embarked on a new and probably my last career.... ie. learning to be an educator! Well, that was six months ago! Just got my sixth month and is confirmed as a staff of an international school! All I could say is .... yesssss...... I survived! Loved the bit of 'imparting knowledge to my kids... six years old ones! Like every thing else in life, one doesn't know if what one does is appreciated. However, when you have six year old kids standing up for you, it is so, so rewarding!Haven't updated this for a long time! Should use this space again to record if not check the progress of my kids!

no mega tower

2010-10-24T01:19:00.011+08:00

Well, I have not done any post for a long while now. Have been using Facebook as it is more interactive; not forgetting the games that are available.

Guess it is about time - if not for record if nothing else.

Well about two weeks ago, we have the 2011 budget announcement. Of course there is this ridiculous announcement to try to 're-activate' the economy - by building a 100 storey tower! Boringgg...!!! Sarcastic and cynical, and having learnt some literature in school, really, it is just another phallic symbol of yet another prime minister. That of course, is a much better point of view instead of insinuating the corruption, under-table monies and enriching a few etc. etc.

However, what is of interest, and some thing that will not ever go away for a while. is this new way for us ordinary citizens to express our opinions! Almost overnight, we have this 1M Malaysians Reject 100 storey Mega Tower. [check out http://www.facebook.com/NoMegaTower; http://on.fb.me/baV6US ]

So we protest. Not sure when it started, but it has already over a hundred thousand who have logged in. Today, Sunday, is the day, we change the profile in our Facebook. It is definitely a peaceful protest, no doubt and Ghandi would have been really proud.

So below are some of the pictures we could use for this silent and non-violence protest!

And these are alternatives suggested for the ruling party on how best we could spend RM5billion...

try a little kindess..

2010-06-11T05:35:00.003+08:00

I couldn't sleep at all.

It was rough at work. What else but negotiations of course! My boss said - business and things would have been smoother, with every one making monies, if we all are kinder to one another!

"Kindness" seems not to be the fashion nowadays; especially dealing with the Y generation! May be it is a result of the smaller family syndrome ie only one other sibling in a family unit. So there is no need or experience of having to share. It is always a case of 'one getting exactly what one wants'.

A small, probably silly association or excuse for our generation - I mean we grew up singing the song "Try a little kindness" by Glen Campbell. But I don't think there are any songs of this postmodern generation with that word "kindness" in it.

So it is with great enlightenment that I read in the wake service bulletin of
Mr Poh Sin Bin, of his favourite passage.

"I expect to pass through this world once
If therefore there be any kindness I can show
Or any good things I can do to any fellow being
Let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it
For I shall not pass this way again..."

I am not sure where this passage is taken from.
It is a true reflection of Mr Poh's actions and principles in life.

Rest in peace Mr Poh, for you have
"fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith"
(2 Timothy:5-7 (NIV])
and have been kind to everyone you touched...
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my current other interest...

2010-06-11T05:14:00.009+08:00

It is now at least a full month when I do not have to worry about homework or studies! Though I do have a CH assignment outstanding. Well.. not quite... too long away from studies make me lazy and now thinking of not handing it in.

Now what decadence have I been up to then??? Virtual farming of course!

Take for example in this pics - what has a leaning tower, cacti and a circus elephant have in common? Answer - an addicted farmer!

Then we have the latest collection - hardly two days old! A Groovy Cow - which hops and delivers loads of 'hearts' when we pet it. Yes, there was a survey by Farmville to ask what we would like to plant and make the produce into ie a baker, a wine-maker or a spa-owner! As you could see - I choose to be a master baker! Well, I know my friends bake wonderful cakes - so I dream I could be like them - a virtual master baker!

Last but not least, here is my virtual place of solace - after a rough day at work!

All for a good course! Pure indulgence of time and brain cells totally at rest!
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the yang and the youngest..

2010-06-11T04:18:00.004+08:00

First we have five .... little brats of nephews and niece who will follow us where ever we go. Now we are down to the two youngest - Eric aka Yang in red and Christopher in white. In form four this year, they are still 'obedient' enough to follow their elders.

In a table of 10 with only two teenager, it is great to see their love for food. I mean they are still growing kids! The rest of us have to watch our cholestrol, hp, sugar level etc. etc..

So it is with great delight to see their antics!

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eighty three years of life...

2010-06-11T03:48:00.008+08:00

Today a very good and dear friend, Mr Poh Sin Bin, passed on at the age of 88years old. For the first time, I cried at a wake service. We never knew how much a person touched us till it is too late. Hence, though I have been procrastinating, it is about time, that I record life as well.

We celebrated our Mum's 83rd birthday on June 03, 2010. It is an amazing feat considering that she had cancer at 60 ie twenty three years ago. The Lord has been really kind to us.

My Mum and Dad just before a charity dinner. This year we also witness a couple who are married for 55years! Being thrifty, Mum went and bought herself a RM180.00 dress; which she said was about her salary that many years ago, as a school teacher, just about 60years ago.

At the charity dinner by Nam Kueng school; organised by the ex-students Association. It is to raise monies for a part of the school roof.

These students also celebrated Mum's birthday. I never counted, but apparently, she was a teacher for 27years!
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bored...

2010-05-30T07:25:00.003+08:00

Yup I am so bored...
There is so much to do...
work ... I mean..
yet I am so bored!

So I play my FV games! But the FV server is having a 'small problem'. Small you said? 15 hours down the road, and it is not fixed yet.

Well, it is affecting millions of people! So what do we do?
We do silly things.
See this cute little black foal...
Look properly, it has bling bling round its tail - to be polite...
What people do for originality! Or to keep their millions occupied!

Going around criticising doesn't help! I am still bored!
OKay, let me go and read a book!
Do have loads of reading to do...

Oh, incidentally I saw the movie Robin Hood - two and a half hour. Nice! I like such movies anyway - more on the line of Lord of the Rings! Director approached it from another angle, with movie starting with the Crusades. Far cry from the romantic character of one helping the poor!
BBC had a documentary on the Character, too. Apparently, there is no concrete evidence that Robin Hood existed! However, the impressions seems to be some inference to a 'Robin Hode', who was caught as a thief.

Right - let me now get back to reading - on the Crusades and Early Church history!
boriiiiiiiiiiingggg........
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baked beans....

2010-05-11T01:37:00.004+08:00

Ok, we all know that beans result in flatulence. I was too lazy to cook, so I had a can of baked beans and bread! Boy oh boy, did I or did I not have a bad case of flatulence! Worse thing is - the air is not coming out! My mid-torso is bloated and tight. It is so uncomfortable that I could not even concentrate on studying for Heberew test on Wednesday, D-day! Anyway, I took excuse and did not go to work.

So what did I do? Watched Ghost Rider; a bit of a let down compared to the comic books!

Then I managed to catch a documentary on Machu Pichu, on the Discovery Channel. I mean it has been and now looks possible to fulfil my intention and ambition to go to the Andes and Machu Pichu. The scenery is breathtaking - being so high up the mountains and so near the sky (or heaven)? But after watching the documentary, I am not sure if it is a good idea now though. Why? Brings back memories of the agony climbing the hills of Sappa! There are terraced fields and terraces to climb - but no kind, money-grabbing Hmong women to hold my hand!!! This time if I ever get to go, I better spend months training for it!

Oh since I am 'house-bound' I have also took the opportunity to clean up my FB. Removed most games from the current FB account and migrated it to another. My excuse is that the FB emails are clogging my inbox. Actually it is part of the winding-down if not melt-down(?)process! Scary if one dwells on it; and definitely dreary and a drag! Should have done what my friend did - just walk off and start anew!

Then of course, these two days are most dramatic. So the Euro has been steadily dropping. Yesterday, the first Euro economy, Greece, crumbled. Is this the second dip projected by economic experts? Quite possible. Euro cannot be unaffected by the rest of the world.

So I was asked if I have been through such economic melt-down before. Yes, of course. It happens every ten years, always starting in the xxx8-11, just before the end of a decade and beginning of another. Much like and as if the world needs to right itself before it begins another spat of ten years.

In the 1970's, I was too young to know. Didn't understand why my parents were never home till late. They took on two jobs to supplement their teacher's income to support four kids and two elderly parents! In the 1980's, as a young executive, I see how my senior managers walked out of the conference room with a really black face; and the company had to bear about RM600k in bad-debts from the closing down of just one chain store; never knew the final amount. In the 1990's, the melt-down was only in Asia. The multi-national company I was working for have had head-quarters financial support; so it does not matter. Now in this decade's melt-down, it does not matter how big or small a company is, it will be the survival of the thrifty and the shrewed.

Today also I watched our local news. Suddenly I noticed our young PM's hair is totally silver. These two years of being in power sure seem to have aged him. Don't envy him! Definitely a difficult job in very difficult times! But then to each it's own! Poor man is trying to launch another 1Malaysia scheme. Actually it is just another name for another Government bond. We better pray for our country! All these religious Allah and racial issues are a cover up. Do the people know that our country's economy is in deep-shit?

In all bad situation, there is always a silver-lining at the end.
But this time, I will not be walking alone; for HE is with me!
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festering .....

2010-05-06T01:34:00.005+08:00

I think I have come to realize (if you have not yet) that there would usually be a sort of long silence. Then I go into a spurt of writings!

Actually every time sometime happens or saw something, I will think 'oh, I got to record that in my blog'. But I never got to do it. Never got to write I mean.

Excuses are plenty. We brood about it. We get bogged down, literally and figuratively. We even get weighted down. Well, one thing for sure, we let it fester inside for a while.

This festering comes about because we or I want things to happen the way I want it. I think that this is the right way to do it. It is especially so when we have had spent years doing it; and it has always proven to be successful many times over!
But most of all, I want it to happen now! So the festering consumes us!

However, with time and age, I have learnt that this period of 'brooding', anxiety, festering and being weighted down is good; so long as we do not let it depress us or express it out aggressively at friends or family.

Why? because I now acquaint this 'period' to the biblical phrase 'wait upon the Lord'. Really it is a period for things to fall into place. Depending on who is looking at it - there are always two sides to the coin; which is another story - of the young and energetic or the mature and mellow!

So today, the festering is over!
Yes we have a GM!
Yes, I even got a missed call, which probably means a trip to Italy!
Yes, it has hit me that migrating to Sydney is happening to some people!

Nothing concrete yet! But it is happening! It is the beginning of a new decade! We still have to hold our horses as the picture unfolds....
Meanwhile it is good 'wait upon HIM for HIS timing upon HIS will'!
Amen!

what a week.....

2010-04-24T02:08:00.005+08:00

what a week it has been....

Got this picture from the mail entitled
"it's okay, sometimes, to say the 'f' word".
Not sure who the photographer is; but sure is at the right place at the right time and with a camera.

This picture is rather appropriate. Don't we all feel like the lorry sometimes. Describes me for the moment. The physical exhaustion is bearable; we could always pop Vitamins or sleep it off. Mental exhaustion is another kettle of fish - I am totally drained! Emotionally I am a robot! What about Spiritually? I am totally dry - now which desert should I equate it to?

However, I have to admit that it has been fruitful. Accomplished quite a lot of stuff. There are opportunity costs though; I have not touched any aleph, ... eh ... what is 'b'... don't know..! Exams in two weeks! For once, I do have a happy and good conscience about failing!

Sure am looking forward to the weekend. But weekend starts only in another 24hours! I have lectures; and will most likely fall asleep again!

I like the photograph. Whatever the burden, we remain standing. Rest we have to look towards and leave it to HIM!
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..... a moment in time

2010-04-16T02:10:00.006+08:00

Whilst we sympathise with mankinds' suffering, nature's disasters can and must be admired for its beauty!

While many are facing hardship, we must admit that a photograph captures a moment in time.

Ash rising above the clouds in the recent Icelandic volcanic eruption!

Photograph taken by Ap
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/8622055.stm
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requiem for a python family...?

2010-04-15T18:14:00.008+08:00

Okay the bigger picture finally emerged!

Remember I mentioned that my friend had an encounter with a python at 4am. She was woken by her dogs barking at a python. But that python escaped and disappeared. We didn't quite believe her either as there is no proof.

Well the same python appeared and this time was not so fortunate. The fire department was alerted and below picture is proof that there is a real python around. Let us call this the neighbour 1.

But why a title like a 'requiem'? Well, we then found out that another neighbour 2, actually killed one. As he is a man, he sort of quietly killed and disposed of it and did not want to frighten the neighbours!

Oh well, that is just the death of two big snakes! Big deal? Yes! Then neighbour 3, came out and said that they killed two baby pythons of about a feet each!

Sigh! sigh! sigh! Lets have a minute of silence please! Let us mark the end of a python family!

The fear, of us, urban middle class families are the bane of our society! I remind them that the python actually helps to rid the area of feral cats and rats. Guess what the answer is? Yah, hardly a week have passed, I am starting to see rats running into the house again!

But ...
maybe... there is just a glimmer of hope!
Pythons, when they are successful in 'breeding', would generally have more than two eggs! Please keep your fingers crossed and then pray that there are still at least two to three baby pythons running around! May the Lord, bless and keep them!

Question: Would I personally let a python run around wild? Yes, if I have such a big garden!
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hours of the morning...

2010-04-07T08:14:00.004+08:00

It is a few days now that I have been up and around like 6-9 in the morning! I am amazed at myself. Not sure how long this will last.

I mean - being up and about in the wee hours of the morning is usual. Temperature is cool. The silence of the night is so peaceful. Actions and thoughts of the day comes and one reflects on the 'good' and 'bad' things we have done. It is generally in front of the computer and a cup of aik-cheong coffee beside me; whilst the 'yohurt chicken', the rare-bits, and/or the rock buns that is baking in the oven.

But now things are different! Seven to nine in the mornings brings forth very different 'noise'. There are the school buses charging up the road; screeching to a stop as they pick up the kids for the morning session. The mothers screaming at their children who forget their water-bottle or lunch pack. Then we have the doors of cars and electric gates opening, as office workers leave for the office. Do you know that each electric gate have its own sound?

Yup! I heard all that! All these cacophony of sounds are like phonetic groan of people starting yet another 'busy' day. Not necessarily pleasant if one dwells into it. The toils and sweat of humanity begins and one habituate to it; forgetting their soul and objective of life.

It is a total contrast to the best sound of the morning; which comes just before that! The first chirp of the bulbuls and cuckoo brings forth a new morning! It always sound so cheerful. It is as if they are greeting one another constantly. It is as if they were singing:
'This is the day! This is the day! This is the day that the Lord has made!

And so I will now go to work, with a little skip in my steps and hum a little tune! I will choose to remember that this is the day that the Lord has made! Amen!

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go against the grain ...... and k.i.s.s.

2010-04-06T19:20:00.009+08:00

Since my heart and my head is not at work, I checked out the Rabbi's blog. (http://oldtestamentpassion.blogspot.com/2010/04/life-wisdom-in-visual-form.html)
To quote his wise advice:
"here is an interesting site - life wisdom in visual form. great idea for those intending to take wisdom literature class in TEE or 2nd semester in-campus course this year. how to re-brand OT wisdom e.g. proverbs into a format that acceptable and easily understood in a 21st century world?"

So I followed the site (http://pictomins.wordpress.com/). The first thing which pops up was this (below). I have taken the liberty to copy it.

First I love the visual ie the full-lips. Wish it was real. Alas, we have always been looking for a real live one to bring out the shades of our lipsticks. Love the red vibrant shade which one only find being used by mature, yet confident ladies!

Then I really love the message.
"Go against the grain and keep it simple stupid". A contradiction in itself. But it is true.

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Title: People Complicate Life Too Much – Go Against The Grain And Keep Things Simple Stupid

Life doesn’t need to be as complicated as so many make it. Jobs, family life, ownership, plans and creativity is always overcomplicated without good reason. This complexity caps your time, energy and money and almost always gives you a far less superior outcome. Take a moment to reflect on the things in your life that might be overcomplicated and try to focus on cutting back and streamlining them, you will be amazed at the difference this can make in your life.
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How can we go against the grain of society and yet be simple about it. Imagine the uproar if we go against the rules of society or a religion. But I love it; makes life interesting and appeals so much to my nature. Modern terms like lateral thinking, advices us to go against the grain; don't be a follower or a dead-wood. Empowerment of employees allows them to be 'movers and shakers' of the company and the world. Even God shakes us out of our complacency, occasionally, to go out and expand His kingdom!

Statement is appropriate, too, in light of a recent incident (a couple of hours old really) over some books. Like the author said ... why? why? why turn a couple of persons generosity into such complicity. May be we should truly go against the grain. It is as simple as - ask the owner of the books to withdraw them for a short period so we can access outside the boundaries.
Hee! Hee! hee! evil laughter! But no, we have matured. We don't do such things any more. Just the thought of it is satisfactory!

So let us enjoy the wise statement and truly reflect on our issues!

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countdown calendar .....

2010-04-06T18:48:00.006+08:00

Spent a couple of hours with a couple of good friends yesterday.....
They remind me that I should have a countdown calendar.

So as of this minute of writing this, there is this much time to
FREEDOM.

Time until Friday, 31 December 2010 (Kuala Lumpur time)
268 days
6437 hours
386232 minutes

Then again, FREEDOM is how one perceives it.....
for there is 'a time for every thing....'
(ecclesiates chapter something verse something..)
too lazy to check it out and feeling very flippant about things..

lack of sleep, doing my homework last night.
ah.. no it was the weehours of the morning.
correction again, didn't sleep but came straight to work..
therefore the reason for
the feeling flippant and very light in the head attitude
doing many things if not 'rubbish'..
for which one am paid very highly for...
sigh!
must not bite the hand that feeds one..
you ungrateful soul..

had a nap for a couple of hours
with a proper airpillow round the neck
and feet on the drawers,
in a leather bound, high back executive chair...

this would be the style of things
hopefully, only for a couple of months..
so don't you agree
that the thought of Freedom tastes very good

ps. just heard the great news that Michu Pichu is open to the public again!

pss. also heard, over the weekend, that we have a relative - from one of the in-laws, who have had actually just visited the place. Was a back-packing trip too at that! across Bolivia, Argentina etc...

So it is not that impossible nor a dream...
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of fairy godmothers

2010-03-31T13:07:00.004+08:00

Old ladies tales has this saying for bringing up kids "at 3-4 yrs of age, one could scold till our mouth is tired". Why? This is the age that the child is so full of curiosity discovering the world around them. No amount of explanation would deter them from wanting to try it for themselves. It is not as if this curiosity ends after that age.

Which brings me to another Chinese adage, that elders love to say to us, but we never listen nor understand - 'I eat more Salt than you have eaten Rice'. Here our ego rather than our curiosity never stops us from doing things that elders will advise against. We think we are better - we have computers and they don't.

So invariably we throw out the babies with the bath water; a thought I heard being voiced re our new form of worship. It is also related to our dropping our affirmation of faith. Coincidentally, I am also reading and eventually supposed to be reflecting on the Nicene Creed.

So what has all these to do with the picture below.

It is so sweet to have young nephews and nieces. Yes, when they are pre-teens and below, they love their Aunties. A friend even asked me once - why does my son likes you so much and is more than a friend to my son compared to me? Don't worry mummies, you will always be the mummy!

Simple! We do not discipline them. Neither do we have to worry if the kids are having fever, not eaten their dinner or done their homework. Aunties are Fairy God Mothers especially Aunties who brings them gifts; hugs them; and are even their playmates. I know because I have been there. I think the only love one could associate such love of a child is one of Jesus's. Jesus loves us inspite and despite of our blemishes and faults. A child doesn't know any better.

So the moral of the story is:-
Love them when they are young. Love them when they don't know any better. Spend as much them with them before they realise that they rather choose to be with friends instead of being seen with their aunties and parents!

My good friend basking in the love of a young and innocent child. A fairy godmother, as represented by the cake, is what she is in this period of the child's life.

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nearly three decades later..

2010-03-29T04:13:00.003+08:00

I have learnt to believe and expanded on a Chinese statement that
'life is like ocean going ship. We meet certain people in a certain period. We travel together for a while, sharing good and bad times; much like the ship in the middle of the ocean. Ultimately, we arrive at the harbour, so we depart to do our own things and life' .

Just about three decades ago, when we were sweet, innocent and young things, we met in college, read our various major, shared some good and tough times. Had great laughs and did some naughty things! Eventually, we graduated and then depart to start our own life.

So here three decades later, we meet again; having gone through the hard-knocks of real life... and yet... we are still friends...

But to close on a lighter note - the best part of it all, I finally got to eat my favourite Mauritius food! Authentically cooked too!

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15 & 51

2010-03-29T03:49:00.006+08:00

Talking about coincidences and numerology!
How often do we have birthdays where one generation is celebrating his 15th and another at 51? Well, I attended one. Apparently the next time, this 'coincidence' will be eleven years later.

Incidentally one is called Rayhan and another Reyhannah! This is no coincidence. Must remember to ask the mum why she chose the name!

Cakes done by the same loving hands... of a mother's and a sister's
A triple chocolate cake ...

A mouth-watering passion fruit cake...

Trust me, it was delicious. I had more than my share. Especially picking on the icing!
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a mother's love...

2010-03-29T03:31:00.006+08:00

A woman's toil in the daily care-taking of a child or a family is usually taken for granted or even expected.

Once in a while, we see a mother's love personified. Hence I was indeed fortunate to witness one recently. I mean, in this day and age, one could so easily just pop out to the shop and purchase a wonderful cheese, chocolate or even an ice-cream cake without so much as a blink of an eye. But the love of a mother's love is personified in the hours spent on making a birthday cake!

The loving hands of a mother.....

Toiling into the wee hours of the morning...

An exhausted but very proud and satified mum...?

picture speaks for itself...
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going back to basics...

2010-03-29T03:00:00.006+08:00

Once jet-setting belongs to the rich and famous.

But now flying is available to the ordinary, with the availability of Budget flights.

Once I use to travel on jetliners of boeings 747, 738 etc. And even with local travel, I would not get on a Fokker plane; especially after two harrowing experience where it is either a few days of driving or a Fokker flight, into the hinterland in East Malaysia.

But now I have no more travel miles, so I have to travel on Budget flights. No big deal right? especially when so many are doing it; and why should one be so arrogant. So in all humility, I booked myself on a Firefly or Kunang flight down to Singapore. I am quite patriotic too!

Lo and Behold, I did not expect to be going back to basics. Not that I am a great fan of aeroplanes; but I know I have seen this type of planes before 2nd World War movies. I really did not expect to be sitting on a re-conditioned propeller-ed cargo plane!
Yes - this is what I travelled in; although I have to admit it is quite comfortable.

But look at this plane parked on the other side of the runway! This is our kiastu's neighbours equivalent. Tiger Airways! It has got jet-engines!

Sigh! Will we always be the step-child? Will we always be inferior? Will we always be a step behind!

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babies have flown the nest...

2010-03-26T21:35:00.006+08:00

Two days after I came back from Singapore, I felt something was amissed. The garden was very quiet. I then realise that the parent bulbuls are not there to greet if not ensure that I do not disturb the nest again.

Of course all sorts of thoughts went through my mind. Like did those 'b...'wild cats get them? Did the cleaning lady's son take them away? Or even - my Dad must have come to take them and made medicinal soup with the babies. Normal but no excuse - we always think the worst of people and situations.

Sob! sob! sob! The babies have flown the nest. I have had wished I was there to see them take their first flight. But I miss it.

It should be a moment of joy and pride, but I have to admit that it does take some getting used to; and there is a sense of emptiness too. Compared to the parents' constant flying in and out to catch insects and feed the babies, the silence was deafening. This is the second lesson within a month. Not sure what 'wounded healing' I need to do eventually, this is a very literal understanding of the statement - birds have flown the nest. Guess this is the time to cut the apron strings, and wish them well.

But God is kind too. Next morning I heard and saw the 'family' feeding off a neighbours tree. The tree was flowering and there were noticably a lot of butterflies and bees around. Actually saw one of the babies chasing after a bee, but was not able to catch it. It has not quite learnt the skills to manoeuvre round and inbetween the branches. Antics brought a smile.

So to remind me, here is a photo to remind me of my pseudo babies!

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life..

2010-03-26T21:04:00.003+08:00

You know when we are down, we search for a meaning in life. Most of us turn to a god. But if you don't have a God to believe in, what do you do? You will be amazed at the various ways people go about it. Many of my neighbours actually subscribe to the daily horoscope. You'll know because the minute they turn on their Facebook, they go online to some predictions for the day.

How do we believe in a God that we don't get to see, but have made a conscious choice to follow. The people who actually survived during the 2WW generally have a God they cling to. It is very much a matter of mind over matter.

But we are not at war. We have a mundane life if not so mundane jobs. I mean, this picture is so appropriate. Here we thought we are okay, if not perfect. But there is always someone or something which will spoil the perfect life or picture we want to have.

So the moral of the story?
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain.
(not sure who wrote the observation, but serves as a useful reminder)
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virtual farming...

2010-03-26T00:56:00.006+08:00

This is what I am indulging in and quite delighted with the various 'points of view' in this article.

Down on the FarmVille by Rajini Vaidyanathan
BBC News Magazine; (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/8585999.stm)

A Bulgarian official has been sacked after being caught milking a virtual cow on the hugely popular online farming game, FarmVille. So what is it about it that's made it so popular?

At the end of a hard day seeing to patients at the surgery there is more work to be done. Tending to the crops, feeding the cows and making sure the fields are ploughed.

For one GP, who is too embarrassed to be named, the internet game FarmVille has become a part of daily life.

The premise of the game is simple - you are a farmer, albeit a virtual one - with your own plot of land. Your job is to cultivate it and rear animals. You get points depending on how successful you are and the aim is to get the highest score you can.

What would Old Macdonald say?
On her farm, the GP grows potatoes, watermelons and keeps chickens and cows. She never tends to her fields during her working day, but is on it most evenings. "It does seem like a terrible waste of time," she says. "It's like watching trashy TV though, a bit of escapism to help you unwind."

For her and many others, FarmVille has become a guilty pleasure. The game was launched in June 2009, since then more than 80 million people have signed up to it. While it's highly unlikely that everyone who has joined the game plays it on a regular basis, there is no doubting it has a huge regular following, with people around the world, from all ages and backgrounds playing it.

FarmVille is accessed as an application through Facebook and now has its own website too. But it's the game's presence on the social networking site which has given the game such a wide reach, allowing it to tap into Facebook's already large user base. And its availability on social networks has created a new wave of computer gamers, who wouldn't normally go near a console.

Meaningful effect
Like full-time mum Gemma, for whom FarmVille has become part of the daily routine, in-between nappy changes and feeds. Both her sisters and her mum are signed up too. She was initially dismissive of FarmVille when she was asked to join, but is hooked now. So, what is the appeal?

"It becomes a personal experience and something you care about," says Johnny Minkley, a computer games expert. The game has a certain "stickiness" to it, because of the nurturing element involved, he says. "What you're doing needs to have some meaningful effect, like the planting and growing of crops."

The game also has a competitive element - it's about having the best farm and earning the most money to see to its upkeep. But it can also be co-operative and it's possible to interact with your friends' farms on the site by watering their plants and feeding their animals.

The game is free to play, but if you want to buy extra coins to keep up your farm, you are given the option to buy more with your credit card.

Parallels can be drawn between Farmville and the Tamagotchi craze in the 1990s, where people looked after a virtual pet housed in a plastic egg, developing an emotional attachment to their virtual being. But the fact FarmVille has been introduced in an age of social media has had other effects.

For the embarrassed GP, it resurrected an old friendship - sort of.
"There's a girl I went to school with, and who I never speak to, but I now fertilise her crops for her," she says.

To the uninitiated, this behaviour might seem bizarre, but hardened FarmVillers say all of this helps you win extra points and prizes. It is this sense of reward which keeps people playing, says psychologist Dr Mark Griffiths. He describes FarmVille as "virtual Lego", where building something from scratch and seeing it grow gives players a sense of accomplishment and a "psychological high".

Educational tool
Dr Griffiths specialises in researching technological addictions and says what underlies any addiction is the reliance on constant rewards. But saying you are "addicted" to FarmVille is a bit like saying you're addicted to chocolate, he argues.

"What people really mean is that there is a 'moreishness' quality about it. There's nothing wrong with spending hours on it, as long it's not affecting your personal relationships and work."

Others say it is not just a blight, but a downright distraction. It was recently reported that a councillor in Bulgaria was sacked after he was discovered milking a virtual cow on his laptop during a committee meeting. There are those who see FarmVille as a blight on their daily Facebook feed, when every time they log in they discover that Georgia has traded 50 gold pieces, or that Andrew has harvested his chicken coop.

There are many others who agree with the superiors in Plovdiv and the game has its fair share of detractors. There are several Anti-FarmVille groups online, one called Not Playing FarmVille has more than two million members.

"If you are doing this you have... I repeat if you are doing this you have too much time on your hands", writes one member. Another says, "everyone's worried about the swine flu, but I think we need to be worried about this FarmVille epidemic".

Bill Mooney, VP and general manager of Zynga, the company behind FarmVille brushes off these kind of negative comments. "If FarmVille is affecting people in a positive way, then we're all for it," he says.

Tenuous
"The best thing is, FarmVille is played in 5-10 minutes sessions, so you really don't have to get too preoccupied or diverted for a long time. It's more like a coffee break or break from studying."

Does it provide a "real sense of farming"?
Mooney says the game has had other positive benefits, like generating an interest in real farming. Before the game was developed the company did a lot of research into the area, so they could make the game accurate and give people a "real sense of farming".

In the US the appeal of FarmVille is being seen as one possible way of attracting younger people into farming. But at the Scottish Agricultural College in Aberdeen, Alison Campbell who lectures in farming says the parallels between real and online world are limited.

"A lot of the students we have here come from farm backgrounds. It is quite tenuous to what they know to be real life [on a farm]." On a virtual farm, it's all about instant gratification - you don't have to wait six months for your aubergines to grow. But then again, you can't eat them either.

Top five FarmVille countries
1. United States
2. Turkey
3. The Philippines
4. The United Kingdom
5. Italy
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Now I do wonder whether why Philippines, a third world country, would be in the top five? Then personally, it does provide me a bigger garden, than my real little patch, in cyber space. Real opportunity cost is time spent on practising Hebrew! LOL! ^-^

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surviving politics in the office

2010-03-26T00:27:00.004+08:00

It is not as if there is nothing to write... but there are somethings we can't write about.

However, I was cleaning up my inbox, and came across this mail. It is written by a good friend. Though past retirement age, she is still working to 'pass her time' and the salary - extra pocket monies. This way we can afford the occasional indulgences without having to worry about digging into the retirement fund.

It is also a reflection and reaction on how we have had learnt the 'tricks of the trade'. We have been through a life time of grind in the work place - with politics galore.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Title: My job is not without humour!

Incident or rather conflicting instructions by the various directors/bosses of a family owned company, over a small matter:

no. 4 son say "give the keys to JJ"
no. 3 son say "give the keys to AA"
chairman mommy say "move the books to uthant"
no. 1 son say "move the books to office"
no. 3 son say "move the books to penthouse"

So what do i do (as an employee)?
ALL OF THE ABOVE.
How else can i justify my salary?

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Yes, the secret of life if not survival is very often -
- to be able to look at the positive
- if not giggle at the idiosyncracies of the situation.

It is also the typical reality of how one human being wants to assert their power over another, and be the 'head dog' in any community.

So I raise my glass, toast and wish the young ones - good luck!

May the force if not the LORD be with you!

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sunglassess collection....

2010-03-19T11:49:00.005+08:00

I did have second thoughts about the latest range of sunglassess collection. Yes, it is controversial. But it does not mean that if one condones such fashions, one is any less holy.

Recently, a farmville neighbour announces he has Aids. I believe he may be testing us. Would we still associate with him; although it is only through the net. Then we are sponsoring a family of three, with age ranging from 12 to 17. Their Dad has died of Aids; and their mum is a Aids patient. They were rejected by their relatives and the whole village. Though they are staying at a home, on weekends, we welcome them. Hei, are we not worried about the possiblity of catch it.

So it is with a bit of an upstart rebellious attitude, that I have posted the picture below. Does it mean that I am now dabbling in a bit of biblical studies, I am not allowed to look at it or admire it? If so, all the Christian countries should not be housing great works of art by some renowned Renaissance painters, who reflects great admiration of the human anatomy.

The only regret I would probably have, with these collections, is that I would not have the opportunity and/nor the shape to wear it.

....... ^__^ .........

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unheard voices.....

2010-03-19T11:42:00.003+08:00

Every now and then we get a good writer who expresses the situation. However, they are generally not given much publicity in the main stream media. So we need to help.

MALAY RIGHTS
By Shaik Rizal Sulaiman
Shaik Rizal Sulaiman
Posted by Malaysian Unplug

The Malays are 'technically' in power governing the country but it is also this same controlling group that demands the right to correct economic imbalances and disparities for its own race.

What does this say about the 'majority governing' Malay race for the last 50 years? I dare say that most Malaysians (regardless of race) below the age of 40 would like to see all opportunities be spread amongst those who deserve it on meritocracy.

We do not need the keris anymore to tell others to be careful of what they say and do because in the survival of the fittest, the keris is of very little relevance!

If we continue to hide under the 'bumiputera' tempurung as most Malays have been in the last 50 years or more, the catch-up game will just get harder and the gap wider.

If we continue to expect without earning it, we will never learn how to be a race that succeeds on merit. There is NO substitute for merit. The Malay politicians continue to shout about Malay rights and bumiputera rights because the very nature of our local politics is sadly racially biased.

In this day and age, a great nation is built upon joint success stories, meritocracy and the combined hard work of its people WITHOUT any fear or favour of racial biased politics governing our daily policies. Sadly, the Malay politicians have ended up completely corrupt, racialists, twisted religious fanatics.

I am below 40 and as much as I love the 'idea' that Malaysia is tanah tumpahnya darah orang Melayu, I can't help but also feel that this country is for ALL Malaysians alike including the Chongs, the Kumars, the Xaviers, the Singhs & Kaurs etc who were born on the same day in the same hospital as me here in Malaysia.

If we feel that WE (the Malays) deserve this country more than THEM , then WE (the Malays) should have shown them a long time ago that we deserve the 'control all' status.

We have to earn it. The policies FAILED because the very concept of Malay rights or the NEP/DEB is like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it aims to eradicate wealth disparity but on the other, it has made the Malays oblivious of what reality is. Our (Malays) success is only reflected in the 'perceived' political power which today can collapse in a matter of minutes. I would also like to see my children succeed in their country, Malaysia, for reasons that true success should be based upon, which are merit and hard work and NOT because they are Malays or bumiputeras.
For as long as the Malays don't see this, there is very little point in fighting for Malay rights..

It just makes us look more ridiculous. We have taken this notion of being privileged a bit too literally in that it now simply means we want this country and its fruits all for ourselves without accepting the responsibilities that come with it. I blame the MALAY politicians for this because we want to only fight the cause without strategising for the true substance and need of the cause. We have been given fish all the while without being taught how to fish.

It's funny how two different generations can be so diverse in their thinking and the recent elections proved just that... We are no longer concerned with racial problems but more so the never-ending Malay agenda issues. The rakyat has spoken and the landscape has drastically changed. Is this change welcomed? Is it good?

The answer is 'NO'. Because we,the Malays, have been caught with our pants down - we are not ready to compete on any level playing field (we can't even compete on advantageous grounds!). Even with three or five more continuing policies for Malay rights or bumiputera privileges over the next 50 years, we will still be in exactly the same position as we are in today.

The truth hurts and the truth will always prevail. And the truth of what's to come will NOT go away. I am cynical perhaps because I feel that Malay rights is NOT relevant anymore.
The right to be safe, to be treated fairly, to have a world-class healthcare and education, to enjoy equal prosperity, to have good governance, to live in a clean environment and to be war-free is what I want for my Malaysia. NOT for MY race to be artificially powerful.

If we want the Malays to fail, then by all means continue the fight for Malay rights. Go and polish your keris..

Shaik Rizal Sulaiman
Posted by Malaysian
Unplug @ Link to This Post

ps
In recent months we have seen the Syariah Courts allowing quite a few Malays to exercise their rights to a third or fourth wife. Fair, the guy may be able to provide for the financial & conjugal needs of his wives. However, question here is when he has a dozen kids, will he be able to provide a decent education and life to his kids or will he demand for his 'Rights' for subsidy and aid and be a burden to the govt and society.
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baby bulbuls

2010-03-14T01:19:00.010+08:00

Rachel and Wesley - this is for you!

My pigeon orchid now has a nest of bulbul's. Yellow vented bulbuls are quite common in Malaysia. I knew the mummy bulbul was nesting, but did not dare to check on nest or how many eggs there were, in case the parents abandon the nest.

Now just about two weeks later, I climbed up the ladder and took these photos. I thought the parents have left the nest for a while. However, they were quite near. For the first time, I felt the agressiveness of a nursing mother! She actually swopped at me, from behind my head; so close I could feel the wind, if not the tip of her wings! It was so sudden, I had to steady myself on the ladder. By the time I realised what it is all about, she displayed threatening behaviours, stared me in the eyes for a minute or at least enough for me to snap a few shots!

So now I have a family of bulbuls (till the baby bulbuls leave the nest) and tree-shrews; not to mention the resident toads that sings on rainy days! Goes to show how 'uninhabited' and safe, my garden is and has been, for the pair of bulbuls to feel comfortable enough to nest! I have to say I am quite delighted!
This, however, is no big deal compared to the 10 foot python which came visiting to a friend's house. Speaks well of how the 'wild' life has managed to find a life right in the middle of KL, Bangsar!

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fraility of life.....

2010-03-12T02:37:00.005+08:00

Today is a day of many happenings!

First I receive a mail from a friend, who seldom writes; cause she is busy with families etc. Glad to hear she is back to her quilting! You know, quilting can be a source of income! Just that I don't have the patience. She also reminded me that my last mail was on the 23rd of Feb. Well, some one's noticed!

One of the reasons why I have not written is because of work! This is a period of 'I need to be a typical secular, heartless bitch'. Yes, I wrote this statement to a friend; when she complained that I did not pick up her call. March and April are months of negotiations and it is really not pleasant! Coincidentally I was sort of asked officially whether I would like to preach! of course I said no! How could I, especially at this period! Writing an essay or report is possible. But it would be hypocritical to stand on a pulpit and give a sermon; with my frame of mind!

Then, my boss is around! We are talking about restructuring of sorts etc. Yes, I am given a rather good choice. But too many choices offers too many temptations and one gets spoilt with choices too! My boss of many years reminds me that we need to have enough monies for the future; hence to continue working! But does it matter?

It really does not matter. At the closing of the day, I was told of a friend who was called back to God! She is of the same year as me; found out she had cancer just about six months ago. So frail is life.

So the moral of the story?
To day, I have to choose between ensuring a secure income, at least for a few more years. OR why bother; We don't know when we are called! No I am not being fatalistic.

Crux of the issue is, and someone rightly commented, I am scared to commit my life /future to HIM.

So much easier to just use the excuse of 'I've got work'.

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.. a tempayan shower..

2010-02-23T22:01:00.003+08:00

Over the weekend, the weather has been really hot.

Even the 'tangi' or tap water was so heated up. So my brother was commiserating over how we need cold showers. The best way to get 'cold' water was well water, or water stored in tempayans. Tempayans are earthen jars. So Loong delivered one to my house.

And yesterday was a historic day. I had a back to basic shower and cold one too!
Remember the old day when we do not have piped water? We have to pour a bucket full of water over our head. The water would be so cold and a shock to our system that it is generally followed by a 'scream' and some jumping on the spot? This would be followed by two or three buckets before we apply the soap? Yes, it was great feeling.

We also have lost the physical exercise which comes along with it. We are so spoilt nowadays! No wonder there are so many cancer cases nowadays!
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my islamic sisters

2010-02-23T19:49:00.003+08:00

Amidst all the recent religious ho-ha's, we have yet another publicity stun by a Muslim Male. One wonders whether he knows that he is speaking against his own race, ie the female Malay population. Or is it part of the overzealous Islamic male who wishes to put his fellow Islamic females down.

Though no one speaks of it, it is a known fact that our Islamic female Malays are proving to earn their keeps in the academic field. Here I would like to quote a friend. He was attending a seminar. Of the 10 PHD's present, 8 are females. This is also literally represented by the amount of government 'jobs' being handled by them; if we now venture into any government offices.

However, all is not in vain. Though I have never been at all impressed with the MCA or Gerakan Party, I have to give credit to them for 'helping' if not standing up for their Islamic Sisters. Looks like the 'women' of Malaysia is very aware of what is happening; though they may have left the 'political' situations to the men!

Below is article copied from StarOnline.

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Published: Tuesday February 23, 2010 MYT 8:56:00 PM
Women’s leaders slam Cuepacs chief’s sexist remark
By IZATUN SHARI

PETALING JAYA: Wanita MCA and Wanita Gerakan are appalled by the gender-biased statement by Cuepacs secretary-general Ahmad Shah Mohd Zin, who complained about the upward trend of female employees in the civil service, as well as his alleged complete misreading of government policy on the issue.

Wanita MCA chairman Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said Ahmad Shah’s condescending and chauvinistic statement demonstrated sheer disregard and disrespect for women and their contribution to nation-building.

She said it also reflected an utter lack of understanding of the actual state of female representation in decision-making positions and the implications of gender dynamics.

“It is shocking for a leader of an organisation which represents civil servants to express such a blatant gender-biased position,” she said in a statement Tuesday.

Chew was responding to reports about remarks by Ahmad Shah expressing concern over the increasing female profile in the civil service, saying it would have long-term implications on the progress and growth of the nation.

He was also quoted as saying that women civil servants tended to be inflexible and rigid, and thus were unable to provide effective and friendly service, besides their need to go on long leave after giving birth.

Chew said Ahmad Shah’s inaccurate statement showed sheer disrespect for the Government’s intention of increasing women’s participation in decision-making in Government institutions and public administration bodies.

“The Government’s efforts in achieving at least 30% of women in decision-making (positions) would be futile if such gender-biased mindsets continue to permeate society,” she said.

Chew said that Ahmad Shah did not fully comprehend the national policy.

The Cuepacs secretary-general had said that almost three quarters of new posts in the administrative and diplomatic service were being filled by women, claiming that this was “contrary to the present government policy to reserve only 30% of decision-making posts for women.”

The actual government policy is to have women in at least 30% of decision-making posts.

Chew said Ahmad Shah’s inaccurate statement was tantamount to “sheer disrespect towards the Government ... and its international pledge to the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action to ensure women’s equal access to and full participation in decision-making in government bodies and public administration entities.”

She noted that according to Gender Gap Index 2009, Malaysia’s overall rank had dropped to 101 last year from 96 in 2008.

Echoing Chew’s sentiment, Wanita Gerakan deputy chief Ng Siew Lai said it was wrong for Ahmad Shah to question or worry about too many females in the civil service.

“We should not worry too much about the current dominance of female employees in the civil service. This is the nature of progress of society. However, we must also take measures to encourage males to become civil servants,” Ng said.
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Yes! we may just see the silent majority that will emerge one day!
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CNY 2010 ... gimmel, resh and yod...

2010-02-20T04:32:00.006+08:00

Oh! talking about surfing facebook and virtual farming! Not all is bad or a total waste of time you know. Though I have not been spending any time 'studying', I did have had some 'lessons'.

I actually found Greek and Hebrew 'neighbours'. So I tried to 'read'.

As far as Greek is concerned, I am totally lost and Greek is still totally Greek to me! For one, we learnt and use small alphabets mostly in elementary Biblical Greek. So sight-reading or recognization of the Greek alphabets takes time. Saving grace is I could recognise a greek word, without knowing it. However, curiosity is enough for me to find out why modern Greek, at least the computerised Greek are all in Capitals.

On the other hand, though it is very early days in our Hebrew lectures, I could recognise the Hebrew alphabets almost immediately. I mean, lo and behold, I could read the alphabets of a lady's first name - gimmel, resh, yod, transliterated as gry. But my delight is short lived. I have to confess that it is as far as I could go. We have just about learnt the vowels. Hence, I did enlarge the font size to ensure that I have not missed any dots and/or dashes ie the vowels. Yes, vowels are represented by dots and dashes. But there aren't any! Oh well, I would just have to be patient and persist.

See! virtual farms and computer games are educational! Don't pooh pooh things away, too easily.
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... CNY 2010 - technology

2010-02-20T01:38:00.007+08:00

Time has flown. I was looking forward to two more days before we have to go back to reality and real life. Yes, it is that somber. Modern technology ie the computer with its emails have been flying back and forth. Looming ahead is some not so nice negotiations. It will be sorted out, eventually; games we have to play every year and just part of working life.

But I did have a great time for the last few days. Not terribly restful and found out a couple of things! So what happened? Did the normal duty of visiting the elders and relatives, picked up a few Ang Pows on the way. Yup, still unashamedly doing it.

Then I have a confession. I did not do any work ... oops!... I mean study! The rest of the time was spent on Facebook, farming away. But it is not all bad.

Had a more comprehensive insight on the type of people who play virtual farming. Classifying them into couple of groups of 'farmers' are:-

a. Honest farmers:- there are a group of folks who are obviously elderly; taught how to play by their children - to keep them occupied; and be in touch with the 'outside' world and their own children. They are honest folks, as they laboured away on their farm. These generally have less than a hundred 'friends'. But it soon grows as they learn more.

b. Street-wise farmers:- then there is a group, who are obviously 'young', as in not defined by age. These group are obviously IT literate, and have found ways to 'beat the system' or street-wise. In addition to the cursory farming, they spent as much time visiting their neighbours. This enables them to collect if not snatch points ie bonuses and gifts without having to labour much. They also collect 'friends' or neighbours like one would collect dust, and have from a thousand to four thousand neighbours.
Actually a more appropriate description of these group is 'pirates of the sky' or 'vultures of the web'. Many of the honest farmers are amazed as to why one's 'gifts' are snatched away within 5 seconds. One lady actually wrote and scolded them, on her wall. There are ways, of course, to stop such encroachment. Until the Honest farmers learnt of it, they are being exploited. Very much like real life. Meanwhile 'ignorance' is bliss'.

I believe that Farmville is making millions for Facebook or Zyxna. I am sure there is a 'counter' which collects the number of hits, every time one visits a neighour. Such hits would be sold to advertisers; not that many people actually have time to read the advertisements on the side.

Meanwhile, for the last few days, I have made use of and took advantage of such knowledge. Why farm so labouriously?
- Make use of what we know
- and/or take advantage of the position we are in,
- or be ignorant and be exploited.
All very much part of life, whether in an ordinary game of virtual farming, secular life or religious institution.

Not for me to judge. We just have to answer before HIM, when at the appropriate time!
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of not so young birds and the bees...

2010-02-17T11:31:00.007+08:00

It is immaterial whatever may be in-stowed for and ahead of us, we do need to take time-off. Hence we dressed up to the theme of 'bling-blings' and let our hair down. We have had a great time at a 'bee..ow..tehful' coming of age party!

The most memorable part, other than this really tasty cheese and lemon cake, were the songs played during the dancing session!

the young and not so young birds and bees gyrating

to HonkyTong woman, Black magic woman and Red Red Wine, the Hustle, the twists etc... remember??? if you don't you are definitely a very young bee!
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CNY 2010 .... roar of the tiger...

2010-02-17T11:01:00.007+08:00

We have started the Lunar New Year, with the roar of the golden tiger!

To me the roar, is represented by the heat that we are experiencing for the last three days! Though I have not been able to find any documented proof of the temperature, I seriously believe this must be the hottest ever! One could actually feel the sun scorching down on us, burning our skin. Then it would invariably be followed by a huge thunderstorm and rain.

Doubt it will get any better, with the Equinox approaching in the month of March. In case you don't remember, the Equinox is when the sun passes directly over the Equator; and we have equatorial climate. This is also a stark contrast with the news of severe winter storms that are belting down on the folks up North.

Coming back to the year of the tiger! There are a couple of hear-says. The first hearsay states that it is not a good year to get married. Why? Simply because the word tiger pronounced in some Chinese dialect means 'hardship' or 'foou'. Certainly, the one good thing we could look forward to is - there will not be so many wedding dinners to attend; hence unexpected out of pocket expenses. The last few months if not year has been incredible with the number of weddings we have all attended.

Then again if the experts are correct, the 'double dip' in the world economy may just happen and we will all have a very 'foou' of a time.

Neither should one have children, from the second hearsay. Children born in the year of the tiger may have the fierce nature of the tiger! I would have thought we definitely need to be or have the aggressive nature of the tiger, in order to achieve our goal, in view of the self-prophetic 'hardship/foou' period, isn't it? Wouldn't it not be is a necessity if not postive trait!

A center-piece of mandarin oranges and the golden tiger

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leaving the nest....

2010-02-17T09:53:00.007+08:00

I started this with the title of 'letting go' but decided that 'leaving the nest' would be more appropriate.

We hear versions of this phrase - 'letting go' in most religion. In Buddhism it is 'not to be attached' to our material world, but to sought emptiness / nirvana. In Christianity, we are to live in this world, yet not attaching to it; and is assured of an eternal life.

But 'letting go' is humanely a difficult task.
What ever religion we believe in, all parents have to go through a more real and at hand situation of 'letting go'. This is especially so when it comes to what the chinese implies as 'of our bones and flesh'.

Today our family has just sent our eldest of the Y generation, Alex, to Australia for his further education. Though it is a positive situation and inevitable, and we can all rationalize about it, it is not easy.

Yup, for years, we have watched stood aside, watching Alex fall off the bicycle, hurt his knee and console his pain; literally and figuratively. It was just part of growing up. This time it was letting him go to take his first 'big' step into life - his own life. So though none of us shed a tear, 'letting go' is painful. Painful, as we know that the trials and tribulations ahead are many! We can only pray that we have set a solid enough foundation for him!

There is a positive view though! He is finally free! Away from the naggings of the grandma, mum and aunt! Free to make his fortune and carve his own life. For the moment his blessings are many! For he knows that the Lord is with him!

Three generations together!

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another day in paradise...

2010-02-13T02:15:00.005+08:00

Well, there was a plan to do many things. But as usual, things get hijacked, and so did totally different things ....

Went for a funeral service in the morning. Don't know the person, but have to accompany and drive my mum! Obviously, we do such things for the living! Still I got to meet some cousins! Also met with a deacon I have not seen for 10years! Boy, have we not all aged!

Sat through a sermon of which I could hardly make out. I have nothing to complain about the content of the sermon as one could hardly hear what was being said. Think we should send all our 'young' pastors to public speaking courses! Correction! It should be 'Enunciate Courses'! Incidentally, I feel sorry for this man! Soon, if he does not improve himself, he will be massacred by his congregation! Fortunately though, most of the critical ones have left!

Then in the afternoon, took delivery of my lenovo ideapad! Actually expected delivery probably next month! Hope it will last me for the next four years! Played with it of course! Pretty good for $$$ - sleek and small enough to even stick it into my hand bag!

Oh, one more thing. Have to say the Microsoft Windows 7 is really good! Apparently it does not crash like the Vista! Loads of new features that I have to learn. How could one ever think that we are too old to learn.

Last but not least, when I started writing this, the tune of 'Another day in Paradise', by Phil Collins, keeps coming up! Have to confess, I was happy and flabbergasted in not doing what was planned! Think I know now the significance of the tune!

Chorus (of Another Day in Paradise):
Oh
think twice
think about it
it is just another day for you and me in paradise...

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nothing to say....

2010-02-11T02:39:00.007+08:00

I actually have nothing to say about all the things that are happening...

I have nothing to say about:-

- the political situation: It is so predictable. People in power trying to stay in power... the rest of us just get on with living.
- corruption: why blame the politicians? We have colleagues doing that!
- my h....w: have to really start studying. Found out that I have the lowest grade for Greek 2; and we are talking about a very respectable B-! Guess I am really among the 'stars' and not necessarily one of them!
- changing people: how to change people if we cannot change ourselves.
- standing up for what one believes or paid to do: I have felt so much hate from one and so much sorrow from another! Was told it is a blessing. I do not agree! I still believe what the Taoist said - 30% of our life is 'predestined' and the rest of the 70% is of our choice. So don't blame God or gods!
- work: it goes on. January was good. February is closed literally by tomorrow. CNY is the day after.
- leading or mentoring: charisma is not always good as much is expected of and very draining to one.

Am I getting more cynical? No! Just stunned, stumped and stupified! Probably just getting a bit tired at the games people choose to play. I guess I have been 'over-exposed' recently. All these festivities aren't very good! I need to go back for some hibernation. I am feeling stiffled again!

Reminds me of my ex-boss's advice!
"You are a race-horse. You sprint to and win at the finishing line. Be careful! remember to take a break."

I do look forward to the CNY break. Need to energize. But alas! it will be too short. There will be no more long break for the next six months. By which time, the end of 2010 will be within sight! Loads can happen. Some of us will make or break! Not a prophecy - just observing history repeating itself. Perhaps I should expand on the latter for my Church History reflection paper!

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Hanoi trip 13.... antiquitiy and others..

2010-02-02T17:49:00.006+08:00

Beneath the openess in the name of tourism monies we were reminded of where we are...

This is the Russian Jeep that took us back from La Ca to Sapa and civilisation.

a government school...

flag right in the middle of the buffet table of the luxury junk at Halong Bay

Not a fair comparison as situation is different; But sure reminds me of the recent sms scare where we are to take out all symbols of our faith. We should not be subtle of who and what we are. Not an easy choice - survivor or martyr.
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hanoi trip 12.... motorbike taxi

2010-02-02T06:33:00.004+08:00

I don't have photographs! But I could never forget the motorbike-taxi ride I have had.

Imagine this.
The terrain:- Road looks more like a dried out river bed full of rocks and pebbles.

Gradient of roads:- Mostly 45% gradient; up and or down.

The load or passengers:- other than the driver and I, there is our overnight backpack for three and two bags of provision.

The set-up:- our backpack was placed in front of and on top of the handlebars, between the drivers hand! Provisions was neatly packed in a box and securely tied to the back of the motorbike. I am wedged between the box and the driver!

My Ride:- As we traversed up and down the hill, I had my eye closed, praying for travel mercy. Talking to the villagers as we passed them, the driver was going slowly. He did the latter probably because I was pulling down on to his jacket for dear life. In retrospect, I could have strangled him and have transferred my fear.

Anyway the second part was most hilarous, now that I could talk about it! After we dropped off the first bag of provision, the driver threw away the box. Then he put the provision on top of the backpack. Only problem with this is - it was not secured. So after the first bend, I saw him, took his left hand off the handle-bars as the provision started to slide off. So for the rest of the journey, I transferred my hands from hanging on to the driver's jacket to holding on to the provision.

Through the rest of bends and winds of the mountainous 'streets of La Ca, Sapa' I was hanging on to a pear on my right hand, and a cabbage (not Savoy cabbage, mind you) on my left hand, with the drivers body wedged tightly between my arms.

Yes, it was a memorable journey, my motorbike-taxi ride! Heroic even, especially when I found out that it was our lunch that I have safe-guarded!

Would I do the whole Hanoi trip all over again? No question about it - a hearty Yes!

Why?

We need to get out of our boundaries of comfort and be reminded we are alive!

Foolhardy? No!

We are being tested every day. Though it may not be a physical danger in our comfort zone, we sometimes die upon our spiritual life, going through the motion of worship, without really seeking HIM!

Deep?

Yes - very deep!

To what depth do we know HIM?

I am far from knowing HIM, and still with great shallowness!
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my garden... yellow flowers etc...

2010-01-30T23:40:00.005+08:00

My first bloom of the yellow hibicus; a bit out of shape though!

Got this from a friend in Johore. Imagine a bush full of this bloom; except I do not have the space for it.

A local orchid which was fashionable once, before the new hybrids were available.

another of local orchid collection..

Hanoi 11... streets of Hanoi..

2010-01-30T23:10:00.012+08:00

Like all developing countries, motorbikes are the most common mode of transport. There are just so many of them. Have decided to make it a point to learn and get a licence for motorbikes. Rationale - motorbikes seem to be the fastest and most appropriate for city and rough terrain.

Another pointer we learnt from our guide, if we need to cross the road, we just walk into the road, slowly; and the bikers will know how to avoid the pedestrian. Good advice. Except he forgot to tell us not to wear long sleeves, where it could be hooked by the handle bar, like me. Yes, when that happened, I dived into the bike, before I fall and dragged on the road. Landed on the driver, did a 360 roll and stood up on my feet with only a small scratch on my wrist. Praise the Lord!

After the incident, every one, including the biker, and her child just went on their way merrily; without a word to me. I actually expected to be beaten or thrown into the Vietnamese jail. Guess accidents are common and life is also pretty cheap in the third world country too!

vendor soliciting business, expecting the bikers to stop.

view of motorcycles coming at us, whilst we were on a trishaw..phew!

motorcycle 'traffic jam'

view from a french restuarant... yup we did know when to take a break. Only problem we forgot to take a picture of the number of 'pho' or beef noodles we have had..

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Hanoi trip 10 ... ladies of the hills..

2010-01-30T22:41:00.012+08:00

I have to give tribute to the ladies of the hill.

Remarkable ladies of the Black Hmong.. who
- held my hand literally over the steep, muddy and steps of the hills and valleys.

- wore plastic slippers but walked sure footed like a mountain goat over rocks and pebbles; whilst my legs wobbbled around, in an expensive New Balance trekking footwear!

- carried a heavy bamboo basket; packed with their handicrafts; whilst we could hardly carry ourselves over the hills and valley

- made shapes of animals with straws as they walked, making friends; waiting for the opportune moment, to sell their wares to the unsuspecting, hapless if not breathless city folks!

However (and with a sigh!) all 'progress' and 'modernisation' comes with a price! Not that I was not grateful; but my Hmong lady was trying to flog off a cushion cover to me for 130,000 Dong or about US$100.00. I could probably have bought it for nothing more than US10.00 in town. Even tried to remind me that she helped me!

The insistent bugging irritated one of our super-fit fellow travellers so much that he actually said 'how could they prostitute (and he meant insistent bugging) themselves for US$2.00'.

Which leads me to mention and I did ask 'where are the men' or 'where is your husband'? Answer - they are at home, looking after the children. Then again, I have to admit, that I have not seen so many men carrying and caring for children, around where we 'home-stayed' in the village. In the city square of Sapa, it was only ladies who were 'trading'!

I like to think that it was strategic that all the women folks were involved in the tourist trade, as their clothing were traditionally very colourful. Best not to let 'people' know that I honestly think that women are the stronger species. This is especially so when it can be quoted from the Bible that women should listen to their men and not be heard in Church! LOL!

Do you know that the eldest among them is only 28 years of age? But the hardship of working the fields and the harshness of the weather are reflected in their faces!!!

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Hanoi trip 9 ... trekking...

2010-01-30T21:58:00.015+08:00

After the last four years, of no exercise, but work and assignments, the trekking was more than a bit of shock to the body system. Not only my legs wobbled literally, I discovered my hip joints as they ached. Apparently, all these natural wonders will soon be flooded out for a dam. Not sure when, so please, go soonest!

Yup this is the start of the trekk. We were told we are going to stay somewhere down there.

among the terraced fields of the Hmong villages...

finally the river bed ...

One of the tributaries of the Red river.

I did remember to stop and admire the handiwork of God...
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hanoi trip 8 ... home-stay

2010-01-30T21:48:00.003+08:00

Home-stay seems to be such a novelty if not the fashion for tourism for the West.
This is especially so in countries which does not have basilica, temples and ancient ruins!

I suppose it is a novelty for the many of the current post-modern Western generation, who has not lived in a wooden house, waking up literally to the call of the rooster! This is a direct contrast and to quote our friend, Helen, 'I grew in this type of house, where I need to tap the rubber trees before I go to school'.

Irony is - our generation grew up in such living environment; worked like hell to get out of that 'poverty' level. And we now pay US dollars to stay in one! and for our holiday too! I suppose we could also view this as a humbling reminder not to forget that 'poverty' is still very much around!

Our 'home' for the night - no bed bugs to disturb our sleep! Honestly, even if there were any, we were all so tired that we would not have noticed even if the bed bugs carried us off to their den!

Dinner arrangement..

Sleeping arrangement...

keeping warm by 9pm

Waking up to the sound of rooster's cookadoodle-do, and this sight!

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hanoi trip 7, .. laughing cow..s

2010-01-30T21:31:00.011+08:00

It was not intentional. But this trip is almost a trade-visit. Just before the trip, an ex-colleague who now works for Laughing Cow, tells me that Vietnam is the largest market for the company, in Asia, worth more than US10m. Not surprise, since Vietnam was a French colony.

So every where we went, we were served and saw the familiar Laughing Cow being stocked in a chocolate shop in Sapa...

Ordinary grocery shop ... verses our modern hypermarkets..

...served ... after a 14km trekk ... in the middle of no-where - actually it is a little village that I am just too exhausted to remember its name ...

... baquettes sold as street food...

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hanoi trip 6.. culture...

2010-01-30T21:23:00.004+08:00

There are some things we cannot run away from. The Chinese!

Yes the Lunar New Year is two weeks away! Doesn't matter whether it is Chinatown in San Franciso, Petaling street or Hanoi. The red and yellow laterns and deco are out.

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hanoi trip 5 ... accomplishments..

2010-01-30T20:57:00.014+08:00

Mostly we like to collect a list of 'accomplishments', whether it is academic, an antiquities of wealth or just something most mundane. I have mine. I have swam or rather dipped into the North Altantic Ocean, North Sea ie Artic Ocean (?). Obviously we have had to add the North Pacific Ocean, at least part of it, in the list. Not sure if it is a good example for the young ones though!

Last take before we make the plunge..

Yes, we did jump. The water was so cold, that it took more than my breath away!

Mission accomplished...

Our antics did give our local guide a near heart-attack. He was so worried that he actually got a bouy ready to throw at and for us. We did set a record for him. Our friend, Helen, though disapproving, did remember to photograph a memento for us. So we do have to register it for record.

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hanoi trip 4 ... animals we met...

2010-01-30T20:47:00.009+08:00

This is just a collection of animals we met...
Pet goats foraging for themselves on the hills... soon to be served on the table for food. Wonder how the locals catch them ... probably in the night when they find their way back to their Vietnamese barn?

A pot-bellied Vietnamese pig that Denise Richards keeps as pet...
Buffalo taking a rest right in the middle of the 'road'.. Notice the shadows? It is us city-folks snapping photos.

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hanoi trip 2 ... flowers of Vietnam..

2010-01-30T20:31:00.009+08:00

Many things are lost in the name of progress. Flowers do not fare any better.

Wild indigenious Orchids ????

Wild flowers growing on bunds of rice fields...

alpine plants found only in someone's garden, as the fields are cleared to plant rice.

wild alpine flowers...

red cherry blossoms that we now immitate with plastic ones for Chinese New Year

real white cherry blossoms..

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hanoi trip 3 .. looking down to earth..

2010-01-30T20:14:00.006+08:00

Yup I am looking down on earth from above the cloud.

Clouds have never looked so soft and fluffy before..

Usually we look up at the sky, but now earth is peeping up from beneath the cloud...

Cross section of clouds/sky - earth - and sea..

Just another point of view. Thanks to my new toy...
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hanoi trip 2 .. heavens birth...

2010-01-28T01:54:00.016+08:00

what the Confuscious said is true ..

"the HEAVENS BIRTH .... nature in its natural glory at halong bay......

and the HEAVENS WILL LOOK AFTER ITS OWN.....

- here we met a girl child with her siblings ... hardly old enough to look after herself... over steep and difficult terrain ... in freezing temperature ....in abject poverty... walking probably to somewhere ... and no adult in sight...

- back at home now, we 'rich and civilised people' worry about hepatitis B, H1N1 etc..etc..

But this is their playground
and a round ball of mud ... their toy....

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hanoi trip 1

2010-01-24T02:45:00.007+08:00

Well, it is good to be back, alive and kicking.

Trip has been memorable. Secret is -
a. go with some one half your age!
b. better still - let them plan it! Their enthusasim for life or at least their sense of adventure is just beginning.
c. go on trips planned for Westerners. Why? they want to see things that we take for granted, or do things like trekk for 14km a day - non stop; except for half an hour break for lunch! We need 'to do things' - every thing must be result-orientated. This is as opposed to stopping and enjoying the moment!

Overall lasting impression?
d. my legs wobbled (literally) over, up and down, on one of the steepest mountains, at Sapa, Vietnam; where the Hmong villages terraced their fields! Hits home the fact that I need to exercise; and must do Tibet before my legs could no longer handle it!
e. was knocked down by a motobike in the middle of Hanoi city. Did a double roll and stood up without a scratch!
f. jumped into the waters at Halong Bay, at about 4degrees C. Just so I could add North Pacific Ocean into my list of Oceans and Seas, I have had 'bathed' in. It gave the tour guide called Power, a near heart attack; to quote him - we are the first Asian and female tourists in his charge and experience of ten years, that jump into the bay in winter! Water was so cold that it took more than my breath away!
g. got 'kidnapped' and taken to another hotel. Apparently it is a typical trick done to tourist. Hotel turns out to be relatively cheap and four star standard!
h. doesn't matter what background we were from, and how we are brought up! if we cannot let go of our past and move forward, we are what we were! A lesson I seem to witness or reminded ever so often!
i. missed the flight, although we were standing in the long queue! Just another of our Malaysian inefficieny!
j. So we miss the first part of the journey. Originally supposed to spend two days in Kunming, cross the Chinese border in an overnight bus (with bunker) into Vietnam. Other than the fact that I have had to pay double fare, apparently, we were lucky that we missed this part of the trip. Our Friend threw away her towel-blanket after the bus journey!

Last but not least, Yup, my God and Lord, Jesus Christ, is with me where ever I go! Amen!
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fruitful week

2010-01-17T04:36:00.004+08:00

In a couple of hours, I begin my 'trip' from Kunming to Hanoi!

It has been a very fruitful week. Finished one language and starting another. Boss came to discuss this year's plan. Should be exciting as we are planning above the line advertising by Mar! Attended first of a series of lectures on Church History! This year should be interesting!

Heard a couple of things which are not nice. The only reaction is 'not sure how they will answer God for their actions'. Saw another set of actions which are not nice either. If we are any less mature, it would have been a stumbling block. Definitely does not leave a good taste in the mouth! If these have had happen in the secular world, I know it would not have been acceptable and know too well, its consequences!

It was the first day of the 12th lunar month two days ago! Had a dream too! Another layer of 'onion skin' has been peeled off; and I am beginning to understand things a bit clearer! Was asked to 'come back'. Glad to say - reaction was an automatic - 'no'. A conscious choice!

Just glad that I have decided to 'wait upon the Lord'. In this case it literally means not being aligned, whilst waiting for the situation to unfold.

Also found out that we have had been pigeon-holed. Though administratively, it is 'less messy', it also reflects our human tendency's need for a comfort zone. We compartmentalise people so we know how to handle them. We have yet to learn the depth of really depending on God, walking in faith and not knowing the future!

Meanwhile, the story would be:- we have to make our own choice and walk our own path and answer for our own actions, one day - before God!

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Bye Greek and hallo Hebrew..

2010-01-13T23:44:00.006+08:00

Right we finished our Greek 2 finals last night! Oh well, it was good! It was also a relief. So we all went for teh tarik after that! Think we were pretty 'zonked-out'! Well, some of us are still trying to recover today! So we have coined up such terms like 'post Greek syndrome'. Had the opportunity to say to one 'now you know what it feels like to have post MCS syndrome'?

How was it overall? Think we will all pass, quite respectfully! Worth the effort? Yup! Think we will all look at the Bible at least the translation differently. It could have been slightly different! Does it affect our faith! Of course not!

The Lecturer said it was much more interesting and enjoyable teaching us compared to full-time students! We enjoyed this Greek 2 session too! But it was really because the lecturer was very knowledgeable and confident. Otherwise he would not have been able to withstand the many other theological questions we asked!

But I have a question for myself! Other than the fact that I do like the 'thou's, the "thy's" and the "thee's", am I continuing my studies because of the adrenaline high? Hor Hor Hor! Yes, I do wonder whether it is the adrenaline high that I like more than the real study!

Anyway I have got myself into more 'trouble'. Just came back from biblical Hebrew! But I believe I would enjoy my Palsm in another light; if I survive the next four months!

Oh! I do have to bring my alphabets with me, next week. I am off to an overland trip from Kunming to Hanoi! Though we are not having weekly but monthly tests, I better not leave things to last minute! Also half the class are half our age - can't loose out to these young, innocent brats! See - I give myself more pressure than anybody ever could!
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pigeon orchids..

2010-01-11T17:06:00.006+08:00

This is my 'messy' orchid. It is messy when it is not flowering, with roots and 'wooden twigs' all over. However, when it flowers, it does look gorgeous! Flowers at extreme hot and dry condition. It is a common indigenous orchid, don't know the latin name! Commonly called pigeon orchid as flower looks like a pigeon in flight!

Pictures taken with my new toy - EXLIM EX-Z33! Recent Birthday present - indeed!
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minor issues...

2010-01-11T15:18:00.004+08:00

Right... this photo, of a Java church in Indonesia, really shows that our media and our government has no solution to the problems at hand.

Instead of trying to boost our economy, they fan the interest of a small group. The economy is so bad that they issue Government bonds twice.

When the allocated bumiputra shares were not taken up; they then force EPF to take up the rest.

Please lah! Look into the real poverty of our fellow citizens, bumiputra or otherwise, of the country!

Same old trick of divide and rule.
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malaysians at heart

2010-01-08T15:00:00.006+08:00

Well here we go again.. with the latest, dirty, under-hand politics...
So we wake up to news of molotov being thrown into churches...

Yup the powers-that-be are up to their tricks again ...
a. either to topple the Selangor government
b. and to find another common divide ie religion.

The 'Race' card no longer works. They lost majority support from their own people of similar religion and race, in the March 8, 2008 election. So they now utilize and magnify the issue of the High Court decision to allow 'Allah' being used. This is inspite of well known, well read Imans and Islamic leaders saying that word 'Allah' will not be 'sullied' if used by other religion or race.

Apparently the-powers-that-be fear that their fellow Muslims will be 're-converted' to another religion if other religious faith uses 'Allah'. Don't we wish that conversions are so easy. I have more faith that my Muslim neighbours are much smarter than that!

Our Prime Minister denied angrily. Yup! Like we believe he has nothing to do with all the other alleged 'things' flying around. They must really think that the citizens of Malaysia are really so stupid and brainless!

Well, at least Malaysia is once again in World headlines! Regretably, there has not been much or anything positive.

When the Gajah bergaduh, we semut gets trampled. For most of us, we are just ordinary citizens, but very Malaysian at heart...

May Allah have mercy on us!

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V9

2010-01-02T21:31:00.004+08:00

Yup, the last few weeks of last year was a bit of a rush!

But the last two days was more of slowing down and gearing for the 2010!

I just want to register that I finally got myself a new V9. My birthday and new year gift to and for myself! Indulgence? But of course! I have plenty of excuse! My LCD of the 'old' phone is kaput! My sister-in-law stepped on it, unknowingly, of course!
It was new year's eve, and I needed to send her off to the airport, for her holiday in Japan!

Yes, it is an indulgence! Yes, it is good to be able to afford stuff without having to worry too much! Won't last forever, but I am indeed so, so, so blessed!

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new life begins...

2010-01-02T21:06:00.004+08:00

A friend called today and asked for the homework that needs to be done! I very gungho-ly and actually told him to forget homework. After all this is the 'last' weekend for us to relax, enjoy the peace and enegerize for the rush to begin on Monday 4th. So we could begin another year ready for a good fight with and for the Lord!

Little did the fact hits home as much as when I just turned on Facebook. Earlier around 3-4pm, there was a lot of 'enhancement' going on; with a lot of interuption. Now I realise that there has really been a lot of enhancement going on! You see our time of 3-4pm is the time when most of US would be asleep; hence a good time for enhancement ie update of the software!

So now after our dinner, I went back to Facebook! True enough all the 'christmasy ' offers were removed. After nearly a month of 'new' snowy, christmasy presents available almost every week, it is back to the normal. So normal that it is almost drab!

It really hits home. The festivity is really over! How right was my 'advice'! How boring and how real.

Come Monday, it is back to business! Personally, it means I have to fill in and sign up for the various things! Sigh! How sad! Once, time seems to fly and we don't really notice such things! However, I do seem to be able to notice and feel the passing of time nowadays! Probably it also shows that age is catching up! Or another way of looking at it is - we became more aware of ourselves, things happening around us as we mature! Fortunately, I have no regrets and have lived as fully as any one could.

Right, tomorrow is Holy communion! We shall make a new convenant for the new year, walking with and fight for the LorD! Amen!
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Happy New Year..!!!

2010-01-01T00:05:00.005+08:00

okay the clock has just striked 12. I could hear the firecrackers going off at Lake Gardens.
I did not go to any watchnight services! Neither did I tried to get invited to any parties; and infact turned one down. I am sitting by choice, blogging away.

I am glad to say that I do not feel lonely! Unlike those days, I do not need to be with people! I am contented with myself. I think that is what silent retreat is all about.

Many of us cannot be faced with the prospect of being left alone. Being alone means we have to face and look at ourselves. I think the most difficult thing to accept is one's shortcomings! Sadly, many of us could not face that. The hurt, pain, anger etc. whether it is to one self or another and long hidden in our subconsciousness will rise to the top! If such things are not cleared, how could live with ourself. How do we expect the Holy Spirit to dwell in us or even speak to us?

Well, I am glad to report Lord, that I could quite happily live by myself. If there should really be any more stubborn, hidden black spots in me, and I am sure there are still plenty - cleanse me!

Here is - to the new 2010; and to the another DECADE!
I know it will be exciting. There will be a fresh new start and a lot of walking in faith!

Last but not least, YOU have shown us YOUR faithfulness! Today the High Court has just approved the use of Allah!

May the Lord bless us all!
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Haiz.... to serve or not to serve..

2009-12-27T01:29:00.004+08:00

I don't really know the meaning of Haiz... I heard the young using it. I suppose it is a sigh of sadness and expression of resignation?

However, I think it seems to be a very appropriate expression for the moment! Why? Specifically, for me, I have had been rather introverted and kept out of many church activities. One of the reasons being the time required on reading. The other strangely is that I don't feel the need to 'socialize'. Spending time alone, reading books, journals and articles about God is so much more rewarding(?)!

So over this festive period, I made a special effort to meet people I have not seen for a while. Yes, there is a lot of joy and laughter! There is also a lot of congratulations and shaking hands, when they heard I have finished my course! But the next moment is dreadful. As the next question is - so are you going to serve? After a while I learnt to just say "God willing".

My question is - do we study only to serve? It was definitely not my intention! I know there were many 'scholarly' or 'charismatic' arguments. Sad but true, the mass seem to associate the reason for the need to study His Word to those who serve; or in other word - because one is equipped one must serve! In addition, the general attitude is - we leave the studying to the pastors, the intelligent, rich or even the eccentrics.

Haiz, doesn't one know that one need to study His Word just so we could get to know Him better - even on a personal basis? Things like Daily bread etc are hardly sufficient, not for me anyway! For that matter, my lecturers would have told me that I have hardly scratched the surface!

I do not feel smarter; neither do I feel superior! Should my demeanour ever reflect otherwise, I think I could only equate it with a "more quiet confidence of fulfillment - because I know Him better for myself". Slightly, mind you! It is definitely not because I could serve HIM better now!
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Merry Christmas....

2009-12-25T04:35:00.003+08:00

It is christmas!!!
Another year, another Christmas!

Have to say it is at least 4-5 years that I did not have such a good Christmas! Truly my last paper about/on Exile has laid all the 'ghosts' to rest! And not forgetting no assignment dates looming...

But over the last few days I have had committed myself to attend Hebrew and Church History and wait for this ... promise to teach Sunday School to the not so young! And this is inspite of the heavy work schedule planned! Not sure what I committed to for the moment! The 1st quarter of 2010 will be a killer!

For the moment though, I feel ever so light with no 'burdens'. One of the reasons could well be the amount of ye olde Christmas songs I have sung over the last two nights! The CandleLight Service has been so full of joy! Wish we do not have to wait till and only for Christmas to sing 'christmas hymns'. Am looking forward to the Watchnight Service on the 31st too! Good old Methodist tradition that should not die out, I hope!

Then of course, today we get to open our presents under the Holiday Tree in my virtual farm! That is another story and quite a delight! What is worth noting is that this Holiday Tree is really a Christmas tree! Sad, as it is considered politically correct, with the Americans' to call it a 'holiday' or 'Tinsel' tree - but never Christmas! Wonder who or which group pushes it through! Maybe we could consider Christmas as a hyped up marketing strategy by the marketing and retailing folks! But there are a generation who grew up celebrating the event! So we compromise one group's tradition in the face of political politeness! Was not this groups' freedom of celebration compromised?

Perhaps I could not stop the tide! However, I could insist on wishing every one, of every race or religion:
A very Merry and Blessed Christmas!

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ask if you don't know.....

2009-12-22T20:24:00.003+08:00

We were told a couple of times, in our Greek class, to ask if we don't understand! It is a general statement by our rather pastoral lecturer! Though he did explain a couple of times, I have to admit I still did not understand!

I said to him, politely of course: "not that we do not want to ask, though we do not understand, it is more of we do not know what to ask". May be this is more relevant when studying a language! I mean, if we do not have enough exercises to practice on, or read or speak the language, or how could we apply it?

So it is a chicken or egg situation. So for example: "Ask and you will be given" or told and taught? Even if we ask, God does not necessarily give everything we ask. We don't know what He has in store for us, so how and what to ask for if I don't know!

Naughty as I am, what I did not say to our lecturer is - 'if I did know what to ask, then we are no longer the student but the teacher'.

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done my dues....

2009-12-22T19:51:00.004+08:00

As usual I just had a shelling from some one half my age! Though it is part and parcel of my job, it still takes some getting use to!

Once it was very much a part of the ego! Then we consoles ourself; brings one back to focus as to why we need to do it! We tell ourselves that we need to 'yen', then visualise the chinese character of a knive on top of one's heart! Monetary reasons being one of the main and most important; it is a great antidote, in suppressing the ego!

But this time - the 'revelation' is totally different! I burst out laughing! Why? A thought came from my heart(?). It says "you have paid your dues"!

So I looked up at this young girl and gave her a most serene look which said 'sorry darling, you still have a whole life ahead'!

Yes, I have paid my dues! At least in a couple of days, I am technically and legally retire-able! What a wonderful thought! And at that moment, I did seriously felt a great joy in my heart!

However, now that I have 'got' over it, the only scary thought is - if it is truly God telling me that I have paid my dues, at least in Paul's world, it also means that I have to start doing His Work! Yes, I could quote myself verses after verses, where He will be walking before me; won't put me through things that I would not be able to handle etc. etc. etc. Yet, it is still with some trepidation and fear that I have with the thought! I am only but human!

Okay Lord, bring it on, bring it on indeed! After all those trials and tribulations, it is about time, that my threshold for pain is put for good use for His Kingdom!

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I am hooked...

2009-12-15T09:08:00.002+08:00

Yes, I am in trouble and truly hooked!

Yes, we are talking about virtual farming! It all started with curiosity! I just could not understand why every one has so many neighbours, and could so easily expand their farms!

Then my computer-science undergraduate nephew, Alex, remarked that he has read that due to the current economic situation in US, the rise in people playing computer games had doubled if not tripled.

So curiosity killed the cat! Yours truly found out that we could 'pimp' ourselves and 'Add Fast neighbours'. Lo and Behold, there are so many people pimping themselves! And they could give achieve the maximum size of farm overnight!!!

Okay! So I have now accessed many more people. Only problem is their achievments clog up the News Feed; which we could hide, of course!

Tell you a joke! So in my follow-up conversation, I remarked innocently how these IT people make money. Of course Alex said that it is due to advertisement! But no, I said. To my shame, yes, it is! But I did not know cause my monitor is too small and I could not see it. Joke, what a joke! LOL indeed!

Then the other thing is this Paypal (?) through Credit Cards! How could one spend their monies like or on this? Suppose it is not any more expensive than going to the theatre or cinema! Could imagine if one is snowed in, it is a credible form of entertainment!

Sigh! I am slow, da!

Whatever it is, I do have to stop! It is effecting my other hobbies! Like studying my Greek! Or tending my garden!
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white christmas

2009-12-11T03:03:00.006+08:00

I was wondering whether I should title this as 'life's not fair' or something negative. I decided that 'white christmas' would be more appropriate and positive.

So what's not fair? Life never is fair anyway!

The story is I am trying to wean myself off virtual farms and aquariums! I mean, I have actually acquiesed to a 386 workstation for home use; just enough to do the Word and Excel, so I would not be able to enjoy any of those computer games! Much like cutting my nose off to spite my face!

But I have to admit that Zynga has been doing a good job, upgrading and updating its software. They have not only come out with christmasy gifts and stuff.

The issue is:- I never have enough neighbours to expand; though I may have the cash. I also absolutely refused to indulge in 'paypal' though they did offer discounts. Yet, I have managed to go up to level 31 with only a 12*12 farm. So now, they have even made available for me to upgrade my farm, for a mere $25,000, just so I could purchase Christmas decorations.

Question is:- Oh no! How did they single my farm out? Looks like my farm must have stuck out like a sore thumb in their statistics!

The best is yet to come! Zynga has just made available for us to have a snow-blanketed farm! It has been a while I had a real white Christmas. 'Silent night' has never been the same without the snow!

But, but... I now have a virtual white christmas!!! Isn't it great?
What will we ever do, if we do not have all these modern technologies and inventions! I have had to thank them for the pleasure and company!

Last but not least, looks like the twinhead and now the 386 really have to be binned!
We can't live without modern technology! Sigh!

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wise rabbi...

2009-12-10T16:58:00.006+08:00

Okay! Another good and memorable one that has come around again .....
(source unknown).

Obviously this rabbi has read Eccelsiastes ...

One problem with such advices is that the young don't understand what you are talking about. When one begins to appreciate with depth, the meaning of such words, one would have passed the half century mark?

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celebrate??

2009-12-09T23:34:00.007+08:00

This is probably an old, old, old joke or we have heard it eons ago. But I just got this through the mail; and with visuals too!

It does reminds us, though, that many of us could be mis-interpreting many of God's will if not his Word.

Enjoy!

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
A young priest arrives at the monastery. He is assigned to helping the other priest in copying the old canons and laws of the church by hand.

He notices, however, that all of the priest are copying from copies, not from the original manuscript. So, the new priest goes to the Bishop to question this, pointing out that if someone made even a small error in the first copy, it would never be picked up! In fact, that error would be continued in all of the subsequent copies.

The Bishop says, 'We have been copying from the copies for centuries, but you make a good point, my son.'

He goes down into the dark caves underneath the monastery where the original manuscripts are held as archives in a locked vault that hasn't been opened for hundreds of years.

Hours go by and nobody sees the old Bishop . .

So, the young priest gets worried and goes down to look for him. He sees him banging his head against the wall and wailing,
'We missed the R ! We missed the R ! We missed the R !'

His forehead is all bloody and bruised and he is crying uncontrollably. The young priest asks the old Bishop, 'What's wrong, father?'

With A choking voice, the old Bishop replies, 'The word was...

'CELEBRATE' !!!

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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trifles...

2009-12-09T20:58:00.009+08:00

"trifles make the sum of life"... charles Dickens (1812-1870)

I was just asked why one wants to do this and that!!! Really it is about pursuing further education ... some more at this age... ????

From now onwards, I think I will change my reply, and quote Charles Dickens. My normal reply has been - why not? Which may have been too defensive or aggressive?
Should I quote Dickens, first it would create a silence! Then one would invariably image an expression of 'she is mad', and/or 'getting more and more eccentric with age'! But I love it - feels so naughty too!

The Oxford Dictionary define 'trifle' as a 'thing of slight value or importance'. Quite true! It is especially so when we pursue an education which does not contribute towards the market value in our career! However, it is no longer 'frivolous' if it does contribute and re-enforce, the conscious choice of a religion, we believe in. Moreover, my 'trifling' with theology, would probably keep me occupied, hopefully nearer to God, and definitely out of trouble!

Then on a lighter note, I love trifles - the dessert! Which reminds me, it has been a while and I should make one this weekend! Hmmm.. what shall it be with? strawberries or nangka?

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long weekends ....

2009-12-09T20:15:00.007+08:00

Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
Starting with this Friday, every week from now till first week of January, will be a short working week and a long weekend! First it is Selangor's Sultan's birthday; then it is Awal Muharram and then it is Christmas; and of course, last but not least, followed by New Year's day! There are perks staying in a multi-raced country!

And yes, I have finished my budget for 2010! It should be the last time I will be doing and living it! Yeah! Baby! Yeah!

However, personally, there are quite a few things to be decided and sorted out, which will be part of the next five year plan!

One of them being - we finished our final exam for Greek 2 on Jan 12, 2010! But guess what - Hebrew starts on Jan 13, 2010! It is going to be a commitment if yours truly decides to take it! First it is a six month thingy! Then we have to take a four hours drive, to and fro, every Wednesday! Foolhardy or dedication? Sigh! Looks like we have to take it on! Why? God permitting, if yours truly ever get to do a thesis it will be on OT and Hebrew is a necessity??????

Talking about Greek - so why bother with Greek now? Cause it was never offered earlier!

Incidentally, three quarters of the way through our Greek 2, we had this realization, among our classmates! How could we have written what we have written, if we have known at least a language?

So we think Biblical languages should have been offered much, much earlier in MCS, if not compulsory! But then, of course, limitations (or excuses) abound, in all us humans! Otherwise, we are guilty of perpetuating the 'unknowing-ness of the lay-people'!

Education truly belongs only to the elite few!

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christmas ...!

2009-12-03T15:11:00.005+08:00

It's Christmas again... isn't it wonderful?

Except that it also means that the calender year is ending! How fast time passes!
It has been a good year! Next year will be even better!

Two days ago, after our Greek class, a few of us commented. If we have had known a biblical language, we would have understood what we have learnt and attempted in MCS!

and I went through eight subjects of OT without knowing a word of Hebrew! I do remember, nearing the end, I was able to access some really good journals. However, it was frustrating not to understand the language!

Never mind, we will do it next year! 2010! I always like the beginning of a decade! It brings so much unknown - which I now no longer fear!

FOR I have learnt to look forward to the new - which is installed for me!

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Anak TEE

2009-11-29T18:23:00.006+08:00

Okay we have started a page called "Anak TEE", on this auspicious day of the Advent!
Originally we were going to call it - Anak TEE-iri. In our National Language it is supposed to mean 'step-child'. Long story as to how it came about! If full time students have their grouses of pastoring, mentoring etc... can you imagine what happens to us part-timers and how we feel!

Guess we are more focused! Most of us are already serving in various ministries, and just want to enhance our ability to do God's work. It does not matter whether our original objective for attempting any TEE is 'a calling'. After the required hours of lectures, we all return to our own homes, churches, work and families. We are all VERY MUCH ALONE.

Hence Anak TEE is a place to simply connect and share our notes, references, books and even our trial and tribulations. Think we could do away with the term of mentoring etc.... But we do really need our fellow students to edge and encourage one another.

After going through the grind, I can testify that it is only through the knowledge of His Word, do we really know our God. We need to digest His Word ie think, question and mull over what we read, then regurgitate and express?. Believe me you, while you mull over what you have read, the Holy Spirit will speak to you.

We will see how the response will be like! God-willing, we hope to encourage and guide our fellow anaks to finish their studies.

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Mulan

2009-11-29T04:15:00.004+08:00

The first big screen, traditionally costumed movie 花木蘭 (Hua Mu Lan) have had left a life-long impression on me.

She was the heroine that I would like to grow up to be. I have had always tried to emulate her. Consciously or unconsciously, it provided the 'spiritual strength'. At my lowest ebb, I remember how she rose above great difficulty, in the battle field. At my high, I am 'Hua Mu Lan', taking on my male colleagues, on equal grounds, in their domain. At a cross road, it is to choose 'family' verses personal glory!

My grandmother, or is it my parents, took me to watch the movie at least three decades ago. Since then Disney has produced two carton version. It was great. But it did not provide the 'human' face or connection, hence reality. I am so glad it is now re-made again. I hope it will provide the same inspiration to many more generations of females!

History: The time setting of the story is uncertain. The earliest accounts of the legend state that she lived during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534). Apparently the story was expanded into a novel during the late Ming Dynasty (1386-1644). Over time, the story of Hua Mulan rose in popularity as a folk tale among the Chinese people on the same level as the 'Butterfly Lovers'.

Go bring your daughters and even wives to see it!
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2012 - another aspect....

2009-11-29T03:37:00.003+08:00

I recently heard another view of 2012!

Do you know why so many animals needed to be brought into the ship? It is to ensure that there is enough food for the Chinese! Otherwise the Chinese will starting eating the rest of the two legged animals in the 'ship', when the four-legged ones run out!

Quite a possible thought! Especially when one is innundated by the recent documentaries on how the sharks in the world are being depleted, by the desire for Shark's fin soup!

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2012 - the celebration

2009-11-26T14:18:00.005+08:00

Had a dinner last night! Good to catch up! We are now on the verge to moving on to the next project in our lives! Something to look towards!

Then arriving home, I heard that a friend died in Hong Kong last night. First he was hospitalised, discharged and then found motionless in bed, in a hotel, by the concierge, a few days later; all within a week!

Then this morning the papers reported that H1N1 has now mutated in the cold weather. There were four victims to date. Whether my friend is one of them, we have yet to know!

It does hit a cord. Went through almost the same thing; even with the concierge calling to check if I need room service as I did not leave room for two days!

Yes, I have been blessed that the weather held out till I left. It was hovering around 23-26 degrees Centigrade; although Beijing was hit by snow storm. The weather has plummeted since; hovering at 10 degrees in the day. It is also fortunate too, that this mutation have had not occurred two weeks ago. The thousands of exhibitors and visitors were from all over the world, literally. We would all have been carriers! Imagine, as I write, now, hardly three weeks later, 2012 would have had arrived at our shores.

So, do we really need to worry about 2012? There are more pressing and real issues at hand which would have brought the same consequences.

Vanity! Vanity! All is vanity! We know this well from Ecclesiastes! Why worry about the future if we cannot appreciate the present! Why worry whether we do not want to be like this or like that; or registered with this institution or that; or this church belongs to this clan or that.

Please, let us focus on and celebrate, the Blessings and the Life, we currently have at hand!

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2012 the movie

2009-11-25T14:16:00.005+08:00

Latest show and talk in town.

Well our club helped organized a charity film premier. As it was a two and a half hour block-buster, it has been quite successful in the fund-raising aspect. None of us have tickets to spare, as it was sold and re-sold for charity!

The movie, 2012, of course, has renewed talks of End times; especially among the adults, religious or otherwise. I remember I was fearful when 1984 was approaching. That's because I read George Orwell's 1984 - which speaks of a thoughtless, conforming society! Total contrast with 2012 - total annihilation of the world through 'natural causes'; latter being highly contributed by man though!

However, I would like to register how my fourteen year old nephew's take on the movie. When asked what he thinks about the movie - he said it is about Noah's Ark.

Great! So - 2012 is the next generations modern interpretation of Biblical stories! Much like we read DC comics - Danny and Beano, they read Mangga comics and watch anime films!

I am glad that in his youth and innocence, he has not realized the issue of how the ice-cap is melting and the world will probably go through another ice-age. I am also glad that his Sunday School teacher has probably not told him anything about End-times! If the scientists are correct, it will probably be during his life-time. However, if he does not know about that, it could also mean that we, the adults, have failed to teach him much about greening the world.

But this is another and more positive take on the movie:-
Let us interpret 2012 as a "celebration of our young ones' innocence and youth"!

Let them, or at least my nephew, retain his innocence for as long as he can.

Let his priority be - how to get a girlfriend; his favorite song being - 'my first kiss' (or something to that effect)!.

Let us, the adults, worry about another 'End Times'!

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compartmentalizing.......

2009-11-23T17:19:00.005+08:00

I have downloaded the necessary documents for theology.

I have to get people to sign and write 'nice' things about me in order to go for further studies. At this level, it would have had to be an educational pursuit and not so much of a pastoral evaluation! Correct?

Of course, I said that with sarcasm! I could understand that we need to weed out the tares and check if one is a 'qualified' wheat for the Course. No doubt, one could get a 'pseudo' certificate. But hei, we are talking about a Certificate, from a respectable institution and highly qualified lecturers!

So tell me, how can I not 'compartmentalize'? Mind you it is not just in Paul's world, but within our Christian Society, that it would be necessary! It is necessary because we have to live within the System; so we abide!

I have oft been called a 'rebel'. But no, it is not a rebel per-se, but a dangerous thinker! When one thinks, one questions! Take for example, this statement from an admired knight - 'I am not against you, neither do I agree with you'.

Only problem with that statement is - one will never be viewed as a true blue blooded team-player! Why? because one is only luke warm. Even Jesus said that "if you are even luke warm towards me, I will deny you in front of my Father".
So if one is viewed as such, forget about trying to climb the ladder, within or without Paul's world.

So tell me, how do we not compartmentalize, eh?
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mild concussion..

2009-11-20T22:17:00.005+08:00

Right I am playing catch up!

I just found out that we will be having a public holiday on and each Friday from next week to the 1st of January 2010 (except for the 4th of December). The last time it happened in my working life, is because I need to clear my Annual Leave.

Imagine that - a long weekend for the rest of the year! I really need that. Though there is a lot of work like the budget to be done! Yes, I am just starting. Then again, I could take a rather flippant attitude of 'Hallo it is just figures'! Like the Chinese man said 'better for the sky to count than man'.

But I really do need the long weekends! I fainted or should I say I lost consciousness in the toilet of the plane on the way to Hong Kong. Yes, I agree it could well be because I was really trying to do a lot, as I will be away for more than a week. I flew on a Saturday. In the five days before, I was trying to do two weeks work in one!!

Then the fainting could be a fault of a turbulence. I definitely hit against the door and lost consciousness! In fact there was a distinct mark of a door knob on my cheek and the pattern of the carpet on my forehead. Apparently some one heard the fall. I woke up to some one knocking on the door. When I answered, I was left alone. Imagine being wedged between the door and the toilet seat. Must have fallen like a bag of potatoes. Anyway I did managed to extradite myself; walked to my seat.

The fuss and real consequence came about when I woke up from a nap and threw up. Despite the number of miles I have flown, I have never needed to use the 'bag'. Take my advise, learn how to open it before you need to use it. It was a miracle that I managed to throw most of the breakfast into the bag. For that matter, I seriously think that all passengers should actually check or actually use it and not assume that there is a life-jacket under the seat, until an emergency!

Now the real story begins! I had a lot of attention - including three doctors who were on board. Apparently I could be having a mild concussion! Incidentally, I now know that the worst and most silly thing to do was to ask a 'patient' how and whether they are alright. It so happened that there was a flight operations executive on board. Yes he was concerned, asking loads of question. Got me a bit irritated. I turn around and told him that he should know better what to do as he would have had more experiences with cases like mine and would like to know my rights as a passenger ie to sue MAS or what. Yes, I had the presence of mind to ask if I could sue - always the rebel!

Well, I was given a ride on the wheelchair to the airport doctor. It was rather embarassing as the lady who pushed me was much smaller in size! Glad I did take the ride cause my head was spinning looking at the carousel for my luggage. Oh, though one may not be too conscious, but there I was wheeled through a special immigration check.

So the airport doctor thinks I should have Xrays done at the local hospital.

Oh! I have to record this. Not sure whether it is my concussion; but I thought the doctor's name was Greek; Cause his name was very wriggly! Apparently Doc said he is from Adelaide and not Australian! Suppose it is true that Adelaide-ians are more refined with all those vineyards around??? See the irony?

The next big excitement is - I was taken to the Princess Margaret Hospital in an ambulance. Oh I did have the presence of mind to ask the ambulence personnel to take a picture of me in the ambulance, because I need to blog it.

After four Xrays and a ecg, I was declared fit. I refused a blood test as it is already 4pm. That would mean my dear friend Daisy Wong would have to wait for another four hours. Daisy was already with me from 2pm. Also I was worried I would be left without a hotel room. Hotel room would be difficult to find during a Convention.

Cost of hospital bill was HK$570. This was as compared to the Airport Doctors bill of HK$400.00. Was told by the rest of the Honkees that I should have taken the blood test for two reasons. One is that the bill is so cheap; apparently the ecg itself would have cost HK$1000.00. The other is that they have had paid so much through various taxes; at least a friend benefited!

Well the rest of the story is - I slept through the weekend literally. Just before the I fell asleep, I messaged my siblings. I slept through the phone calls and that caused a worried furore back in Malaysia.

But the Lord was with me! Managed to get through the rest of the week! Went to work and picked up some necessities!

Moral of the story? That's it! Will take things easy! Whatever is in store, my priority is to learn more of my God. I will be doing Theology!
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so much happenings.....

2009-11-20T20:49:00.003+08:00

Well, I still have no computer at home. However, it just means that my virtual farming is now done at work! But there is good in having no electronics at home. Managed to study for two Greek tests! Probably won't get an apple, but should at least give a better average than the first three - which was disgraceful.

I just received the quotation of a lenovo, hardware itself cost four grand; inclusive of the other legal copies, final amount is seven grand. A hp is a couple of hundred cheaper. Perhaps a alcheapo nameless taiwanese brand should suffice!

What else? Plenty has happened. Where do we start? Some we can't talk about! Some we don't want to talk about! Some are just too silly to even consider talking about it.
Yes, it has bothered me for a while. End of the day, I am just amazed at how naive we could possibly be.

All things considered, I really believed that most of the happenings and consequences that we encountered could be avoided if we have been a bit more discerning, smart and even be a bit more open about things.

Being a bit more open about things mean - sharing with some one who will probably give another point of view. I mean, if we do fall ill and the doctor say you have developed cancer. Honestly even if we pray about it, the chances are to go to another doctor for second opinion.

But what if it is something which is related to our ego or our principles? So we adopt a stringent life style, keeping away from the vices! Some even keep away from people. But we are not forest monks. We can't even be concrete monks. Not sharing means we are not honest about ourselves.

We can be worried and hide our weaknesses and failings from our fellow beings. But we can't hide from our God you know. Then the other question is - if we can't be honest about ourselves with our fellow sinners, how could we ever pretend to be honest with God?

Do we not know that we are no where near 'holier than thou' just by having a stringent life-style. There is still a black spot in our heart, to which we consciously do not want to face or accept. We can't even pity ourselves for another's treatment of us. To what depth do we know the meaning of the hymn 'I surrender all'?

But we cannot say the above to one who really needs to hear! Why? because we have ears we don't hear with. Instead we adopt a defense - a wall we hide behind.

I seriously believe that the thicker the wall, the harder the trials and tribulations we will have to face. Like a parent, sometimes, we just need to watch the child totter and fall. We can't even pick them up as the child need to learn by themselves how to get up from a fall and take the next step.

All part of growing up - whether as a human or a christian!
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trying too hard....

2009-11-09T22:24:00.003+08:00

So we have been meeting yearly...

So we see one another age physically .... develop idoisyncrasies... but there should be a limit... and yet one cannot but must hold one's silence...

First - dinner at this place which was owned by a few partners - some where at Kung U Fong, some where in Central. Don't even know the name of restuarants! Partners must have travelled aroung Asia. We had a fried fish, which was really cheap when we were young! Then we had a version of fishcake with salted fish! To finish we had kei-chee ice cream with some fruit which I do not know of. All in all we had something like 18 dishes; but such small portions so we were relatively full. It was not a big deal, at least to me, as I have tasted the original in its own country. The only memorable and mentionable is the pigeon smoked in a mixed variety of chinese tea, which was the most impressive.

But the sad thing is - trying to equate a wine with each dish! That was a bit sad! It would be very condescending if I say:-
one do not need to put on airs or adopt a fascade - to make sense of life or as an alternative to the pressures of the current life.

We just need to have a 'quiet confidence, resting in the Lord'.
Maybe I am the lucky one! Neither did I try to evangelise! Just a little prayer of thanks to my God!

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whew......

2009-11-09T22:13:00.003+08:00

okay, it is nearly ten days since I wrote. Loads have happened.

First we have had our annual dinner! Then it's mid Nov. What is done for the year is done! If one had not reached the target, it is too late! But it does not stop some from trying to return, close and cut loss as much as possible.

For me:-
a. I have agreed to take some one on! Yes, if we do not put ourselves in situations, we will never learn - for better or worse! (This is as opposed to trying to stumble another - if we put them in a situation)!

b. I think I have had taken too much on my hands! Thought I was still that young! Is mentally but evidentally not physically anymore.

c. So I am back in my annual Hong Kong Trip, doing my normal stuff....

Otherwise, I believe we need to put ourselves on trial all the time, so that we would not be bored; know our threshold and even know our limits!

Yes, it is a 'never say die' attitude. Otherwise I would have die many times over, literally!

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neighbour...

2009-11-01T16:31:00.006+08:00

My neighbour's renovation is finished. I am now living next to a 'white palace'. It really looks good! However, there will be not be a blade of grass within the grounds! Every available space is cemented or tiled! Sigh - talk about greening the world! Never mind, I will try to make up for it by maintaining my little patch of green!

Honestly a little patch of green does a lot. Under my patch of a Henna tree, hibiscus bush and a Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora); I could grow ferns and even temperate plants like Azalea and tea-roses, in an equatorial climate. That should proof to any one that trees are necessary?

This is how a Surinam Cherry looks like. The family of Tree Shrew (yup, there is a family of them) loves it! In fact they ate most of it, before I could have any!

Needless to say, renovation affects my 'space' too. The back roof is leaking, it has not happened before. Cleared a bucket of sand and gravel from the drain. My pots and plants were cemented literally! Hence I have spent the weekend clearing the drain and re-potting! Not complaining as it was good physical exercise. Got any and every dormant sweat glands working as I was totally drenched after that.

My rather elderly, toothless gardener came and mowed my little patch of 'lawn'. Actually I was contemplating replanting the cow-grass to the taiwnese-grass. Don't have to worry about mowing, with the latter. However, the thought of a monthly, toothless smile has delayed me doing it. Moreover, he needs the money!

The raining season is upon us. So took the opportunity to trim the trees and bushes too! They would sprout quite quickly with the amount of rain water we will get.

That's it! We are now ready for the festivities and the brand new year of 2010!
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wonderful news ....

2009-10-30T20:54:00.003+08:00

We had wonderful news today!

One of the major retail store in town is downsizing. It is the fourth and final stage for the year! Has been happening for the last six months!

How does it affect us? Not much as we have had been conservative any way! But there are and has got many people really upset lor, cannot make up for loss of sales, feel cheated due to loads of support etc. etc. etc.

But that's the way things are going and will be for another year!

Incidentally I had a conversation with some one! We were talking about End-times! Seriously if we watch the news and documentary on cable tv etc, one would really feel that the End-times is just round the corner! There is this Seven Sins, Apocalypse and all the natural disasters such as Tornado. What was interesting, and much nearer to home, is the Anak Karakatoa (sp?) volcano. Seems to be very alive and growing; situated between Sumatra and Java in the Sundra Straits! Oh well, if it is any consolation, if this Anak blows, it would affect the rest of the world. So what ever is going to happen to us, we will have loads of company!

Any advise? Don't watch so much TV! Too much knowledge is not always good! Our grandparents generation does not know what illness they die of; neither are they
deluged with what is happening or can be happening tomorrow!

Just make sure we leave our baggage with Jesus every night. Wake up with a clear conscience to a new day and new beginning; because the first thing I see when I wake up every morning, are the hills and the mountains that our Lord made!

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the fun theory

2009-10-28T15:48:00.005+08:00

The Fun theory.

This video and experiment shows that we can get people to change their behaviour if there are incentives! Incentive here is through the element of fun!

Not sure where and who made this video, as it was sent to me through the mail. Believe it is really a VW ad.

Guess we could relate it to the way we adopt noisy bands into our worship. All in the name of keeping up with the times or at least a way to modernise our form of worship in order to entice our youth!??!!

But we must not forget:-
a. in the video, the underlining statement is that walking up stairs is much more healthy physically
b. in our new form of worship we also need to ensure that the Word of God is instilled.

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what a day ....

2009-10-27T18:34:00.005+08:00

This is one of those days!

First I was told that in spite of changing the fan of my CPU, the hard disk has now crashed! So the IT people offered to lend me a spare hard-disk so I could use it first. This is in anticipation that I will be buying a new one! Looks like I can't or will not be able to save some monies!

Well my 'old' twin head has had served me well - four years and a certificate; and loads of fun and knowledge! Can't complain as it worked out to be about 0.23cents a day!

Oh well! Then there is the additional incentive that I do need a new toy! Was told that the new budget means that my tax contribution has come down at least by two percent! Oh well, I do need to praise the Lord, though! Guess I should consider working for a few more years!

Then I found out that there are alternatives with the agst for Mtheo etc! Very interesting alternative indeed! One less excuse for not carrying on my studies! And with a new pc too! I sure look forward to 2010, Lord, what ever you have installed for me!

In the midst of all that, I had a fall. And I mean a fall! Created such a huge noise - big lump falling flat on my face! Knees took the brunt of fall! Except for some bruising, I can walk!

Then I have Greek 2 test today! All these API, 2API etc.! I have not really sat and studied for it. Sigh!

What - all good things must have a black lining to bring us back to earth? and remind us that it is HIM who is in control? I don't mind! I do need it most times!
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Update: the fall shocked all the Greek out of me! At least I did not do half the questions - so I would have failed last night's paper. Now I seriously have to do well in the rest of the sessions! Otherwise I would not even get a C+ or 3 GPA!
Other thing is - yes, I am walking with limp! Going up and downstairs is really painful. But I am sure it will be healed in a day or two!
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no pc....

2009-10-25T21:58:00.003+08:00

So my notebook is in hospital. It truly needs a new fan for its CPU! Well it has to be done! Before I embark on something new!

So I have done this and that and those things which does not involve access to the net! But I still have the virtual farms and fish tanks to harvest and clean!

Came home for dinner! Went straight up after dinner and have sat in front of the computer! Then one by one, the family trooped upstairs to their own station! I have been at it for the last two hours. So have the rest! There was no need for conversation or acknowledgements of any kind. We do not communicate of course. We are all in our own world. We don't share the fights, tears or sweats we use to have or face! For one the grandparents just could not understand what the grand children are doing and in absolute silence too!

Of course the good part is - the less said the less harm or conflict!

So what about this thing that all man are social animals; no man is an island etc etc. Guess there will be some new renovative ideals and theories soon! How do we interview our subjects? Through the net of course!

I am not sure if the way it is going is good! But I could definitely stay in the house without having to leave it or talk to any one!
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budget...

2009-10-23T18:34:00.006+08:00

Just heard the budget broadcasted live on the radio.
Okay, so we are spending less to reduce the deficit. But it will be some time before we see brighter light!

But the good news is - it is great if we are Students! They will be getting transport passess at RM1.00 and free broadband service if you are still in University! Hmmm... wonder whether it will include part-time students!

Yes, our insurance relief will now be a thousand dollars more. Suppose it will be a great deal for 80% of the working population! However, it is no big deal to others!

Oh well, we still have to tighten our belt for another year or so!

And then, I am supposed to write about a friend.
She is still looking for a job! It is not as if there was no offer! But there are reasons if not excuses! End of the day, it just goes to prove what I believe. We really don't need much to live on! Helps too, if one has another bread-winner in the household.
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quiet confidence

2009-10-19T17:24:00.003+08:00

Came to work today with a quietness!

Quietness due to no more modules to worry about? Not totally true since i have Greek2.

However, I like to believe that this quietness is due to a confidence in having learnt what I have learnt and the assignments handed in!

Surely Goodness and mercy will follow me as I confidently dwell in the House of the Lord!!!

Wonderful feeling indeed!

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sobering ceremony....

2009-10-17T15:50:00.006+08:00

Attended the graduation ceremony on the 16th Saturday, 2009! It is a sobering affair to me for a few reasons!
a. The pomp and tradition of the ceremony befits the occasion.It brings about the seriousness of the occasion, to me anyway! If I have ever thought that it is just another academic award - and I oft have; I have to equate that I have just about been in the presence if not witness the visual 'holiness of God'.
b. The attendance of so many Bishops of different denominations gives a visual representation and coherence of a 'one' church/body of Christ. Do wish such gatherings are more visible for us 'lay christians'(?).

Oh, I have to mention that I do not envy all these young graduands coming out to pastor! Yes, they have finished their first theological education! I praise the Lord for it. But the world out there is not nice! We really have to pray for our young ones! For the matter, it is the same for all other young secular graduands!

Now for the fun part! We had a great time at the graduation dinner! Yes, it was good to gather together without the burden of 'outstanding assignments! Yes, we gave a little expose of what we feel and have to go through as part-time students! Guess you could say we took the opportunity to 'poke fun' at our lecturers! On the other hand, we were told we made heroes of our two 'Ye olde Knights of NT and OT'! What ever it is, we have had learnt a lot of the Word of God, from them!

What next? I think it was appropriately and thoughtfully defined by a fellow classmate! He gave us a parting gift - a book - 'Quiet moments with God! Apt reminder - not just head knowledge but heart knowledge of HIM!
Praise the Lord indeed!
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sitting on stilts

2009-10-12T02:06:00.004+08:00

My twin head is sitting on stilts. Apparently the CPU's fan is kaput!
So I have to raise it, in order to allow sufficient air flowing underneath, to ensure it does not overheat and black out on me!

Looks like I really need a NEW pc too!

I am not allowed to purchase a Compact as it belongs to HP. One purchase will increase its market share! So it matters? Yes. One of my siblings is working for its competitor !!! But I am allowed to purchase any other Taiwanese brand cause it's market share is peanuts!

Much like I will not be pleased if my suppliers! use another brand of cosmetic in front of me! Neither would you get a government contract when the company is not a bumicompany!

Where does the line stops with marketing tactics verses racial considerations?

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new day

2009-10-11T01:30:00.001+08:00

Right it is new day in a new life.
It passed peacefully!
Went for a hair cut.
Marrinated chicken with yohurt and five spice,
for tomorrow's dinner with family!

So what's the big deal?
Had a strange dream!
Some one was very sad
as she/he was prohibited
from entering a bright and shiny house!

Oh well, I am no Freud
Will just leave it as a record!
Was told to watch on History Channel
- God v Satan
- Inside Islam

Need to go to church afterwards
promised some one a walking stick
Looking forward to another
new day!
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new beginning

2009-10-09T03:10:00.000+08:00

Today is the start of a new beginning
It is also the end of the old
I have made a choice
and will face the consequence

To learn is one thing
To put into practise is another
It can be considered foolhardy
as all changes bring the unknown

but it is the start of what I have learnt
walking in faith
is strange yet not so frightening
as long as we have faith

Can't say what it is
but things are unravelling
some by my God
some by people around me

there will be a lamp upon my feet
in that I will draw strength
neither will I be alone
for the walk before me
Amen
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Greeking it 2 ....

2009-10-06T18:46:00.001+08:00

Tonight we begin our first class of Greek 2.

Have to say I am looking forward to the grind again!
Strangely, it brings more joy than apprehension! Assume it is the pleasure of learning more of Him, as opposed to pure human adrenalin flowing from pressure?

Share a secret! There is a human and biological factor here! It is real! Just found out today that I was not the only 'strange' one! Found out that a few of us actually suffer from post-assignment syndrome!

Have read an article before, from Fortune magazine, that all the CEO's are just as good and excel in their 'hobby' such as golf, sailing, squash whilst running one of the top 100 Fortune 500 companies.

I am so proud to say that a few of my class mates really excel (better than me, of course) in their studies of God's word too! This is, in addition, to their busy schedule!!! We are talking about the Core Subjects on Old and New Testament!

Of course, we do not forget that it is our Lord who made it possible. We give praises and sacrifices of thanksgiving! Glory be to the Lord!

ps. tell you a joke - I have no where to attach my Greek 2 to!
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historic day

2009-10-05T21:28:00.002+08:00

Well, we were invited to the graduation "pending official notice from Academic Office"!

So today is a historic day, indeed! We were all told officially that "you can sleep well and look forward to the graduation day". Yes, it was a relief and the handphone has been busy! Then of course there is the exchange of grades and GPA!

I have been:-
a. 'told off' that we are not supposed to talk about grades if we are studying theology. End of the day, the reality is that an education with an institution needs an authentic certification. Also a grade invariably represents the degree of our understanding of the subject or God's word!

b. questioned with a bit of disdain as to why do we need to pursue a certificate! Sorry kid, I confess I am not very disciplined! An audit does not force me to search or dig further about my God. I suppose I could use the excuse I am medically deaf in one ear as far as sermons are concerned. Whatever it is, both are like 'ee-pin-foong' (in Cantonese) meaning 'wind blowing beside the ear'! it does not all go into my heart!

Incidentally (b) was said by a person of the frock! Hei, we are no threat, you know! At best, we are watch-dogs, and question you a bit more! Have you no confidence in yourself or your faith?
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housekeeping

2009-10-05T04:04:00.002+08:00

Went for a classmates' daughter's wedding! Good gathering to see friends again! Learning to get use to saying 'I am your mum's or mother-in-laws classmate'!

I have to take my hat off for all these females, who holds a job, runs the office and family and bring up at least two kids! Oh have to mention - catering and taking care of the 'husband'. All these without a maid! A couple of things come to mind!

First, here I am thinking it is a great deal to run a company, do my assignments, wondering what to do with the house work, washing and ironing, since the maid has not been turning up for two weeks now. Not to mention waiting for the plumber! The washer has broken down and have run up a huge water bill! Oh, forgot to mention I have to go see my aging parents, as well!

At least a decade ago, I read a thesis done by an American female. Met and read her thesis in a plane. There was no internet then, neither did I keep in contact; so can't quote her! Her conclusion is that the Asian females are far more superior (if not wile-ly) than their American counterparts! A rather amusing conclusion she draws is that 'the Asian females, although, in reality, runs the family (plus the office) has managed to 'make the husband feels like he is the man of the household and family'.

Since then I have to admit that I have had learnt from it. I do not have open confrontation with Asian Bosses! I have learnt to make them feel extremely important, giving them the full credit whilst getting the job done - my way!. I have also long accepted that it will take another generation or two, before females will be recognised as really equal - at home, in the corporate world, or in church(?)!

This is a total opposite from dealing with 'white-western' bosses! They like to have an open and frank disscussion. Most importantly, they will acknowledge they are wrong! No ego getting in the way! I thank my western female counterparts. They are pioneers for many females of future generations to come!

Oh! Last but not least, incidentally I was told that I should get a house-husband! Hmm... not a bad idea!
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fine line ....

2009-10-03T17:17:00.000+08:00

It does not matter what culture, religious or social group we belong to. One reality is - we very quickly learn to stay within the fine, unspoken and even invisible lines that is inherent in that culture, social or religious group. This way we get accepted and approved.

So since becoming a Christian, I have ceased to do many things. Some of them are definitely voluntary because of convictions. But there are many, of which I am not sure whether it stays within a biblically accepted behaviour or not!

Take this short video - 'dear penis'.
To me it is good clean fun! I know the title and subject sung about is 'sensitive' but it is just another body part! One could make another video about our 'dear big-toe or nose'.

I know that there will be some who will frown on it. Some will definitely and can even quote verses after verses in the Bible how one can stumble another and how it will devilify our mind.

Watch the video. Script is brilliant. Song and facial expressions are more than adept and wonderfully delivered.

So access this and tell me, if I am not allowed to 'enjoy' it!

Access video at:-
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/video/video.php?v=1088318441690
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9 chickens, 8 cows and a baby elephant

2009-10-01T01:09:00.005+08:00

Okay, it is just about two months where I am having a break!

So I have been manning my virtual farm. Yup I am at level 24. Yes, I do have nine chickens, 8 cows and a baby elephant. Yes, a friend actually gave me an elephant! What does one do with an elephant. You see we could harvest ie collect eggs from chicken, milk the cows and even collect wool from sheep. Actually had five sheep as well, but sold it! So coming back to the elephant, I do look forward as to how we could harvest an elephant. Collect his dung as firewood?

Then I also have my virtual aquarium, my farm at Farmtown, Barn buddy and my happy aquarium. All in all, it has kept me really busy! Except I don't the feeling of being 'bound' to the computer! I actually caught myself rushing back as it is time to harvest my crops! I can't even be bound by men, and will definitely not let an innate thing do that!

I could well understand, like I could harvest twice a day, when I am sitting at the computer all day. It does make sense! Especially if no one else can see your screen. I mean one could really look busy, or take a break when one needs to look at figures all the time! OR keep me company when I have insomnia!

But this will all end! Why? Greek 2 is starting next week! Never thought I will look forward to it! A couple of my classmates said that they have forgotten their vocabs. Well, I have faith that it would be rather easy to brush up now then say a year later!

Question now is - what do I do with my animals? I have not named them, so should have no regrets! Will some Animal Cops come after me, like what we see in US programmes, summoning owners and rescuing abused animals? What I have in common with the Animal Cops are - we have too much time and wealth on our hands! Give an animal be it dogs, cat, chicken or cows to some one in Africa, and it would probably be eaten!

I know dogs taste delicious. It is also known to help elevate chest and lung problems, due to the various herbs used to cook it. Maybe one day, I will need a pet for company. But for the moment, I love to tell the story of how tasty dogs are, especially served stewed!

Oh well, to each it's own!
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