Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Bad day - Daniel Powter
Was supposed to meet up wif some mates online to play some games. But when we did, one of us could not get his Internet Explorer to work!!!! Was so looking forward to that! :-( This weekend guys? KC, hopefully yr IE is working by then!
Then, so many people were on msn - windows popping up all over, trying to conduct many conversations on MSN while talking on Skype! It actually left me wif a headache!!! Methinks it was a combi of many things - the crazy weather, not being able to sleep etc. It has been a while since me had a headache (a miracle, no doubt!).
Wif so many people online - and connections getting on and off randomly, we din really get to chat much.
I called up an old fren in London and asked if he could meet up on Thurs or Friday but he wasn't free on either days.
I got an e-mail from a coursemate - i had been ahead of her a couple of weeks ago when i manage to get a supervisor and a tentative topic while she had neither. Well, she told me that she has now a rough draft out - and i realised i havent done anything for a long long while. :-(
I went to sleep - and woke up wif another headache!
And then, i din get to hear from someone today.
Sigh...
Ok, ok. Some of you will prolly be asking "You call that a bad day?????" Well, in comparison wif the past few days, it feels like that!! But the title of this post is not referring to the events of today - not really.
I was surfing randomly just now when i came across Daniel Powter's music video on Bad day. Truth be told, i din know who he was nor wat the song sounds like. But i listened to it.
When it started playing, i recognised it at once (i know loads of songs but not their titles)! tho i cant remember where i heard it from. More research online and the mystery was solved - it was used in American Idol as the signature song for booted out contestants! All together now, "Oohhhhhhhhh!".
The music video is excellent! You have to check it out if u are like me, not keeping up wif music videos. Watch it at YouTube here. Brilliant stuffs! I just love the whole concept. It brought a smile to me face... and left me misty eyed!
The pic is a video grab from the music video featuring Samaire Armstrong doing some neat graffiti (some trivia - do you know graffiti is the plural of graffito?) and it was taken from here.
Here are the lyrics - to those who are having a real bad day, unlike me!
Bad day
Where is the moment we needed the most
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
They tell me your blue skies fade to grey
They tell me your passion's gone away
And I don't need no carryin' on
You stand in the line just to hit a new low
You're faking a smile with the coffee you go
You tell me your life's been way off line
You're falling to pieces everytime
And I don't need no carryin' on
Cause you had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, the camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
You had a bad day
Well you need a blue sky holiday
The point is they laugh at what you say
And I don't need no carryin' on
You had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, the camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
(Oh.. Holiday..)
Sometimes the system goes on the blink
And the whole thing it turns out wrong
You might not make it back and you know
That you could be well oh that strong
And I'm not wrong
So where is the passion when you need it the most
Oh you and I
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
Cause you had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, you've seen what you like
And how does it feel for one more time
You had a bad day (2x)
Had a bad day
(Written and performed by Daniel Powter)
Then, so many people were on msn - windows popping up all over, trying to conduct many conversations on MSN while talking on Skype! It actually left me wif a headache!!! Methinks it was a combi of many things - the crazy weather, not being able to sleep etc. It has been a while since me had a headache (a miracle, no doubt!).
Wif so many people online - and connections getting on and off randomly, we din really get to chat much.
I called up an old fren in London and asked if he could meet up on Thurs or Friday but he wasn't free on either days.
I got an e-mail from a coursemate - i had been ahead of her a couple of weeks ago when i manage to get a supervisor and a tentative topic while she had neither. Well, she told me that she has now a rough draft out - and i realised i havent done anything for a long long while. :-(
I went to sleep - and woke up wif another headache!
And then, i din get to hear from someone today.
Sigh...
Ok, ok. Some of you will prolly be asking "You call that a bad day?????" Well, in comparison wif the past few days, it feels like that!! But the title of this post is not referring to the events of today - not really.
I was surfing randomly just now when i came across Daniel Powter's music video on Bad day. Truth be told, i din know who he was nor wat the song sounds like. But i listened to it.When it started playing, i recognised it at once (i know loads of songs but not their titles)! tho i cant remember where i heard it from. More research online and the mystery was solved - it was used in American Idol as the signature song for booted out contestants! All together now, "Oohhhhhhhhh!".
The music video is excellent! You have to check it out if u are like me, not keeping up wif music videos. Watch it at YouTube here. Brilliant stuffs! I just love the whole concept. It brought a smile to me face... and left me misty eyed!
The pic is a video grab from the music video featuring Samaire Armstrong doing some neat graffiti (some trivia - do you know graffiti is the plural of graffito?) and it was taken from here.
Here are the lyrics - to those who are having a real bad day, unlike me!
Bad day
Where is the moment we needed the most
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
They tell me your blue skies fade to grey
They tell me your passion's gone away
And I don't need no carryin' on
You stand in the line just to hit a new low
You're faking a smile with the coffee you go
You tell me your life's been way off line
You're falling to pieces everytime
And I don't need no carryin' on
Cause you had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, the camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
You had a bad day
Well you need a blue sky holiday
The point is they laugh at what you say
And I don't need no carryin' on
You had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, the camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
(Oh.. Holiday..)
Sometimes the system goes on the blink
And the whole thing it turns out wrong
You might not make it back and you know
That you could be well oh that strong
And I'm not wrong
So where is the passion when you need it the most
Oh you and I
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
Cause you had a bad day, you're taking one down
You sing a sad song, just to turn it around
You say you don't know, you tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day, you've seen what you like
And how does it feel for one more time
You had a bad day (2x)
Had a bad day
(Written and performed by Daniel Powter)
Mama - Spice Girls
I walked Chiaki to the bus-stop this morning - her bus was at 2:45am and i guess i was the only one who is not only normally awake at that time of the day but who is still pratty active!
She was so cute because she cold hardly contain her excitement - her mom was scheduled to arrive at Heathrow at 6 am and Chiaki no doubt was looking forward to the sweet reunion. I told her that i felt jealous of her.
It's been almost 8 months since i've seen me mom - webcam and photos doesn't count, ok? In any event, me mom doesnt like to appear on the webcam! Makes her look old. :-)
So is it any surprise that i miss me mom a lot?
Last week, when she she found out that i wasn't feeling well, she insisted that me sis go online and get me so that she could check on me. I mean it was only a normal flu lah. Still, which child doesn't like to be manja-ed once in a while? ;-P
I remember one time back home long ago, when i was really sick - bed-ridden kind - and for some reason i was sleeping in the downstairs room. In the middle of the nite, i felt better and could actually sit up - and i saw me mom sleeping on the floor in the corner of the room!!! She felt that her room upstairs was too far away from me in case i needed anything.
I really din wanna start this post cuz there are just so many things i wanna say about me mom! So many sweet memories. But i know that recounting all those moments will only bring me down more. Sigh... when will i see her again?
Speaking of which - and my father still laughs over this til today - when me mom saw me for the first time after i finished me undergraduate studies, she burst out into tears!!! i was a mere 54 kg back then and the sight me (as some of me mates say, like a drug-addict) must have conjured up horrible fears in her mind that i was starving meself here, that i must be living in great suffering - which of course could not be more further away from the truth!
I'm just glad that in many months of being a "leong-tay-koon" before i came here, i spent quite a lot of time wif me mom.
Chiaki is in London now showing her mom the sights! And i'm turning green! ;-)
A picture of security and contentment! (KC's 'old fren' from Bidor wif its mom)
She was so cute because she cold hardly contain her excitement - her mom was scheduled to arrive at Heathrow at 6 am and Chiaki no doubt was looking forward to the sweet reunion. I told her that i felt jealous of her.
It's been almost 8 months since i've seen me mom - webcam and photos doesn't count, ok? In any event, me mom doesnt like to appear on the webcam! Makes her look old. :-)
So is it any surprise that i miss me mom a lot?
Last week, when she she found out that i wasn't feeling well, she insisted that me sis go online and get me so that she could check on me. I mean it was only a normal flu lah. Still, which child doesn't like to be manja-ed once in a while? ;-P
I remember one time back home long ago, when i was really sick - bed-ridden kind - and for some reason i was sleeping in the downstairs room. In the middle of the nite, i felt better and could actually sit up - and i saw me mom sleeping on the floor in the corner of the room!!! She felt that her room upstairs was too far away from me in case i needed anything.
I really din wanna start this post cuz there are just so many things i wanna say about me mom! So many sweet memories. But i know that recounting all those moments will only bring me down more. Sigh... when will i see her again?
Speaking of which - and my father still laughs over this til today - when me mom saw me for the first time after i finished me undergraduate studies, she burst out into tears!!! i was a mere 54 kg back then and the sight me (as some of me mates say, like a drug-addict) must have conjured up horrible fears in her mind that i was starving meself here, that i must be living in great suffering - which of course could not be more further away from the truth!
I'm just glad that in many months of being a "leong-tay-koon" before i came here, i spent quite a lot of time wif me mom.
Chiaki is in London now showing her mom the sights! And i'm turning green! ;-)
A picture of security and contentment! (KC's 'old fren' from Bidor wif its mom)
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Ask me - Amy Grant
I was surprised (shocked, maybe?) when i was visiting a blog belonging to a mate of a mate - and i saw that this girl whom i do not know nor have met before used one of my photos on her blog!!!!!
Click on the pic to see the enlarged version (sori, me dun have a screen capture thingy)
The main window in the back is the blog. The smaller window is my Picture Manager showing my pic. No doubt it's mine!
It's actually one of me fav pics ever. It was taken at Kapit, a small river town in Sarawak along the mighty Rejang. You can view the pic here. Mind you, just view! ;-P
Well, i dun know if i should be angry or flattered! She used the pic to decorate the top of her blog. There was no acknowledgment of where she obtained the pic from!
Yeah, i know that some of u may be saying that i use pics from all over the web too. Yes, but i acknowledge all my sources and if the owner specifically prohitbits the usage of any pics, i'll respect that.
O well... it's no big deal. It's not like she was using it for profit! So i was nice enuf to cover the name of her blog in me pic above!
I guess i shud feel flattered... but if anyone wants to use any of me pics, ask me first, k?
UPDATE (31/5/06): I left a comment on her tag board - basically just stating that it was my pic and that i din know if i shud be angry or flattered. Well, today, the pic is gone and so is my comment on her tag board. What the...???? The pretend-nothing-ever-happenned trick. By taking it off shows that she agreed that it was not right for her to do that - but no clarification/apologies/nothing? Oh well... *shrugs*
Click on the pic to see the enlarged version (sori, me dun have a screen capture thingy)
The main window in the back is the blog. The smaller window is my Picture Manager showing my pic. No doubt it's mine!
It's actually one of me fav pics ever. It was taken at Kapit, a small river town in Sarawak along the mighty Rejang. You can view the pic here. Mind you, just view! ;-P
Well, i dun know if i should be angry or flattered! She used the pic to decorate the top of her blog. There was no acknowledgment of where she obtained the pic from!
Yeah, i know that some of u may be saying that i use pics from all over the web too. Yes, but i acknowledge all my sources and if the owner specifically prohitbits the usage of any pics, i'll respect that.
O well... it's no big deal. It's not like she was using it for profit! So i was nice enuf to cover the name of her blog in me pic above!
I guess i shud feel flattered... but if anyone wants to use any of me pics, ask me first, k?
UPDATE (31/5/06): I left a comment on her tag board - basically just stating that it was my pic and that i din know if i shud be angry or flattered. Well, today, the pic is gone and so is my comment on her tag board. What the...???? The pretend-nothing-ever-happenned trick. By taking it off shows that she agreed that it was not right for her to do that - but no clarification/apologies/nothing? Oh well... *shrugs*
Both sides of the story - Phil Collins
I'm glad i belong to one of the lawyers' mailing list back home (despite the fact i'm no longer a practising one! No, have not perfected it, just stopped!).
If not for the mailing list, i would have missed out on wat took place at KLCC last Sunday. After all, it wasn't highlighted in the Star. Sure, they reported it - but i had to search for it bfore finding it. And it was a really short report. It's so short that i'd reproduce the whole report here:-
Opposition party men protest power price hike
KUALA LUMPUR: Members of various opposition parties staged a protest against the 12% electricity tariff increase in front of KLCC Sunday. Parti Keadilan Rakyat information bureau chief Tian Chua led the protest which began at 10am. More than 600 people, including PAS and DAP members, took part in the protest. PAS youth chief Salahuddin Ayub and DAP NGO bureau chief Ronnie Liu were among the opposition leaders involved.
At about 11am when the protest grew rowdy, police used a water cannon on demonstrators who refused to disperse.
Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Kamal Pasha Jamal said police detained 18 men including Salahuddin and Liu as well as two women. “We have taken them to the Hang Tuah station lock-up for questioning. We will release them after that,” said ACP Kamal Pasha, adding that the crowd dispersed at 12pm.
(report taken from here - just in case u want to verify that it was that short!)
Here are excerpts of wat took place, given by Malaysiakini:-
Things took a turn for the worse when the third speaker at the demonstration, DAP representative Ronnie Liu, expressed his gratitude for the support given by voters to the opposition at the recent Sarawak state elections. Immediately, the police through loudhailers issued an order for the crowd to disperse. The crowd ignored the warning, and five minutes later, water cannons were fired. Despite being drenched profusely, most of the crowd defiantly held their ground, prompting plainclothes police officers to move in and make random arrests.
As the crowd moved out of the water cannons' range, the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) charged at them sending many protestors, including women and children, running for cover as shocked Sunday shoppers looked on.
In another altercation, one protestor was subdued by at least 10 FRU personnel. The protester held on to a police officer in a bid to shield himself from the blows, which included one from the butt end of a gas canister launcher.
Traces of blood stains were also found at the entrance of KLCC, where a scuffle between FRU personnel and an unidentified protestor had allegedly taken place. The protestor was believed to have been hospitalised for lacerations to the head.
Dang Wangi OCPD ACP Kamal Pasha (right) told reporters after the police wrapped up their operations at about 11.30am, that 18 individuals were arrested, including two women. Asked by malaysiakini if the use of force, especially the repeated kicking by his men, were justifiable, Kamal told reporters that his men had acted in self-defence.
Malaysiakini also quoted PAS deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa as follows:-
"It was a clear act of very uncivilised brutality because the gathering was peaceful and meant for the people. The people who came did not represent just political parties, so it wasn’t a political issue. Those who came were from NGOs, students... It was also a mix of all races.
There was no reason why the police should have acted as such. The assembly was a very peaceful one, they knew one after another speaker was going to speak, and we intended to stay there no more than two hours. But after they started to shoot the water at us, and the beating started, it was as if we were criminals.
I was there at the hospital to look at those who had been beaten, some were hit on the head and their lips were bleeding. Even after they started bleeding, they were handcuffed. One had to have stitches, and was discharged only today. They beat people like animals".
So there you go - both sides of the story. One very sanitise, the other, far from it. I have to say i'm inclined to believe the latter - after all, we Malaysians know our police force very well. We have been bullied and pushed around, treated wif contempt and threatened by them, when we have not done anything to warrant such treatment.
Biased? Maybe.
But perhaps these photos taken on that day may lend some support to the latter version:-
Pics taken from Malaysiakini - apologies to those who may be upset due to the sight of blood
If not for the mailing list, i would have missed out on wat took place at KLCC last Sunday. After all, it wasn't highlighted in the Star. Sure, they reported it - but i had to search for it bfore finding it. And it was a really short report. It's so short that i'd reproduce the whole report here:-
Opposition party men protest power price hike
KUALA LUMPUR: Members of various opposition parties staged a protest against the 12% electricity tariff increase in front of KLCC Sunday. Parti Keadilan Rakyat information bureau chief Tian Chua led the protest which began at 10am. More than 600 people, including PAS and DAP members, took part in the protest. PAS youth chief Salahuddin Ayub and DAP NGO bureau chief Ronnie Liu were among the opposition leaders involved.
At about 11am when the protest grew rowdy, police used a water cannon on demonstrators who refused to disperse.
Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Kamal Pasha Jamal said police detained 18 men including Salahuddin and Liu as well as two women. “We have taken them to the Hang Tuah station lock-up for questioning. We will release them after that,” said ACP Kamal Pasha, adding that the crowd dispersed at 12pm.
(report taken from here - just in case u want to verify that it was that short!)
Here are excerpts of wat took place, given by Malaysiakini:-
Things took a turn for the worse when the third speaker at the demonstration, DAP representative Ronnie Liu, expressed his gratitude for the support given by voters to the opposition at the recent Sarawak state elections. Immediately, the police through loudhailers issued an order for the crowd to disperse. The crowd ignored the warning, and five minutes later, water cannons were fired. Despite being drenched profusely, most of the crowd defiantly held their ground, prompting plainclothes police officers to move in and make random arrests.
As the crowd moved out of the water cannons' range, the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) charged at them sending many protestors, including women and children, running for cover as shocked Sunday shoppers looked on.
In another altercation, one protestor was subdued by at least 10 FRU personnel. The protester held on to a police officer in a bid to shield himself from the blows, which included one from the butt end of a gas canister launcher.
Traces of blood stains were also found at the entrance of KLCC, where a scuffle between FRU personnel and an unidentified protestor had allegedly taken place. The protestor was believed to have been hospitalised for lacerations to the head.
Dang Wangi OCPD ACP Kamal Pasha (right) told reporters after the police wrapped up their operations at about 11.30am, that 18 individuals were arrested, including two women. Asked by malaysiakini if the use of force, especially the repeated kicking by his men, were justifiable, Kamal told reporters that his men had acted in self-defence.
Malaysiakini also quoted PAS deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa as follows:-
"It was a clear act of very uncivilised brutality because the gathering was peaceful and meant for the people. The people who came did not represent just political parties, so it wasn’t a political issue. Those who came were from NGOs, students... It was also a mix of all races.
There was no reason why the police should have acted as such. The assembly was a very peaceful one, they knew one after another speaker was going to speak, and we intended to stay there no more than two hours. But after they started to shoot the water at us, and the beating started, it was as if we were criminals.
I was there at the hospital to look at those who had been beaten, some were hit on the head and their lips were bleeding. Even after they started bleeding, they were handcuffed. One had to have stitches, and was discharged only today. They beat people like animals".
So there you go - both sides of the story. One very sanitise, the other, far from it. I have to say i'm inclined to believe the latter - after all, we Malaysians know our police force very well. We have been bullied and pushed around, treated wif contempt and threatened by them, when we have not done anything to warrant such treatment.
Biased? Maybe.
But perhaps these photos taken on that day may lend some support to the latter version:-
Pics taken from Malaysiakini - apologies to those who may be upset due to the sight of blood
Addendum: I was also reading - with part amusement, part frustration - about the criticisms by the police against the setting up of an Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (Read about it here)! Part of the reasons include thier concerns (kononnya) that it may victimise the people!!!! Riiiiiiggggghhhhhttt!
Sigh... why am i not surprised? As me lecturers alway say, "Turkeys don't vote for Christmas".
Sigh... why am i not surprised? As me lecturers alway say, "Turkeys don't vote for Christmas".
Judy Judy Judy - Johnny Tillotson
"Hi, i'm here for the job interview. I'm supposed to see... err... Carol?"
She eyed me for a while and then said, "Judy?"
"Right"! *Smiles sheepishly* "Judy. Yes!"
She gave me the i-dun think-he-knows-wat-he-is-talking-about look. Then she told me to wait a moment while she called for Judy.
I kicked meself - how in the world could i have made such a mistake? Carol - Judy! More different than chalk is from cheese!!!!
I figured it must be cuz both are associated wif song titles of oldies - Judy, Judy, Judy by Johnny Tillotson and Oh Carol by Neil Sedeka!
No, i'm not that old - but me used to listen to these kinda songs when me just a wee kid!
Anyways, the interview was conducted wif Judy and someone else - i really dun know her name. 2 old ladies and one Malaysian. They were both so giggly, tho. Like teenagers (they better not be reading me blog!!!!!). And very nice! Honest! It appeared to have gone well - but so did me meeting wif the manager of Subway a couple of weeks ago!
We'll see how. Am not getting me hopes up. Carol said she'd let me know by Friday.
I meant Judy!
;-P
She eyed me for a while and then said, "Judy?"
"Right"! *Smiles sheepishly* "Judy. Yes!"
She gave me the i-dun think-he-knows-wat-he-is-talking-about look. Then she told me to wait a moment while she called for Judy.
I kicked meself - how in the world could i have made such a mistake? Carol - Judy! More different than chalk is from cheese!!!!
I figured it must be cuz both are associated wif song titles of oldies - Judy, Judy, Judy by Johnny Tillotson and Oh Carol by Neil Sedeka!
No, i'm not that old - but me used to listen to these kinda songs when me just a wee kid!
Anyways, the interview was conducted wif Judy and someone else - i really dun know her name. 2 old ladies and one Malaysian. They were both so giggly, tho. Like teenagers (they better not be reading me blog!!!!!). And very nice! Honest! It appeared to have gone well - but so did me meeting wif the manager of Subway a couple of weeks ago!
We'll see how. Am not getting me hopes up. Carol said she'd let me know by Friday.
I meant Judy!
;-P
Monday, May 29, 2006
Impulsive - Wilson Phillips
Yes, i'm on a roll! I've lost count of how posts i've... posted today!
Well, this is in some ways connected wif the previous one.
Thnking back, i've been quite a spontaneous person - or at least i would like to think so! ;-P I use to be the one who'd come out wif outrageous and crazy ideas on the spur of the moment - and used to be able to convince othrs to go along! I remember one time when a mate, referring to me, said "Who is the stupid fella who suggested doing this in the first place???" to which i replied "Who is stupider - the one who suggested it or the one who agreed to do it?"!
Yeah, can be pretty impulsive - some say reckless. I guess i am an 'action' kind of person back then. Can't stay still, must get into action, jump and then only look, reacts to situations. A cliff is there to be climbed, a question is asked to be answered, a chance which comes is to be taken!
How things have changed. Am i older and wiser? Perhaps! Things i've said have been misinterpreted, actions have been misunderstood, decisions have become nightmares, a brave leap have caused much pain. So now, i look before i leap; i think - and even come out wif a mental draft - before i say; i consider all things from all angles before any decision is taken.
Yeah, i've turned into a boring old fart! :-(
Well, then why is it that i've suddenly thrown caution to the wind and acted impulsively? I even made sure i din have enuf time to think over it (knowing how i will convince meself not to do it). What was i thinking of?????
Ok, to those who have no idea wat i'm talking about (which means ALL OF YOU!!!!), fear not. I've not done anything illegal nor morally wrong! Nor is it anything which will bring dishonour to God. And yes, i did pray about it.
It's just that it's pretty impulsive. Yet, i've no regrets! Well, none so far! :-)
I'm not recommending this (kids, dun try this at home... or anywhere else, for that matter!), but it feels great! I guess maybe this has served to reawaken a part of me that has been 'marginalised'?. Am i just feeling bored since me exams are over? Well, yes. But no. I mean, yes, i'm bored, but no, that's not why i did it!
I did it cuz i wanted to.
Me flatmates were asking why i've been in such a good mood lately! If only they knew. :-)
Must be careful so as not to fall... or is it too late?
Well, this is in some ways connected wif the previous one.
Thnking back, i've been quite a spontaneous person - or at least i would like to think so! ;-P I use to be the one who'd come out wif outrageous and crazy ideas on the spur of the moment - and used to be able to convince othrs to go along! I remember one time when a mate, referring to me, said "Who is the stupid fella who suggested doing this in the first place???" to which i replied "Who is stupider - the one who suggested it or the one who agreed to do it?"!
Yeah, can be pretty impulsive - some say reckless. I guess i am an 'action' kind of person back then. Can't stay still, must get into action, jump and then only look, reacts to situations. A cliff is there to be climbed, a question is asked to be answered, a chance which comes is to be taken!
How things have changed. Am i older and wiser? Perhaps! Things i've said have been misinterpreted, actions have been misunderstood, decisions have become nightmares, a brave leap have caused much pain. So now, i look before i leap; i think - and even come out wif a mental draft - before i say; i consider all things from all angles before any decision is taken.
Yeah, i've turned into a boring old fart! :-(
Well, then why is it that i've suddenly thrown caution to the wind and acted impulsively? I even made sure i din have enuf time to think over it (knowing how i will convince meself not to do it). What was i thinking of?????
Ok, to those who have no idea wat i'm talking about (which means ALL OF YOU!!!!), fear not. I've not done anything illegal nor morally wrong! Nor is it anything which will bring dishonour to God. And yes, i did pray about it.
It's just that it's pretty impulsive. Yet, i've no regrets! Well, none so far! :-)
I'm not recommending this (kids, dun try this at home... or anywhere else, for that matter!), but it feels great! I guess maybe this has served to reawaken a part of me that has been 'marginalised'?. Am i just feeling bored since me exams are over? Well, yes. But no. I mean, yes, i'm bored, but no, that's not why i did it!
I did it cuz i wanted to.
Me flatmates were asking why i've been in such a good mood lately! If only they knew. :-)
Must be careful so as not to fall... or is it too late?
Good for me - Amy Grant
"Jonnie! Just wait for a minute!"
"Aw, mom. They have already left..."
"They are not far away. Knowing u, u'll catch up wif them in no time".
Jonnie sulks. "Would you please hurry up?"
Mom laughs. Jonnie can look so cute when he sulks. "Patience, my dear, is a virtue. And you dun wan me to mess up your lunch, do you?"
"But the others din pack anything!", Jonnie whines. "They all just left with their dads and older brothers."
"Then they can all starve!"
Mom bite her lip immediately after she said that. That din come out right.
Jonnie fidgets quietly as Mom finishes packing the 5 loaves of barley bread and 2 small fishes.
"There you go, my dear."
Jonnie reaches out to grab the packed lunch when Mom instinctively pulls back - she knew the moment he gets his hands on it, he'll be gone in a flash.
"Just one more thing, Jonnie".
"Aw... wat now???"
"Jonnie, i want you to listen to me".
That tone that Mom used always works. Jonnie knew that Mom was gonna say something important and he'd listen carefully.
"This is your lunch. It's not much but if you have to, you'll..."
"Share it with others! Yes, mom. You always taught me that!"
Mom smiled. She hands him the food.
"I love you, darling".
Jonnie turns round even as he's running away.
"Love you too, mom!"
Mom smiles and returns back to her chores.
The speaker last nite spoke on the feeding of the 5 thousand. you can read the passage here. He was saying that when the little boy's mom prepared her son's lunch that day, she would not in her wildest imagination guessed that around 2000 years later, a preacher in the town of Colchester will be talking about the very same boy!
We dun really know much about the boy. We din even know whether it was him who volunteered his lunch to Andrew or was it Andrew who asked him for it. We dun know wat was going on in his mind. The cynical part in me also questions whether he kept some back for himself (perhaps mom packed 10 loaves and 8 fishes???).
But i would like to think that the above narrative is close to wat really took place that day! :-)
In any event, the lesson is clear - are we willing to give wat we have to the Lord? Are are we too ashamed? 5 loaves and 2 fishes? You gotta be kidding!!!! Do we think that wat we have to offer is not good enuf, insufficient, faulty?
It's times like these when we will have to come wif child-like faith. The speaker said that the "practical man" is a curse to the church today. I may not agree wif that sentence but i understand where he is coming from. Too often, we think too much and due to practical reasons, we refrain from doing certain things. But is that right?
If the boy was being practical, would the 5 thousand have starved? Well, that is a pointless question cuz Jesus knew (v6) that the boy would offer his lunch!
As i think of meself today, i realise that as i grow older, i'm getting more practical. I am hessitant on doing things - i think too much before anything, which may not be a good thing. i used to be able to go up and share openly back home when i was younger. i find it harder now - i'm more conscious of the things i'm saying, the tone of my voice, how people would react. After all, i've been trained to consider these things.
having said that, while these are important, i'm reminded yesterday that it must not hinder us from sharing! It's ironic that the things taught to us to aid us end up hindering us!
I guess wat is ultimately most important is that we must look unto Jesus, fix our eyes on him. Focus not on our weaknesses and failings alone but to keep in mind his power and his love. What may not be good in our eyes can be good in the power of his love!
5 loaves and 2 fishes. The poor widow's 2 copper coins. Worthless in the world's eyes - but have been used by God in wonderful ways and is still being used today to teach, guide and encourage us.
"Aw, mom. They have already left..."
"They are not far away. Knowing u, u'll catch up wif them in no time".
Jonnie sulks. "Would you please hurry up?"
Mom laughs. Jonnie can look so cute when he sulks. "Patience, my dear, is a virtue. And you dun wan me to mess up your lunch, do you?"
"But the others din pack anything!", Jonnie whines. "They all just left with their dads and older brothers."
"Then they can all starve!"
Mom bite her lip immediately after she said that. That din come out right.
Jonnie fidgets quietly as Mom finishes packing the 5 loaves of barley bread and 2 small fishes.
"There you go, my dear."
Jonnie reaches out to grab the packed lunch when Mom instinctively pulls back - she knew the moment he gets his hands on it, he'll be gone in a flash.
"Just one more thing, Jonnie".
"Aw... wat now???"
"Jonnie, i want you to listen to me".
That tone that Mom used always works. Jonnie knew that Mom was gonna say something important and he'd listen carefully.
"This is your lunch. It's not much but if you have to, you'll..."
"Share it with others! Yes, mom. You always taught me that!"
Mom smiled. She hands him the food.
"I love you, darling".
Jonnie turns round even as he's running away.
"Love you too, mom!"
Mom smiles and returns back to her chores.
The speaker last nite spoke on the feeding of the 5 thousand. you can read the passage here. He was saying that when the little boy's mom prepared her son's lunch that day, she would not in her wildest imagination guessed that around 2000 years later, a preacher in the town of Colchester will be talking about the very same boy!We dun really know much about the boy. We din even know whether it was him who volunteered his lunch to Andrew or was it Andrew who asked him for it. We dun know wat was going on in his mind. The cynical part in me also questions whether he kept some back for himself (perhaps mom packed 10 loaves and 8 fishes???).
But i would like to think that the above narrative is close to wat really took place that day! :-)
In any event, the lesson is clear - are we willing to give wat we have to the Lord? Are are we too ashamed? 5 loaves and 2 fishes? You gotta be kidding!!!! Do we think that wat we have to offer is not good enuf, insufficient, faulty?
It's times like these when we will have to come wif child-like faith. The speaker said that the "practical man" is a curse to the church today. I may not agree wif that sentence but i understand where he is coming from. Too often, we think too much and due to practical reasons, we refrain from doing certain things. But is that right?
If the boy was being practical, would the 5 thousand have starved? Well, that is a pointless question cuz Jesus knew (v6) that the boy would offer his lunch!
As i think of meself today, i realise that as i grow older, i'm getting more practical. I am hessitant on doing things - i think too much before anything, which may not be a good thing. i used to be able to go up and share openly back home when i was younger. i find it harder now - i'm more conscious of the things i'm saying, the tone of my voice, how people would react. After all, i've been trained to consider these things.
having said that, while these are important, i'm reminded yesterday that it must not hinder us from sharing! It's ironic that the things taught to us to aid us end up hindering us!
I guess wat is ultimately most important is that we must look unto Jesus, fix our eyes on him. Focus not on our weaknesses and failings alone but to keep in mind his power and his love. What may not be good in our eyes can be good in the power of his love!
5 loaves and 2 fishes. The poor widow's 2 copper coins. Worthless in the world's eyes - but have been used by God in wonderful ways and is still being used today to teach, guide and encourage us.
Expect great things from God; Attempt great things for God
Attributed to William Carey
Attributed to William Carey
Pic taken from here. Cute-eh?
Penny Lover - Lionel Ritchie
I have been accused in the past of being "penny wise, pound foolish"!
We were in court waiting (like every other time!!!! as one lawyer said, he's more of a waiter than a lawyer) and we were talking about parking our cars outside, how we would hunt for a parking space wif a parking metre where there is still credit in them!!!! All the trouble just to save a few sens.
I dun deny it! I'm guilty as charged! I'd spent a long time at Tesco checking out the prices of different brands (sumtimes i wonder why i bother cuz the Tesco Value stuffs will be far cheaper than the rest!) and sometimes i even go to town to check the prices at Iceland or Wilkinsons or Sainsbury!!! All so that i'd save perhaps 10 pence or 15!
But at the same time, i had spent a fortune on other things like me guitar and me boots! Sigh...
Back home, there was a point of time when i used to pack food to office to save money. And then i'd go and spent like crazy at me action figure store!!!!
Anyways, the weather is lovely today - sun shining brightly and all. It's Spring Bank Holiday - and i'm here in me room. Was planning to go to London today. I had plans to go to London last Wednesday, Saturday and also today! In the end, i decided against going at all! Yup, since me exams ended, i haven't been to London yet! Surprise, surprise (which explains why my Loitering in London photoblog has not been updated for a while!).
I'm going to London on Friday to meet up wif a mate - and i'll be going quite often cuz i need to use LSE's law library for research. So i thought that if i could cut down "frivolous" trips, it would save me a lot of money.
So there - at least 20 quid saved today! So proud of meself! ;-)
Instead, i'll spend the whole day indoors blogging! So get your coffee, settle in a comfy chair and wipe your glasses!
Oh trust me, the money i saved - i'll soon splurge it on watching a musical, or buying a jersey (Liverpool has THREE new jerseys coming out this year - home, away, and Europe. And it's sponsored by Adidas - no more Reebok), or something like that.
p/s - i still haven't bought Jewel's new album yet! I've heard some songs and it's brilliant! but 15 quid for a music CD???? That's steep, man...
We were in court waiting (like every other time!!!! as one lawyer said, he's more of a waiter than a lawyer) and we were talking about parking our cars outside, how we would hunt for a parking space wif a parking metre where there is still credit in them!!!! All the trouble just to save a few sens.I dun deny it! I'm guilty as charged! I'd spent a long time at Tesco checking out the prices of different brands (sumtimes i wonder why i bother cuz the Tesco Value stuffs will be far cheaper than the rest!) and sometimes i even go to town to check the prices at Iceland or Wilkinsons or Sainsbury!!! All so that i'd save perhaps 10 pence or 15!
But at the same time, i had spent a fortune on other things like me guitar and me boots! Sigh...
Back home, there was a point of time when i used to pack food to office to save money. And then i'd go and spent like crazy at me action figure store!!!!
Anyways, the weather is lovely today - sun shining brightly and all. It's Spring Bank Holiday - and i'm here in me room. Was planning to go to London today. I had plans to go to London last Wednesday, Saturday and also today! In the end, i decided against going at all! Yup, since me exams ended, i haven't been to London yet! Surprise, surprise (which explains why my Loitering in London photoblog has not been updated for a while!).
I'm going to London on Friday to meet up wif a mate - and i'll be going quite often cuz i need to use LSE's law library for research. So i thought that if i could cut down "frivolous" trips, it would save me a lot of money.
So there - at least 20 quid saved today! So proud of meself! ;-)
Instead, i'll spend the whole day indoors blogging! So get your coffee, settle in a comfy chair and wipe your glasses!
Oh trust me, the money i saved - i'll soon splurge it on watching a musical, or buying a jersey (Liverpool has THREE new jerseys coming out this year - home, away, and Europe. And it's sponsored by Adidas - no more Reebok), or something like that.
p/s - i still haven't bought Jewel's new album yet! I've heard some songs and it's brilliant! but 15 quid for a music CD???? That's steep, man...
You make me sick - Pink
Yeah, i'm getting the blame now. First it was Michael. Then Sachin. Now Ghisseh!
But, but i got it from Isabella!!!!
Sigh... that's wat happens when one falls ill. It'll spread all around! Well, as me old mate the Kitster use to say, sharing is caring!
It is nice that everyone can still have a good laugh over it - altho Ghisseh has no voice to laugh out loud!!!! :-)
But, but i got it from Isabella!!!!
Sigh... that's wat happens when one falls ill. It'll spread all around! Well, as me old mate the Kitster use to say, sharing is caring!
It is nice that everyone can still have a good laugh over it - altho Ghisseh has no voice to laugh out loud!!!! :-)
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Take my breath away - Berlin
I was just going to sleep when i saw this glorious sunrise!!!!
Those who may not know me well must be saying "you meant sunset, rite"??? Well, no. Sunrise!
I was getting ready to go to bed at around 4 sumthing in the morning when i decided to fill up me water bottle. I headed to the kitchen - and i just went "Wow"!!!! Needless to say, water bottle was put downa nd camera was fetched. That wasn't enuf - i dressed up and went out into the cold dawn to take more pics. It was awesome!
Check out the pics here.
It has been a really brilliant day! I chatted wif me mom, dad and sis. I oso chatted wif another fren - and a stranger(!). A mate from M'sia called me on me mobile too! Later when i went for evening service, i got to know some of th young adults there - usually, it's the old foggies whom i talk to! Happy day! :-)
Those who may not know me well must be saying "you meant sunset, rite"??? Well, no. Sunrise!
I was getting ready to go to bed at around 4 sumthing in the morning when i decided to fill up me water bottle. I headed to the kitchen - and i just went "Wow"!!!! Needless to say, water bottle was put downa nd camera was fetched. That wasn't enuf - i dressed up and went out into the cold dawn to take more pics. It was awesome!
Check out the pics here.
It has been a really brilliant day! I chatted wif me mom, dad and sis. I oso chatted wif another fren - and a stranger(!). A mate from M'sia called me on me mobile too! Later when i went for evening service, i got to know some of th young adults there - usually, it's the old foggies whom i talk to! Happy day! :-)
Longer - Dan Fogelberg
So how? Shall i get a haircut or shall i wait til it grows longer? Me last haircut was back home in September last year!
p/s - yes, Jess, i'm gonna shave later before i go for service
p/p/s - yes, weng soon, i did the soft focus thingy for the pic again! it's my blog and its my pic and ill do wateva i want! ;-P
p/s - yes, Jess, i'm gonna shave later before i go for service
p/p/s - yes, weng soon, i did the soft focus thingy for the pic again! it's my blog and its my pic and ill do wateva i want! ;-P
Here I am - Air Supply
I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?"
Then I said, "Here am I! Send me."
Isaiah 6v8
I was reading a sister's blog on her experiences on mission late last year. She was away for half a year and blogged about her experiences - and i actually sat and read thru all her posts on those 6 months! It was so encouraging, to see how God worked thru her and her team.
I've always wondered if i'm called for missions. Til now, i still dun know. Well, i'm still young! ;-P
I have had interest in missions for a very long time. I guess it is in some way ironic that i've never had a chance. Maybe God is trying to tell me sumthing?
I'm referring to missions overseas. When we (in my home assembly) had our first overseas short term missions trip, they wanted Mandarin speaking people. Then, the next one was to Indonesia. I was the only one who signed up for it - and when the time came, unrest broke out in Indonesia. It was due to that and the lack of volunteers that the trip was called off. The next time they went to Indonesia, they only approached the engineers and doctors as the main purpose of the trip was to give free clinics and do some engineering works. Finally, last year, i signed up wif CREST to go to Acheh. However, after telling me to prepare meself and all, they just ignored me!!!! Yeah, no contact, nothing. I was pretty disappointed cuz i gave up a lot just to avail meself.
So is that all a sign?
I did go with a team to Bangkok - but that was more of a fact-finding mission. It was great fun, tho!
Well, i can be pretty stubborn and until God closes all doors tightly, i'll always keep the option opened. i believe that not all are called for mission work overseas - but i think that it would be a waste if i dun avail meself to it since i love travelling and experiencing other cultures - altho me language learning is not so good! Part of the reason i'm doing this course now is with a view of having it easier to enter any country.
But i could be wrong - and wat i want may not be wat he wants for me.
On the other hand, as a missionary once told me, we are missionaries wherever we are. When i was serving God in Barking more than 10 years ago, i was in a way, a missionary.
And mission work need not be "overseas". I've have had the privillege of heading many teams for short-term missions in various parts of M'sia. And i thoroughly loved the experience.
I remember the first time (who won't?). Leading my first team ever, not having an assistant. But God worked miracles. It was truly an awesome experience - and a most humbling one. We learn that we can only depend fully on him and him alone. We learn how inadequate we are. We also learn how great his power and his love is. Things will never work out the way we plan - but it will always work for the good of those who love him!
I always remember when we planned for a picnic during our short-term missions at Kota Bharu. When we met up that morning, we were surprised at the overwhelming turn-out! Good - but we only chartered a mini bus! The bus would not be big enough. We scrambled to make last minute plans and started trying to call for extra drivers/cars - and then suddenly, a HUGE bus pulls up. The bus driver came out apologetically. he said the mini bus was being used and this "unfortunately" was the only bus he could get!!!!!!! :-)
The people we meet are so encouraging too. I've never failed to be touched by the hospitality shown by the Christians - and the genuine interest of those whom we come in contact wif. Of course there were those who were rude and mocked us - but it's never enuf to get us down for God gives us reasons always to be thankful.
I'd also have a briliant time wif me mission team members still remains even today. Living together and serving God hand in hand for a few days is a wonderful bonding experience. And even tho most of the time, i would be taking kids, they never fail to teach me something new. And we'd never fail to do something crazy - part of the perks! ;-) Mission trips are not meant to be devoid of fun!
Some of me mission team members on trips to Bidor, Kota Bharu, Batu Gajah & Temerloh
This weekend, me mates and fellow workers back home are away in the jungles of Pahang, reaching out to the Christians there. They would have had to deal wif mozzies and bugs, perhaps a scorpion or a snake, they'd sleep on hard floor and sweat in the humid night (and shiver in the cold morning), they'd bath in cold freezing river water - things that i used to do wif them. I envy them! Cuz they'll be experiencing the wonderful fellowship and see God working thru them.
At least i can still participate by praying for them. And when i get back, i'll be with them again, one hand, one heart.
Then I said, "Here am I! Send me."
Isaiah 6v8
I was reading a sister's blog on her experiences on mission late last year. She was away for half a year and blogged about her experiences - and i actually sat and read thru all her posts on those 6 months! It was so encouraging, to see how God worked thru her and her team.
I've always wondered if i'm called for missions. Til now, i still dun know. Well, i'm still young! ;-P
I have had interest in missions for a very long time. I guess it is in some way ironic that i've never had a chance. Maybe God is trying to tell me sumthing?
I'm referring to missions overseas. When we (in my home assembly) had our first overseas short term missions trip, they wanted Mandarin speaking people. Then, the next one was to Indonesia. I was the only one who signed up for it - and when the time came, unrest broke out in Indonesia. It was due to that and the lack of volunteers that the trip was called off. The next time they went to Indonesia, they only approached the engineers and doctors as the main purpose of the trip was to give free clinics and do some engineering works. Finally, last year, i signed up wif CREST to go to Acheh. However, after telling me to prepare meself and all, they just ignored me!!!! Yeah, no contact, nothing. I was pretty disappointed cuz i gave up a lot just to avail meself.
So is that all a sign?
I did go with a team to Bangkok - but that was more of a fact-finding mission. It was great fun, tho!
Well, i can be pretty stubborn and until God closes all doors tightly, i'll always keep the option opened. i believe that not all are called for mission work overseas - but i think that it would be a waste if i dun avail meself to it since i love travelling and experiencing other cultures - altho me language learning is not so good! Part of the reason i'm doing this course now is with a view of having it easier to enter any country.
But i could be wrong - and wat i want may not be wat he wants for me.
On the other hand, as a missionary once told me, we are missionaries wherever we are. When i was serving God in Barking more than 10 years ago, i was in a way, a missionary.
And mission work need not be "overseas". I've have had the privillege of heading many teams for short-term missions in various parts of M'sia. And i thoroughly loved the experience.
I remember the first time (who won't?). Leading my first team ever, not having an assistant. But God worked miracles. It was truly an awesome experience - and a most humbling one. We learn that we can only depend fully on him and him alone. We learn how inadequate we are. We also learn how great his power and his love is. Things will never work out the way we plan - but it will always work for the good of those who love him!
I always remember when we planned for a picnic during our short-term missions at Kota Bharu. When we met up that morning, we were surprised at the overwhelming turn-out! Good - but we only chartered a mini bus! The bus would not be big enough. We scrambled to make last minute plans and started trying to call for extra drivers/cars - and then suddenly, a HUGE bus pulls up. The bus driver came out apologetically. he said the mini bus was being used and this "unfortunately" was the only bus he could get!!!!!!! :-)
The people we meet are so encouraging too. I've never failed to be touched by the hospitality shown by the Christians - and the genuine interest of those whom we come in contact wif. Of course there were those who were rude and mocked us - but it's never enuf to get us down for God gives us reasons always to be thankful.
I'd also have a briliant time wif me mission team members still remains even today. Living together and serving God hand in hand for a few days is a wonderful bonding experience. And even tho most of the time, i would be taking kids, they never fail to teach me something new. And we'd never fail to do something crazy - part of the perks! ;-) Mission trips are not meant to be devoid of fun!
Some of me mission team members on trips to Bidor, Kota Bharu, Batu Gajah & Temerloh
This weekend, me mates and fellow workers back home are away in the jungles of Pahang, reaching out to the Christians there. They would have had to deal wif mozzies and bugs, perhaps a scorpion or a snake, they'd sleep on hard floor and sweat in the humid night (and shiver in the cold morning), they'd bath in cold freezing river water - things that i used to do wif them. I envy them! Cuz they'll be experiencing the wonderful fellowship and see God working thru them.
At least i can still participate by praying for them. And when i get back, i'll be with them again, one hand, one heart.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Emotion - Destiny's Child
It is a morning of mixed feelings. In the middle of the nite, i received a text message which was... good, to say the least! And it left me wif a smile on me face which i found hard to wipe out.
I'll prolly tell y'all about it - but not now, not yet.
When i jumped out of bed this morning - wif the smile still on me face - i did wat i do every morning since i've been here. I turned on me laptop to check mail and news. Almost immediately, the smile was wiped off. I saw the headlines on BBC News Online.
Then when outlook express received me mails, the smile came back - the person who texted me also mailed me! :-) Yes, let's keep it mysterious for now!
Back to the news, tho. It seems like there's nothing but bad news each day. Or maybe bad news sells? Just wanna point out 2 reports which really sanked me heart this morning.
The first of course is Hundreds die in Indonesian Quake. When i read that, what came to mind immediately was "Oh no, not again!!!!!".
And the headline was inaccurate. Reports at this point of time estimated loss of lives to be in the thousands. :-( The quake hit a densely populated area.
My fears of it affectting me mates and families back home and in S'pore were put to rest when i realised the quake hit the southern part of Java island.
Say a prayer for them. I remember seeing scenes from Aceh on CNN 2 Christmases ago and reading accounts from aid workers. It was trully horrible.
May God have mercy on them and comfort them*.
The next disheartening piece of news is Burma extends Suu Kyi's detention. After spending 10 out of the last 16 years in detention, many hoped that she will finally be able to taste freedom again when her detention period expires today. No such thing. Her detention has been extended - indefinately! (For those who want to know more about her, read the links in the news report).
This further strenghtened my determination to give me best for me dissertation - i'll be doing an essay on Arbitrary Administrative Detention - when the government without good reason deprives individuals of personal liberty.
Sigh... i almost feel guilty for feeling so happy earlier - still do actually, when i think of the text and the mail. I feel like a schizophrenic!
* I can't help but comment further on how certain people tend to judge in situations like these. When the hurricanes hit the States, certain religious groups said that it was the price to pay for waging war against Iraq. When the tsunami hit the predominantly Muslim nation of Indonesia 2 Christmases ago, certain other religious groups allege it was God's punishment on them.
Well, let's get one thing straight - the wages of sin is death. And all of us - guilty of sin - will die soner or later. Just because something bad happens to another, that does not necessarily mean that they are worse sinners than others. As Jesus himself said, "Do you suppose that these Galileans (who were tortured and murdered by Pilate) were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish" (Luke 13v2-3).
Remember, God loved the world (John 3v16), not just Christians - and Jesus died so that anyone who believes - no matter male or female, young or old, of watever nationality - will have eternal life.
I'll prolly tell y'all about it - but not now, not yet.
When i jumped out of bed this morning - wif the smile still on me face - i did wat i do every morning since i've been here. I turned on me laptop to check mail and news. Almost immediately, the smile was wiped off. I saw the headlines on BBC News Online.
Then when outlook express received me mails, the smile came back - the person who texted me also mailed me! :-) Yes, let's keep it mysterious for now!
Back to the news, tho. It seems like there's nothing but bad news each day. Or maybe bad news sells? Just wanna point out 2 reports which really sanked me heart this morning.
The first of course is Hundreds die in Indonesian Quake. When i read that, what came to mind immediately was "Oh no, not again!!!!!".And the headline was inaccurate. Reports at this point of time estimated loss of lives to be in the thousands. :-( The quake hit a densely populated area.
My fears of it affectting me mates and families back home and in S'pore were put to rest when i realised the quake hit the southern part of Java island.
Say a prayer for them. I remember seeing scenes from Aceh on CNN 2 Christmases ago and reading accounts from aid workers. It was trully horrible.
May God have mercy on them and comfort them*.
The next disheartening piece of news is Burma extends Suu Kyi's detention. After spending 10 out of the last 16 years in detention, many hoped that she will finally be able to taste freedom again when her detention period expires today. No such thing. Her detention has been extended - indefinately! (For those who want to know more about her, read the links in the news report).This further strenghtened my determination to give me best for me dissertation - i'll be doing an essay on Arbitrary Administrative Detention - when the government without good reason deprives individuals of personal liberty.
Sigh... i almost feel guilty for feeling so happy earlier - still do actually, when i think of the text and the mail. I feel like a schizophrenic!
* I can't help but comment further on how certain people tend to judge in situations like these. When the hurricanes hit the States, certain religious groups said that it was the price to pay for waging war against Iraq. When the tsunami hit the predominantly Muslim nation of Indonesia 2 Christmases ago, certain other religious groups allege it was God's punishment on them.
Well, let's get one thing straight - the wages of sin is death. And all of us - guilty of sin - will die soner or later. Just because something bad happens to another, that does not necessarily mean that they are worse sinners than others. As Jesus himself said, "Do you suppose that these Galileans (who were tortured and murdered by Pilate) were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish" (Luke 13v2-3).
Remember, God loved the world (John 3v16), not just Christians - and Jesus died so that anyone who believes - no matter male or female, young or old, of watever nationality - will have eternal life.
All pics taken from BBC News Online
Relax - Frankie Goes To Hollywood
Been vegetating much these past couple of days. Not very productive, i must confess - save for the trip down town, and to Tesco, as well as working on Monday, and going to the library to do some reading for me dissertation, and preparing for me meeting with my supervisor, and filling up and submitting an application for summer job on campus (got an interview - Praise God!).
Hhmmm.... actually, that dun seem too bad after all! ;-P
Of course i caught up on me TV and movie watching! It's the end of the seasons - for 24 (season 5), Desperate Housewives (season 2), Alias (final season) and Lost (season 2). Maybe it's just me but all these season finales din really rock me world - unlike the season finale for the first seasons of Lost, DH, Buffy and 24!!!
But i caught a really good movie the other day. It has been sumthing that i had been meaning to watch but at the same time could not bring meself to do it! Yeah, i'm a man of contradiction!
The movie is "A world without thieves". The reviews have been good. And it stars Rene Liu! However, it oso stars Andy Lau!!!!!!!
I used to be a fan until lately. Can't really stand him anymore. I mean, he was really bad in "The House of Flying Daggers". Still, that show was a let-down generally.
Anyways, being deprived of good chinese movies, it made it easier for me to sit down and watch it.
It was brilliant! :-)
Really good. Rene was good. The direction was excellent! The story - very idealistic but good. Coupled with the period setting, good supporting cast, effective music and soundtrack, this was a winner wif me!
No spoilers here - basically, it's about 2 thieves, Rene and Andy who are up against a gang of expert thieves on a train. But wat really "made it" for me was the character of country bumpkin, "Dumbo". He really looked the part. But the wonderful thing about him was his "pure"ness, his honesty and naivity. To him, he lives in a world without thieves. His companions during the seasonal holidays are wild wolves - and his reasoning is that if wild wolves can be his frens, surely there are no evil people in the world for humans should be better than animals!
The contrast between Andy/Rene's characters with his was wonderfully developed - and despite being so diffferent, the thieves end up protecting the kid. Why? Watch it. Lovely!
Other than that, been surfing a lot. There's this guy's blog on optical illusions which i would recommend. Go here. I got these following cool pics from there:-
And if you wanna read sumthing brilliant, go here and read about this sister's complaint of the lack of single goldly men around! It is simply hilarious, refreshingly honest and so so true. Top marks from me! (Thanks Jon for the link. best thing i've read in so long! But the pic of your tongue.... nvm).
Hhmmm.... actually, that dun seem too bad after all! ;-P
Of course i caught up on me TV and movie watching! It's the end of the seasons - for 24 (season 5), Desperate Housewives (season 2), Alias (final season) and Lost (season 2). Maybe it's just me but all these season finales din really rock me world - unlike the season finale for the first seasons of Lost, DH, Buffy and 24!!!
But i caught a really good movie the other day. It has been sumthing that i had been meaning to watch but at the same time could not bring meself to do it! Yeah, i'm a man of contradiction!
The movie is "A world without thieves". The reviews have been good. And it stars Rene Liu! However, it oso stars Andy Lau!!!!!!!I used to be a fan until lately. Can't really stand him anymore. I mean, he was really bad in "The House of Flying Daggers". Still, that show was a let-down generally.
Anyways, being deprived of good chinese movies, it made it easier for me to sit down and watch it.
It was brilliant! :-)
Really good. Rene was good. The direction was excellent! The story - very idealistic but good. Coupled with the period setting, good supporting cast, effective music and soundtrack, this was a winner wif me!
No spoilers here - basically, it's about 2 thieves, Rene and Andy who are up against a gang of expert thieves on a train. But wat really "made it" for me was the character of country bumpkin, "Dumbo". He really looked the part. But the wonderful thing about him was his "pure"ness, his honesty and naivity. To him, he lives in a world without thieves. His companions during the seasonal holidays are wild wolves - and his reasoning is that if wild wolves can be his frens, surely there are no evil people in the world for humans should be better than animals!
The contrast between Andy/Rene's characters with his was wonderfully developed - and despite being so diffferent, the thieves end up protecting the kid. Why? Watch it. Lovely!
Other than that, been surfing a lot. There's this guy's blog on optical illusions which i would recommend. Go here. I got these following cool pics from there:-
And if you wanna read sumthing brilliant, go here and read about this sister's complaint of the lack of single goldly men around! It is simply hilarious, refreshingly honest and so so true. Top marks from me! (Thanks Jon for the link. best thing i've read in so long! But the pic of your tongue.... nvm).
Friday, May 26, 2006
Don't worry, be happy - Bobby McFerrin
Last week, i was overcome wif a familiar feeling. Butterflies in me tummy!
Believe it or not, after so many years of practising as a litigation lawyer, i used to still get that before any major trial or hearing.
And yes, each time i go up on stage or take the pulpit, the same feeling overcomes me.
I'd feel the little fellas fluttering inside me and sometimes i even go gagging, like trying to vomit them out. It doesn't work, of course but it does help calm me nerves!
I had the same feeling last week on the morning or me exam. I guess i was pretty worried - after all, i did not cover as many topics as i would hae liked to. I've never been in a single law exam where i cannot answer the required number of questions. I din want my last one to be my first time to experience that.
But the really weird thing about me is that despite the worry and the anxiety i get before facing a trial, or a speaking engagement, or an exam, once i get started, it all leaves me immediately - and it is replaced instantly with a feeling of euphoria! Yes, conducting a trial is exhilarating and intellectually stimulating. Standing the behind the pulpit and having people listen to me - even listening to meself - is actually quite fun! Doing the exams is like playing a fun and challenging game. and when the trial is over, the time is passed back to the chairman, the exam scripts been colleted by the evigilators, there is this great sense of accomplishment - and a tinge of regret that it is over!
One of the reasons why i wanted to leave practice was because i couldn't take the pre-trial feeling any longer. Yet, the reason i stayed on is cuz conducting the trial gives me such a rush! Strange-eh?
Well, back to last week, as i walked to the Sports Hall where me exam is gonna take place, i reminded meself of the same verse that came to me mind the nite before my Human Rights exam during my undergraduate days - Phil 4v6-7. Never undermine the vaue of scripture memorising!
And as during me undergraduate days, as during me CLP days, as in those moments before a major hearing, and every other time i felt weakened with worry, i experience the peace of God. I just cannot explain it. It's not like wat i was worrying about is not there anymore. I still is. But yet, the burden is lifted - inexplicably.
Truly, it is a peace that passes all understanding.
p/s - pic taken by Weng Soon during an OA outreach trip in 2004 using me Nikon Coolpix 2100
Believe it or not, after so many years of practising as a litigation lawyer, i used to still get that before any major trial or hearing.And yes, each time i go up on stage or take the pulpit, the same feeling overcomes me.
I'd feel the little fellas fluttering inside me and sometimes i even go gagging, like trying to vomit them out. It doesn't work, of course but it does help calm me nerves!
I had the same feeling last week on the morning or me exam. I guess i was pretty worried - after all, i did not cover as many topics as i would hae liked to. I've never been in a single law exam where i cannot answer the required number of questions. I din want my last one to be my first time to experience that.
But the really weird thing about me is that despite the worry and the anxiety i get before facing a trial, or a speaking engagement, or an exam, once i get started, it all leaves me immediately - and it is replaced instantly with a feeling of euphoria! Yes, conducting a trial is exhilarating and intellectually stimulating. Standing the behind the pulpit and having people listen to me - even listening to meself - is actually quite fun! Doing the exams is like playing a fun and challenging game. and when the trial is over, the time is passed back to the chairman, the exam scripts been colleted by the evigilators, there is this great sense of accomplishment - and a tinge of regret that it is over!
One of the reasons why i wanted to leave practice was because i couldn't take the pre-trial feeling any longer. Yet, the reason i stayed on is cuz conducting the trial gives me such a rush! Strange-eh?
Well, back to last week, as i walked to the Sports Hall where me exam is gonna take place, i reminded meself of the same verse that came to me mind the nite before my Human Rights exam during my undergraduate days - Phil 4v6-7. Never undermine the vaue of scripture memorising!
And as during me undergraduate days, as during me CLP days, as in those moments before a major hearing, and every other time i felt weakened with worry, i experience the peace of God. I just cannot explain it. It's not like wat i was worrying about is not there anymore. I still is. But yet, the burden is lifted - inexplicably.
Truly, it is a peace that passes all understanding.
p/s - pic taken by Weng Soon during an OA outreach trip in 2004 using me Nikon Coolpix 2100
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Toy Soldiers - Martika
All boys grow up playing wif toy soldiers. While all eventually grow up, not all stop! They just progress to action figures! :-)
I'm so excited cuz Spawn.com just announced that they'll be doing figures from Lost!!!!!! Among them will be Charlie as seen below. Cool-eh?
It has been so long since i left my money-wasting, figure-collecting days. The only reason i stopped was cuz i stopped working - no more money to waste!!! But yes, i have been keeping track of the figure collecting world - and if i can't own them, at least i can still dream of them! Here are some of the figs on me wish-list. Note, just some!!!!
The Lord of the Rings, of course!
Spawn oso will be releasing a Hanna Barbara cartoon series! Below are Hong Kong Phooey and Quick Draw McGraw as El Kabong (wif his Kangonger!!!!) Who remembers HKP???? And i absolutely love El Kabong!!!! I was salivating when i saw the figs!!!!
While we are at toys, check out this really cool lego piece - inspired by the picture entitled "Relativity" (see below).
I'm so excited cuz Spawn.com just announced that they'll be doing figures from Lost!!!!!! Among them will be Charlie as seen below. Cool-eh?
It has been so long since i left my money-wasting, figure-collecting days. The only reason i stopped was cuz i stopped working - no more money to waste!!! But yes, i have been keeping track of the figure collecting world - and if i can't own them, at least i can still dream of them! Here are some of the figs on me wish-list. Note, just some!!!!
The Lord of the Rings, of course!
Spawn oso will be releasing a Hanna Barbara cartoon series! Below are Hong Kong Phooey and Quick Draw McGraw as El Kabong (wif his Kangonger!!!!) Who remembers HKP???? And i absolutely love El Kabong!!!! I was salivating when i saw the figs!!!!
Star Wars. Enuf said.
Some anime - Evangelion! Look at the super-poseability of the figs! Uber-cool!
Altho i've never watched Macross, this is so brilliant!!
Other misc figs - Superman and Shaun!
While we are at toys, check out this really cool lego piece - inspired by the picture entitled "Relativity" (see below).
All pics obtained from various sites!
