this is going to sound a bit too emo for my regular self....
but perhaps i am not my normal self at the moment.
where the hell are you when i need you?
f...
Monday, May 17, 2010
Monday, May 3, 2010
healthy living..
There's so much to healthy living.
I have a goal... and that is before I leave to country to go home, I will be satisfied with the way that I look in my swimsuit!
I got myself some dumbbells (they're light, 2kg each). Hopefully that will help tone my arms a bit. I don't exactly want to be pumping iron.. don't want manly arms, just toned.
And, in addition to that... is the thing that I really don't like the most: watching what I eat. and keeping track that I burn more than I eat. Counting... is such a hassle.
And, planning. There is so much planning involved in being healthy! E.g. what are you going to eat in the morning, what are you going to eat for a snack, for lunch... and dinner (well, I guess that's a little easier cos I'm at home - but what about when I'm at school?) Where do I get all that food from?!
Aside from the hassle of getting the right foods (really not something that one can find at liberty within school grounds), I've really enjoyed the exercising part! Over the last couple of days at least. I did get quite a bit of marking (i.e. work) done but I also did weights everyday and I ran or swam!
It's been god. It feels good to swim - I swam 400m on Saturday (a first time swimming that much in one session). I can't wait to get back to the pool and swim again! Maybe on Wed... we'll see. And running... I'm so glad that I have the school track to run on. Running on the pavement is really hard on my toes. That, or my socks aren't thick enough. One of my left toes keep blistering, and I'm only doing about 2k. Speaking of which, I didn't even get to 2k today... i went ot for a run at 1:30pm. Don't think I'll be doing that again.. it was shady when I left the house, by the time I got to the park connector, the sun was blazing... it was so hot. Usually, there's a lot of shade along the park connector, but not the angle that the sun is at one-thirty in the afternoon.
We'll see how long I can keep this up... I'll keep you posted about the progress. We'll see if we end up looking any different. One month - maybe, maybe not.
I have a goal... and that is before I leave to country to go home, I will be satisfied with the way that I look in my swimsuit!
I got myself some dumbbells (they're light, 2kg each). Hopefully that will help tone my arms a bit. I don't exactly want to be pumping iron.. don't want manly arms, just toned.
And, in addition to that... is the thing that I really don't like the most: watching what I eat. and keeping track that I burn more than I eat. Counting... is such a hassle.
And, planning. There is so much planning involved in being healthy! E.g. what are you going to eat in the morning, what are you going to eat for a snack, for lunch... and dinner (well, I guess that's a little easier cos I'm at home - but what about when I'm at school?) Where do I get all that food from?!
Aside from the hassle of getting the right foods (really not something that one can find at liberty within school grounds), I've really enjoyed the exercising part! Over the last couple of days at least. I did get quite a bit of marking (i.e. work) done but I also did weights everyday and I ran or swam!
It's been god. It feels good to swim - I swam 400m on Saturday (a first time swimming that much in one session). I can't wait to get back to the pool and swim again! Maybe on Wed... we'll see. And running... I'm so glad that I have the school track to run on. Running on the pavement is really hard on my toes. That, or my socks aren't thick enough. One of my left toes keep blistering, and I'm only doing about 2k. Speaking of which, I didn't even get to 2k today... i went ot for a run at 1:30pm. Don't think I'll be doing that again.. it was shady when I left the house, by the time I got to the park connector, the sun was blazing... it was so hot. Usually, there's a lot of shade along the park connector, but not the angle that the sun is at one-thirty in the afternoon.
We'll see how long I can keep this up... I'll keep you posted about the progress. We'll see if we end up looking any different. One month - maybe, maybe not.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The same question...
Over and over again....
What is it that I really want?
It is that same question, over and over again... that crops up...
that I don't know how to answer... that I cannot answer because I don't have the answers to it.
What is it that I really want?
It is that same question, over and over again... that crops up...
that I don't know how to answer... that I cannot answer because I don't have the answers to it.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Days passing by...
The last few weeks have been quite hectic. I come home at seven or eight in the evening, take my supper and continue to work into the night.
It just seems that the days are passing by way too fast. It's almost been a year - it's gone by way too fast...
I want to slow time down. Imagine a hercules trying to slow the spin of the earth, to slow the passing of time, yet not slow the events.
It's already almost been a quarter century, and sometimes I think to myself: what have I accomplish, what have I achieved? I begin many things without mastering.
Anyways, just my thoughts.. Life is really too short for it to just pass by... So much I want to do before I go, before.... And somehow, in someway, I'm not letting myself do as much as I really can..
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Sunday, March 7, 2010
The Red Pill
More recently, I think I've come to realize reality.
The reality of the working world. That this is how much of my time and life it will consume. That I will ne to put in this much, if I want to achieve proportionate amounts.
You see, I never thought that my job included many of the things that I am currently doing. It has been rather difficult for the last six months to try to get used to the culture here. Or, perhaps that was the excuse that I was giving myself. As a newbie on the job, I was lucky and was given only a portion of the responsibilities of that of a regular.
When January rolled around the corner, lo and behold, i was not longer treated as a newbie. With six months under the belt, I was given the full responsibility. And, boy, did that shock, stun and surprise me all at the same time. I felt overwhelmed and flabbergasted with all the responsibilities that were expected of me. Note, not even something that was considered beyond expectations... this was just meeting it.
I know that I've been fighting it. Fighting the different working hours, the holidays that we did/did not get, the different customs, the different responsibilities, etc, etc., etc....
Somewhere ... the red pill dawned on me, subconsciously, perhaps. Somewhere and somehow, I stopped fighting it. I didn't want to feel bitter and bicker about it anymore. I was a bit sick of complaining. I found that I enjoyed myself much more. I put more of myself into doing what I did. Put more thought into planning and executing the things that I'd planned.
the last few weeks have been really crazy. I'm finding it hard to find the energy to study after coming home from a 12,13 hour day at work.
Experienced a lot of first-times this year. My first time preparing a lecture for 800 students. My first time making an announcement in front of 800 students. I must have rehearsed it at least 5 times before going to bed, and another 5 times before presenting it. It was nerve-wracking. It's been a long time since I've felt those pangs of nervousness speaking in public, but after speaking for a few a little while, it seemed so natural. I am happy that it went well.
I think I'm reaching the point where I feel like I'm about to break, but I only find that I don't. Instead, i get stretched. The more I take on, the more I'll be able to take on. it's scary.
I feel like i'm about to burn out, but I find that I don't.
rest is almost around the corner. June is coming.
I can't wait to go home.
The reality of the working world. That this is how much of my time and life it will consume. That I will ne to put in this much, if I want to achieve proportionate amounts.
You see, I never thought that my job included many of the things that I am currently doing. It has been rather difficult for the last six months to try to get used to the culture here. Or, perhaps that was the excuse that I was giving myself. As a newbie on the job, I was lucky and was given only a portion of the responsibilities of that of a regular.
When January rolled around the corner, lo and behold, i was not longer treated as a newbie. With six months under the belt, I was given the full responsibility. And, boy, did that shock, stun and surprise me all at the same time. I felt overwhelmed and flabbergasted with all the responsibilities that were expected of me. Note, not even something that was considered beyond expectations... this was just meeting it.
I know that I've been fighting it. Fighting the different working hours, the holidays that we did/did not get, the different customs, the different responsibilities, etc, etc., etc....
Somewhere ... the red pill dawned on me, subconsciously, perhaps. Somewhere and somehow, I stopped fighting it. I didn't want to feel bitter and bicker about it anymore. I was a bit sick of complaining. I found that I enjoyed myself much more. I put more of myself into doing what I did. Put more thought into planning and executing the things that I'd planned.
the last few weeks have been really crazy. I'm finding it hard to find the energy to study after coming home from a 12,13 hour day at work.
Experienced a lot of first-times this year. My first time preparing a lecture for 800 students. My first time making an announcement in front of 800 students. I must have rehearsed it at least 5 times before going to bed, and another 5 times before presenting it. It was nerve-wracking. It's been a long time since I've felt those pangs of nervousness speaking in public, but after speaking for a few a little while, it seemed so natural. I am happy that it went well.
I think I'm reaching the point where I feel like I'm about to break, but I only find that I don't. Instead, i get stretched. The more I take on, the more I'll be able to take on. it's scary.
I feel like i'm about to burn out, but I find that I don't.
rest is almost around the corner. June is coming.
I can't wait to go home.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
New School Year
Quite pumped up and excited about this new year,
and looking forward to it!
Hope things will continue to go well!
and looking forward to it!
Hope things will continue to go well!
Monday, February 1, 2010
A Long Time Coming
It's been a long time, but I think I am finally ready.
There are still many things that I have to come to terms with, things that I'm not quite clear of or sure even exist. The only way I can think of to describe it is: it's like knowing that there is something going on, not know where or how, or what it is that is going on...but then someone describes exactly what you are going through. And, the pieces fall in place. The pieces fit so closely and the picture becomes so clear! That's exactly how I feel.
And, I feel that I am ready. Ready to take the first baby step. The first of many.
I can't wait to see how it goes.
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Saturday, January 30, 2010
Being creative...
Here's a spur of creativity, I'd like to think...
Sitting in a warmly lit room, the sun at my back pours in to fill,
Waves of lounge and jazz reverberate to a familiar pulse
Images of people and faces as they walk by, talk by reflect the urgency of a need to ...
Thought glaze over my head like a razor grazes over skin. It's like an image that flashes by, but leaving deep imprints.
So wanting to hold on, yet helplessly watching it be let go...
It's like stretching out your hand to grasp, those dancing stars of your mind. They are so close, so near, yet so ever unreachable.
Sitting still, legs crosses, propped on the immovable sofa
The busy bustle continues around. The world spins endlessly about a still point.
Different shapes, different sizes, move toward and past.
High sounds, low sounds, dance about all around.
Little bells ringing, tiny mouths giggling, I wonder what it's like to be an infant again.
People talking, texting, typing.
In flips, in flops, in flats, in talls.
Things just don't stop.
I wonder but for a moment, what it would be like, to step away. To be outside. To turn back and take a look behind.
What if this world stopped spinning just for a moment, if it froze for me to explore it, what would I find?
The things to do, the choices to pick, decisions to make and sacrifices at stake...
Where will all this lead to? Someplace beyond. Someplace further.
To Randomness and Rowdy-ness, Laughter and lovelyness. Things feel that much better.
Sent via BlackBerry from SingTel!
Sitting in a warmly lit room, the sun at my back pours in to fill,
Waves of lounge and jazz reverberate to a familiar pulse
Images of people and faces as they walk by, talk by reflect the urgency of a need to ...
Thought glaze over my head like a razor grazes over skin. It's like an image that flashes by, but leaving deep imprints.
So wanting to hold on, yet helplessly watching it be let go...
It's like stretching out your hand to grasp, those dancing stars of your mind. They are so close, so near, yet so ever unreachable.
Sitting still, legs crosses, propped on the immovable sofa
The busy bustle continues around. The world spins endlessly about a still point.
Different shapes, different sizes, move toward and past.
High sounds, low sounds, dance about all around.
Little bells ringing, tiny mouths giggling, I wonder what it's like to be an infant again.
People talking, texting, typing.
In flips, in flops, in flats, in talls.
Things just don't stop.
I wonder but for a moment, what it would be like, to step away. To be outside. To turn back and take a look behind.
What if this world stopped spinning just for a moment, if it froze for me to explore it, what would I find?
The things to do, the choices to pick, decisions to make and sacrifices at stake...
Where will all this lead to? Someplace beyond. Someplace further.
To Randomness and Rowdy-ness, Laughter and lovelyness. Things feel that much better.
Sent via BlackBerry from SingTel!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Dad visiting this weekend
My dad's coming for the weekend!!
Thinking of taking him to a few places around town:
Clarke Quay (we need to do the bum boat)
Geylang (for food and durian)
Vivocity for the view
Chinatown
Little india
Raffles
City Hall
Lau Sat Pat
We'll see if we can fit everything in the short time that he'll be here!
Thinking of taking him to a few places around town:
Clarke Quay (we need to do the bum boat)
Geylang (for food and durian)
Vivocity for the view
Chinatown
Little india
Raffles
City Hall
Lau Sat Pat
We'll see if we can fit everything in the short time that he'll be here!
Friday, January 15, 2010
The Story of Stuff
The Story of Stuff
Posted using ShareThis
Got this through an e-mail Chris sent me, there's a pretty good flash video about 'stuff', all the stuff that we have and the stuff that we use. I think it's a really excellent video for students to watch during an environment lesson.
"Slow Death by Rubber Duck" is a Canadian Bestseller and another source where we can learn more about stuff.
At the same time that it's made me aware of how the stuff that we use pollutes us, I'm feeling a bit skeptical (and perhaps 'hopeless' is a better word) about change. I would love for the world to change... but my vision of that was shattered a while ago. I used to think that we could eradicate poverty. But I've lost hope in that. maybe there's too much greed in this world. But even if there isn't, all it takes is just one bad apple...
During training today, the facilitator mentioned that the main aim of community service groups is termination. After mulling over that a bit, I agree with him (maybe not for ALL organizations, but for many). We initiate charity organizations, non-profit organizations because we see a need for them. A few examples are: Let'sSTOPAIDS, Cancer Foundations, homeless shelters... these all aim to help people who are in need and I do think that they want to terminate whatever is causing the problem. To: StopAids, Cure Cancer, and get people off the streets.
We have a universal education right by UNESCO to help eradicate poverty... so many things are put in place in hopes of stopping the harm that humans have caused. But do all these solutions address the root of the problems?
I know that a lot of people are trying to right many wrongs. A lot of people are doing a lot of good out there, and I believe that their efforts are helping and in part in the making of making this world a better place.... but there are big stakeholders that don't budge. There are so many examples of such stakeholders and as cynical as I am, our "good-doing" are midgets compared to the big giants.
Every time I want to make a change and initiate something, I hit this block.
Maybe I need a little more faith. Just a little more faith.......
Posted using ShareThis
Got this through an e-mail Chris sent me, there's a pretty good flash video about 'stuff', all the stuff that we have and the stuff that we use. I think it's a really excellent video for students to watch during an environment lesson.
"Slow Death by Rubber Duck" is a Canadian Bestseller and another source where we can learn more about stuff.
At the same time that it's made me aware of how the stuff that we use pollutes us, I'm feeling a bit skeptical (and perhaps 'hopeless' is a better word) about change. I would love for the world to change... but my vision of that was shattered a while ago. I used to think that we could eradicate poverty. But I've lost hope in that. maybe there's too much greed in this world. But even if there isn't, all it takes is just one bad apple...
During training today, the facilitator mentioned that the main aim of community service groups is termination. After mulling over that a bit, I agree with him (maybe not for ALL organizations, but for many). We initiate charity organizations, non-profit organizations because we see a need for them. A few examples are: Let'sSTOPAIDS, Cancer Foundations, homeless shelters... these all aim to help people who are in need and I do think that they want to terminate whatever is causing the problem. To: StopAids, Cure Cancer, and get people off the streets.
We have a universal education right by UNESCO to help eradicate poverty... so many things are put in place in hopes of stopping the harm that humans have caused. But do all these solutions address the root of the problems?
I know that a lot of people are trying to right many wrongs. A lot of people are doing a lot of good out there, and I believe that their efforts are helping and in part in the making of making this world a better place.... but there are big stakeholders that don't budge. There are so many examples of such stakeholders and as cynical as I am, our "good-doing" are midgets compared to the big giants.
Every time I want to make a change and initiate something, I hit this block.
Maybe I need a little more faith. Just a little more faith.......
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Getting ready...
Alright, big day tomorrow!
A bit nervous, a bit jumpy for the big day!
:)
I guess it's a good thing.
A bit nervous, a bit jumpy for the big day!
:)
I guess it's a good thing.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Another Year, A Fresh Start
I guess this is the really neat part about my job.
Every year is a fresh page, a new start.
This year will be different. It seems as if it is my "real" year. I get to start right from the start (opposed to in the middle as I did last year).
I meet them on Monday. I'm nervous, and I know it's normal. For my anyways.
After stepping out of the boardroom today, I felt overwhelmed. I know that it was just a feeling, and that it was from the nature of the situation: an information overload. It was, in a way, necessary for everyone to understand everything in a short period of time, because that was the only time left for information transfer. Now that it's a few hours and a movie later, I feel a bit better.
I have a better understanding of where things fit in on the timeline.
It will be busy, sometimes crazy busy, but I'm looking forward to it. I'm looking forward to the connections and bonds that I will make, the new friendships, and rekindling the oldships.
Every year is a fresh page, a new start.
This year will be different. It seems as if it is my "real" year. I get to start right from the start (opposed to in the middle as I did last year).
I meet them on Monday. I'm nervous, and I know it's normal. For my anyways.
After stepping out of the boardroom today, I felt overwhelmed. I know that it was just a feeling, and that it was from the nature of the situation: an information overload. It was, in a way, necessary for everyone to understand everything in a short period of time, because that was the only time left for information transfer. Now that it's a few hours and a movie later, I feel a bit better.
I have a better understanding of where things fit in on the timeline.
It will be busy, sometimes crazy busy, but I'm looking forward to it. I'm looking forward to the connections and bonds that I will make, the new friendships, and rekindling the oldships.
"Invictus"
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
William Ernest Henley
I can imagine a lot of reviews, blogs, tweets and writings about this poem, about this movie.
I watched it with a colleague earlier this afternoon after learning that Invictus is about Nelson Mandella and South Africa. I also walked into the theatre asking myself how I'd be able to link this movie to the subject that I teach. I learned something today, and I'm glad I sat for the show. I think that the movie acts as a good starting place for those who don't really know about the political situation back in the 1990s in South Africa (i.e. myself). Not to mention it's also a good way to learn a bit about Rugby (I learned that you score 3 points kicking a ball between the posts - so that's what the posts are for!). I also think this movie would be a good one to show students to get them thinking about the racial tensions and why Mandella did certain things (to eas the tension, etc). This movie does cover quite a spectrum of topics that we cover in class, ranging from Politics to Prejudice.
Think I might just make a DVD recommendation to the school. We'll see.
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
William Ernest Henley
I can imagine a lot of reviews, blogs, tweets and writings about this poem, about this movie.
I watched it with a colleague earlier this afternoon after learning that Invictus is about Nelson Mandella and South Africa. I also walked into the theatre asking myself how I'd be able to link this movie to the subject that I teach. I learned something today, and I'm glad I sat for the show. I think that the movie acts as a good starting place for those who don't really know about the political situation back in the 1990s in South Africa (i.e. myself). Not to mention it's also a good way to learn a bit about Rugby (I learned that you score 3 points kicking a ball between the posts - so that's what the posts are for!). I also think this movie would be a good one to show students to get them thinking about the racial tensions and why Mandella did certain things (to eas the tension, etc). This movie does cover quite a spectrum of topics that we cover in class, ranging from Politics to Prejudice.
Think I might just make a DVD recommendation to the school. We'll see.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Memiors of a Geisha
Suyuri.
Yet again, I chance upon another movie that I had wanted to watch for a very long time. This time, the movie sitting in my room for the last month, under the demise of another name unknown to me. I hadn't realized this DVD set was that of a Geisha's! It was a good watch. In between my trying to figure out where I recognize each actor from, it was a cute story. I wonder if the Geisha were really like that. If the customs were as they were portrayed in the movie. I suppose I'll have to watch the 2nd DVD, the one about their production (and behind the scenes). Since I bought the Japanese version, I can't read the titles of the different chapters, means I get to watch the whole thing!
So much i want to read, watch and indulge myself in!
Life really is a bit short to fit all these things in. My infamous question: why must I choose? Why can't I have both? (In this case, it's why can't I do it all?! The only answer i've received from that so far is: because cest la vie.)
Yet again, I chance upon another movie that I had wanted to watch for a very long time. This time, the movie sitting in my room for the last month, under the demise of another name unknown to me. I hadn't realized this DVD set was that of a Geisha's! It was a good watch. In between my trying to figure out where I recognize each actor from, it was a cute story. I wonder if the Geisha were really like that. If the customs were as they were portrayed in the movie. I suppose I'll have to watch the 2nd DVD, the one about their production (and behind the scenes). Since I bought the Japanese version, I can't read the titles of the different chapters, means I get to watch the whole thing!
So much i want to read, watch and indulge myself in!
Life really is a bit short to fit all these things in. My infamous question: why must I choose? Why can't I have both? (In this case, it's why can't I do it all?! The only answer i've received from that so far is: because cest la vie.)
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Moulin Rogue
I finally watch this classic love tragedy a decade (probably even longer) later.
I see Nicole Kidman in a different light. She is a beautiful woman. In that movie at least. A wishful, tragic drama. A bit too wishful, and I suppose there were some bits that flowed a little funny, some parts that didn't seem realistic, but an okay drama/musical nonetheless.
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Movies to catch... At some point
Invictus
Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.)
The Informant
Salt (another JOLIE movie! There are a few Jolie ones that I want to see Changeling, Brave Heart)
Alice in Wonderland - mmm, Johnny Depp. There are also a number of this movies that I haven't seen.
The Proposal
Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.)
The Informant
Salt (another JOLIE movie! There are a few Jolie ones that I want to see Changeling, Brave Heart)
Alice in Wonderland - mmm, Johnny Depp. There are also a number of this movies that I haven't seen.
The Proposal
To be updated.
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Friday, December 25, 2009
A Merry Christmas
Came home from a very filled Christmas day. I think this is one of the fullest that I've ha, at least from what I can remember.
Lunch Buffet with a good family here in Singapore. They have been so kind, warm and welcoming, long before I even set foot on Singapore soil. I am very grateful and fortunate to have had such lovely hospitality from them. In a land where I know no one, it is very nice to have someone reach out their helping hands to you.
After spending my lunch with the wonderful family, they drove me home and I prepared to set off for my next celebration with the dear friends that I've made in Singapore. Ann Marie invited me to her house for Christmas Dinner. My ignorance did not serve me well. Nor did my bad manners. They were very fine people indeed to embrace the situation despite my ignorance and my bad manners. Big people with big hearts. I am lucky to have these people around me, to support me and be here in Singapore with me. It was a lovely Christmas spent with them indeed. To come to think of it, I think that was one of my first Christmas Dinners where there was turkey, ham and a fully blown meal. Thank you for allowing me to experience that in Singapore.
On my way home, I was greeted by a nice taxi man who wished me a very merry christmas when I stepped into the cab. Very nice way to end the evening.
Tomorrow is another day. Tomorrow I will head out to the University for my first Chemistry tutorial. I want to learn something and get something from that session, so I will. :)
As 2009 draws to an end, I wonder to myself, what will 2010 bring? One thing that I have learnt, if I want something, I can't still, wait and wish for it to come to me. I need to go out and GET it.
Lunch Buffet with a good family here in Singapore. They have been so kind, warm and welcoming, long before I even set foot on Singapore soil. I am very grateful and fortunate to have had such lovely hospitality from them. In a land where I know no one, it is very nice to have someone reach out their helping hands to you.
After spending my lunch with the wonderful family, they drove me home and I prepared to set off for my next celebration with the dear friends that I've made in Singapore. Ann Marie invited me to her house for Christmas Dinner. My ignorance did not serve me well. Nor did my bad manners. They were very fine people indeed to embrace the situation despite my ignorance and my bad manners. Big people with big hearts. I am lucky to have these people around me, to support me and be here in Singapore with me. It was a lovely Christmas spent with them indeed. To come to think of it, I think that was one of my first Christmas Dinners where there was turkey, ham and a fully blown meal. Thank you for allowing me to experience that in Singapore.
On my way home, I was greeted by a nice taxi man who wished me a very merry christmas when I stepped into the cab. Very nice way to end the evening.
Tomorrow is another day. Tomorrow I will head out to the University for my first Chemistry tutorial. I want to learn something and get something from that session, so I will. :)
As 2009 draws to an end, I wonder to myself, what will 2010 bring? One thing that I have learnt, if I want something, I can't still, wait and wish for it to come to me. I need to go out and GET it.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Scissors
Edward Scissorhands. That was Johnny Depp, and that was Winona Ryder - this movie is an oldie. Indeed, a 1990 movie, a good nine years prior to Girl Interrupted (1999) where Winona starred along with Angelina Jolie and Brittany Murphy in another good movie.
Johnny Depp does not cease to amaze me with his talent. I knew it said Johnny Depp on the cover of the DVD, it just didn't seem like him. But then again, neither does it seem like him in Pirates, or the Secret Window, or anything he acts in really. He is one of the actors that I really admire for being able to portray the character so well that we forget the man behind the man we see is Johnny Depp. In Scissorhands, from his speech, to the way he walked, his emotions, and actions. I just couldn't find Johnny or any resemblance of him! Maybe it was the make up, or some sort of synthetic device to change the pitch of his voice, but whatever it was, it fooled me good.
I really need to get my hands on Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. I guess he doesn't leave Scissors, eh?
Johnny Depp does not cease to amaze me with his talent. I knew it said Johnny Depp on the cover of the DVD, it just didn't seem like him. But then again, neither does it seem like him in Pirates, or the Secret Window, or anything he acts in really. He is one of the actors that I really admire for being able to portray the character so well that we forget the man behind the man we see is Johnny Depp. In Scissorhands, from his speech, to the way he walked, his emotions, and actions. I just couldn't find Johnny or any resemblance of him! Maybe it was the make up, or some sort of synthetic device to change the pitch of his voice, but whatever it was, it fooled me good.
I really need to get my hands on Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. I guess he doesn't leave Scissors, eh?
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Welcome 2010
As 2009 draws to an end...
Thinking back unto this year. So many things have happened. It seems that drastic changes have taken place with the snap of fingers. Time has flown by, really like the blink of an eye.
I had set out to accomplish several things when I set out on my journey to a country half-way across the world, alone, away from my family and friends. I had made promises to my friends, my loved ones, and myself. I was thinking of evaluating how far I'd come in achieving those goals and promises, but am deciding against doing that. After reading a blog about keeping new years resolutions, I think i'm going to have a different approach to this resolution setting thing. And thus, not really a need to evaluate my own progress in lieu of the "new year", because my goals have nothing to do with the new year.
I would like to write about an inspiration from Karen Au regarding about how I count my days. It was really something that struck a chord somewhere. To count my days with the connections that I make and break. Thanks for sharing that.
I've also written somewhere before, and more recently, remember talking to someone about the one ting that i've learned. And that this, if I want something, I need to go and get it. It doesn't necessarily mean snatching or forcefully taking. It does mean I need to be assertive, and at times even a little aggressive in taking action to get what I want done.
Another lesson about 'doing things' that I need to remember is that doing something (even though it might turn out not as great as one would have hoped/wanted) is better than not doing anything at all. I've found that with my numerous encounters with friends and family, my final decision of action ends up being: nothing. I don't take any action because I don't want to make a wrong move, I don't want to make things worse than they already are. I would like to remedy the situation, but I don't know how I can go about ensuring that my actions will really make things better instead of worse. And working within the time constraints (because actions need to be taken within a certain time frame of the event to be effective) is not my strength. Most times, I am slow at thinking of good solutions or actions to take. By the time I come up with a solution, the time to action has already long gone. The end results ends up being the same - that the action is: nothing.
More recently, i've noticed that my inaction speaks louder than my actions. Or at least, I think that they leave a longer lasting impressions. Not necessarily for the better. I think because when i display 'inaction', the message that is received/perceived from the other party is that of apathy, lack of support, that I don't care. I also forget that silence most of the time means silent consent. When I am silent, I am thinking and trying to analyze what the person's just said. I also forget that the person I'm talking to doesn't know this, and I forget to tell them that I'm thinking about what they've just said. I spend a lot of silent moments trying to think of how to express my ideas (or perhaps I might agree with some of your p.o.v, but not entirely). But, I take a bit too long, and the time has passed and we've already moved onto another topic. The person having taken my "silence" as consent to their p.o.v. A wee bit problematic, innit?
The list continues, but it's a bit boring talking about all this social conundrums and how they fit (or don't) into my life. I know that some of my friends would say: Knowing and accepting is the first step. True. now, let's try to take the next step.
I'm looking forward to 2010. Looking forward to learning about life and what it brings. It's as good as we make it, and I'm looking forward to making it a good one, regardless of the ups and downs that it might throw at me. Much easier said than done. But whatever happens, life will go on with or without you. We need to move on.
Thinking back unto this year. So many things have happened. It seems that drastic changes have taken place with the snap of fingers. Time has flown by, really like the blink of an eye.
I had set out to accomplish several things when I set out on my journey to a country half-way across the world, alone, away from my family and friends. I had made promises to my friends, my loved ones, and myself. I was thinking of evaluating how far I'd come in achieving those goals and promises, but am deciding against doing that. After reading a blog about keeping new years resolutions, I think i'm going to have a different approach to this resolution setting thing. And thus, not really a need to evaluate my own progress in lieu of the "new year", because my goals have nothing to do with the new year.
I would like to write about an inspiration from Karen Au regarding about how I count my days. It was really something that struck a chord somewhere. To count my days with the connections that I make and break. Thanks for sharing that.
I've also written somewhere before, and more recently, remember talking to someone about the one ting that i've learned. And that this, if I want something, I need to go and get it. It doesn't necessarily mean snatching or forcefully taking. It does mean I need to be assertive, and at times even a little aggressive in taking action to get what I want done.
Another lesson about 'doing things' that I need to remember is that doing something (even though it might turn out not as great as one would have hoped/wanted) is better than not doing anything at all. I've found that with my numerous encounters with friends and family, my final decision of action ends up being: nothing. I don't take any action because I don't want to make a wrong move, I don't want to make things worse than they already are. I would like to remedy the situation, but I don't know how I can go about ensuring that my actions will really make things better instead of worse. And working within the time constraints (because actions need to be taken within a certain time frame of the event to be effective) is not my strength. Most times, I am slow at thinking of good solutions or actions to take. By the time I come up with a solution, the time to action has already long gone. The end results ends up being the same - that the action is: nothing.
More recently, i've noticed that my inaction speaks louder than my actions. Or at least, I think that they leave a longer lasting impressions. Not necessarily for the better. I think because when i display 'inaction', the message that is received/perceived from the other party is that of apathy, lack of support, that I don't care. I also forget that silence most of the time means silent consent. When I am silent, I am thinking and trying to analyze what the person's just said. I also forget that the person I'm talking to doesn't know this, and I forget to tell them that I'm thinking about what they've just said. I spend a lot of silent moments trying to think of how to express my ideas (or perhaps I might agree with some of your p.o.v, but not entirely). But, I take a bit too long, and the time has passed and we've already moved onto another topic. The person having taken my "silence" as consent to their p.o.v. A wee bit problematic, innit?
The list continues, but it's a bit boring talking about all this social conundrums and how they fit (or don't) into my life. I know that some of my friends would say: Knowing and accepting is the first step. True. now, let's try to take the next step.
I'm looking forward to 2010. Looking forward to learning about life and what it brings. It's as good as we make it, and I'm looking forward to making it a good one, regardless of the ups and downs that it might throw at me. Much easier said than done. But whatever happens, life will go on with or without you. We need to move on.
起初的愛心
Found this playing in on my shuffle list.
It hit a chord and resonated with a certain string. 起初的愛心.
尋回起初的愛心
如我的心被冷冰封鎖 我無力關心他人
重記主恩為我竟犧牲 請你重燃我心
回望我主十架中犧牲 我流淚為何忘掉救恩
求你賜恩讓我可更生 重建舊日的愛
重拾信心 尋回起初的愛心
原來主愛未離棄 眷顧我已成就救恩
重建愛心 敬拜我主用盡我心
獻上我一生作活祭 我要以你愛服待人
重拾信心 尋回失落了的心
原來主愛沒嫌棄 挽救我已尋獲永生
重建愛心 敬拜我主用盡我心
獻上我一生作活祭 我要以你愛服侍人
Thanks to Hasan for the Link.
Credits to:
尋回起初的愛心 – 新曙光教會
作曲 朱仔
填詞 朱仔
主唱 鄧婉玲
監製 林少聰
錄音 鄧婉玲 @ 有聲奶昔
It hit a chord and resonated with a certain string. 起初的愛心.
尋回起初的愛心
如我的心被冷冰封鎖 我無力關心他人
重記主恩為我竟犧牲 請你重燃我心
回望我主十架中犧牲 我流淚為何忘掉救恩
求你賜恩讓我可更生 重建舊日的愛
重拾信心 尋回起初的愛心
原來主愛未離棄 眷顧我已成就救恩
重建愛心 敬拜我主用盡我心
獻上我一生作活祭 我要以你愛服待人
重拾信心 尋回失落了的心
原來主愛沒嫌棄 挽救我已尋獲永生
重建愛心 敬拜我主用盡我心
獻上我一生作活祭 我要以你愛服侍人
Thanks to Hasan for the Link.
Credits to:
尋回起初的愛心 – 新曙光教會
作曲 朱仔
填詞 朱仔
主唱 鄧婉玲
監製 林少聰
錄音 鄧婉玲 @ 有聲奶昔
Monday, December 21, 2009
Avatar
I've been wanting to see this movie ever since I saw the trailer back in Hong Kong, and I managed to fulfill that want today.
The 3-D version was a bit hit, and of course with only 1 hour til the show, only the first three rows were available. To my surprise, there was also a 2D playing, and good seats available. Surprising only because I couldn't locate the 2D version of it online.
I also need to mention that this is my first time going to see a movie alone, and I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I laughed laughs and managed to well up a few tears. I really liked it! I think I like it so much that I wouldn't mind going with friends to see the 3D version, provided that we can get seats somewhere remotely within the vicinity of the back of the cinema hall.
I don't want to share too much, but I do recommend this one.
And, while I'm on the topic of movies, I also watched Saw V and Saw VI recently. (Been taking "movie-watching" breaks in between my study sessions). I don't particularly like Saw VI, but Saw V is interesting. None of them match up to any one of the first three, though. As expected. I think the plot gets a bit messy, but you sort of think of yourself as a "fan" because you've seen the first one or two, so you might as well just continue and see what it's all about.
By the way, thankfully, I didn't/ haven't had any nightmares yet. Knock on wood.
Sent via BlackBerry from SingTel!
The 3-D version was a bit hit, and of course with only 1 hour til the show, only the first three rows were available. To my surprise, there was also a 2D playing, and good seats available. Surprising only because I couldn't locate the 2D version of it online.
I also need to mention that this is my first time going to see a movie alone, and I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I laughed laughs and managed to well up a few tears. I really liked it! I think I like it so much that I wouldn't mind going with friends to see the 3D version, provided that we can get seats somewhere remotely within the vicinity of the back of the cinema hall.
I don't want to share too much, but I do recommend this one.
And, while I'm on the topic of movies, I also watched Saw V and Saw VI recently. (Been taking "movie-watching" breaks in between my study sessions). I don't particularly like Saw VI, but Saw V is interesting. None of them match up to any one of the first three, though. As expected. I think the plot gets a bit messy, but you sort of think of yourself as a "fan" because you've seen the first one or two, so you might as well just continue and see what it's all about.
By the way, thankfully, I didn't/ haven't had any nightmares yet. Knock on wood.
Sent via BlackBerry from SingTel!
Friday, December 18, 2009
What's going on in Singapore Dec 2009
I started December off by being in Hong Kong. It was really good to be back. My last trip to HK was about a year and a half ago. The purpose of my trip was to visit family and friends, and I'm happy about my trip because those two purposes have been fulfilled. I've come to realize that we are always short on time, but we all only have so much - so, how do we choose to spend it?
I'm going through the loss of a friend, someone who played such a significant role in my life, as a friend, a confidant, a role model, a source of comfort and hope. I've never really experienced this before, and i'm not quite sure how to deal with it. I'm also not sure how to talk about it, but since the underlying purpose of my trip related to this, it felt natural to include it here. The purpose of my trip to HK was to spend time with my grandparents, to be with them while they are still here. Too many a time have I taken for granted and learned not how to cherish. Too many a time I hope there will be no more.
On another note, I have been studying for my MCAT to be written late April next year. Physics has been quite a challenge for me and I've found someone to help me. I am extremely grateful that I happened to find a physics instructor.
Browsing the internet: I've also been reading lifehacker.com quite religiously recently and have been downloading add-ons to my Firefox 3.5. A lot of neat things on that site! I'm also looking to get Windows & for my MacBook, but that might wait until the new year.
I'm going through the loss of a friend, someone who played such a significant role in my life, as a friend, a confidant, a role model, a source of comfort and hope. I've never really experienced this before, and i'm not quite sure how to deal with it. I'm also not sure how to talk about it, but since the underlying purpose of my trip related to this, it felt natural to include it here. The purpose of my trip to HK was to spend time with my grandparents, to be with them while they are still here. Too many a time have I taken for granted and learned not how to cherish. Too many a time I hope there will be no more.
On another note, I have been studying for my MCAT to be written late April next year. Physics has been quite a challenge for me and I've found someone to help me. I am extremely grateful that I happened to find a physics instructor.
Browsing the internet: I've also been reading lifehacker.com quite religiously recently and have been downloading add-ons to my Firefox 3.5. A lot of neat things on that site! I'm also looking to get Windows & for my MacBook, but that might wait until the new year.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Are things...
Really as messed up as they seem?
I mean, I'm not talking about that sort of messed up, but the other sort of messed up.
It's been five months now, and have I fulfilled or achieved my goals? Any of them?
truth be told. no. i hope that it's a 'not yet'.
I mean, I'm not talking about that sort of messed up, but the other sort of messed up.
It's been five months now, and have I fulfilled or achieved my goals? Any of them?
truth be told. no. i hope that it's a 'not yet'.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wake Up
This is something that I really need to do.
In terms of everything in life, it seems.
But, here's a funny that i'd like you to enjoy:
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
This Week
This week's been kinda crazy.
Started last Saturday.
Just a lot of things going on - things that I didn't think of thoroughly enough before promising.
Not checking my schedule before promising.
sighh.
Started last Saturday.
Just a lot of things going on - things that I didn't think of thoroughly enough before promising.
Not checking my schedule before promising.
sighh.
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