This came in for me from a good friend today. She's just heard about my recent breakup, and texted in to see if I was okay. Upon a few exchanges of smses, she wrote,
"Babe, one thing I've learned, we can't give up on anything. Be it work or personal, task or turmoil; when we get tired - which you are allowed to, by the way, one takes rest & carry on the effort. Nothing in life is easy. Remember if it is, then it's not heartfelt. Easy come, easy go! 6 years is surely a wonderful, beautiful phase of your prime youth that you've shared with him. So often we look at the good things, and continue to grunt about the not-so-good things. But it's the trying times that I believe makes a bond stronger. When it comes to affairs of the heart, no one's words is a comfort, no advice heals, nothing makes it better... That's just the brutal truth. So babe, you shut all those external voice and listen to the still voice from your heart. Right now, you are hurting and the thought in your mind could bounce against the voice from your heart... So for now, allow yourself to the pain. Once you've passed that, through all serenity, that silent still voice from within will deafen all logic & rationale. You are not being negative, only you know how your bond was & still probably is... He must be in your shoes too. Give it some time & say a prayer everyday for clarity of thought. Follow your heart, and most importantly, believe in it!"
As I teared reading these reflections through my handphone screen, I took her words to heart. Because no one could qualify to know life better than she did, after all the hardships she's gone through, and still empowered herself with such strength and clarity in mind. I knew she was right to have seen these through me. I finally came to understand, in a very simple context, and in a very uncomplicated manner, that it's okay to be tired. It is not a weakness, nor a sin to be tired. Because no one has ever promised that life's gonna be easy.
I wanted to script this down, so that I'll always remember the wisdom behind these words.
And I hope too, in it, I'll find solace & strength.
Showing posts with label Inspiration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Inspiration. Show all posts
Monday, November 2, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
A World Of Hope
You know how fortunate you are, when you come across the less-fortunate in your daily lives.
And you know how strong you can be, when you see how less-fortunate people fight their way to survive, and never give up. And you know how small, petty and insignificant your worries are, when you see that these people, under the circumstances where such hindrance keeps them away from feeling less than perfect, yet have the warmth of spirit so great within them.
I wouldn't say I've been roaming the streets a lot. But I've roamed enough to find, on the streets, the blinds with their trust-worthy walking sticks, beating the rush hour crowd, just to get to work, just like all of us do. I've seen people with just a leg, with their trustable crutches, balancing their way slowly to get to work, just like all of us do.
I like that within our realistic community, modernised society, there's a world that shows no discrimination towards the less-fortunate. I like that these people have jobs, just like we all do. An opportunity for them to earn a living, a place for them to feel they belong, and that they don't need to depend on sympathy just to stay alive, the chance for them to contribute to the society, and that they too, can succeed. But above all, I like that within our urbanized society, there are still kind, generous, helpful and warm people out there, right here in our very own busy city, who are just as willing to aid others - the ones that offer their seats to them, the ones that hold their hands and lead them across the busy streets, the ones who care enough.
It just gives you a glimpse of hope, that this world, as it is now, could be a better place - now that, is very touching. And to be reminded that it is never too late, to be kind. To be reminded that when things get rough in life, when the world gets realistic with you, you can always, strike a balance, and think of how the less-fortunate are more fortunate, grateful, and thankful, as compared to us.
And you know how strong you can be, when you see how less-fortunate people fight their way to survive, and never give up. And you know how small, petty and insignificant your worries are, when you see that these people, under the circumstances where such hindrance keeps them away from feeling less than perfect, yet have the warmth of spirit so great within them.
I wouldn't say I've been roaming the streets a lot. But I've roamed enough to find, on the streets, the blinds with their trust-worthy walking sticks, beating the rush hour crowd, just to get to work, just like all of us do. I've seen people with just a leg, with their trustable crutches, balancing their way slowly to get to work, just like all of us do.
I like that within our realistic community, modernised society, there's a world that shows no discrimination towards the less-fortunate. I like that these people have jobs, just like we all do. An opportunity for them to earn a living, a place for them to feel they belong, and that they don't need to depend on sympathy just to stay alive, the chance for them to contribute to the society, and that they too, can succeed. But above all, I like that within our urbanized society, there are still kind, generous, helpful and warm people out there, right here in our very own busy city, who are just as willing to aid others - the ones that offer their seats to them, the ones that hold their hands and lead them across the busy streets, the ones who care enough.
It just gives you a glimpse of hope, that this world, as it is now, could be a better place - now that, is very touching. And to be reminded that it is never too late, to be kind. To be reminded that when things get rough in life, when the world gets realistic with you, you can always, strike a balance, and think of how the less-fortunate are more fortunate, grateful, and thankful, as compared to us.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Potentially The Greatest Conquer (In My Life)
You know what's the best part about being spontaneous when you're planning for a holiday?
That there's no sound plan being arranged/organized/laid out for it.
And for that, you don't really have to be stressed all over to plan for a well-deserved holiday.
The keyword here is 'flexible'. And you know what flexible is putting me at "risk" now?
That a supposingly leisure jalan-jalan trip to Kota Kinabalu with a group of friends, might end up being a damn adventurous one!
The intention was a holiday. The target, however, was to conquer Mt Kinabalu! - the tallest mountain you can practically find in Borneo. (Next year that is). Thanks to AirAsia's famed zero-fare promotion. I seriously don't know how I'm going to survive my way up there. I hope I'll stay alive. Haha.
But well... If I ever make it up there, if all's going well, here's where I'll be standing & setting my feet on by next March!
I better start working my butts off in the next half a year so that I stay alive in the mission. Practically everything needs to be worked on - stamina, skills, tact, even on the little fear of heights I have! Haha. Wish me the best of luck (and lots of strength - mentally & physically), okay? If I ever die on my way up (or on my way down from) there, please always remember, I want to be remembered as 'the gal who died peacefully, and not in fear', okay? (Touch-wood) Haha!
That there's no sound plan being arranged/organized/laid out for it.
And for that, you don't really have to be stressed all over to plan for a well-deserved holiday.
The keyword here is 'flexible'. And you know what flexible is putting me at "risk" now?
That a supposingly leisure jalan-jalan trip to Kota Kinabalu with a group of friends, might end up being a damn adventurous one!
The intention was a holiday. The target, however, was to conquer Mt Kinabalu! - the tallest mountain you can practically find in Borneo. (Next year that is). Thanks to AirAsia's famed zero-fare promotion. I seriously don't know how I'm going to survive my way up there. I hope I'll stay alive. Haha.
But well... If I ever make it up there, if all's going well, here's where I'll be standing & setting my feet on by next March!
I better start working my butts off in the next half a year so that I stay alive in the mission. Practically everything needs to be worked on - stamina, skills, tact, even on the little fear of heights I have! Haha. Wish me the best of luck (and lots of strength - mentally & physically), okay? If I ever die on my way up (or on my way down from) there, please always remember, I want to be remembered as 'the gal who died peacefully, and not in fear', okay? (Touch-wood) Haha!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Passion
Yesterday, I had a fair chance of having a chat with my reporting director, who's by the way a great leader by the lengths of the achievements I've heard thus far. I've just never met her in person in my short tenure with the current role that I'm in, despite the numerous times of hearing her speak over team meetings through countless conference calls. So it's a little awkward given the thought that I'll be in a one-to-one session with a total stranger, and it was meant to be an informal 'chat'. But it all turned out real well. She's a superbly friendly and nice person to speak to, and she's not all about work. And I like that. Leaders who are not just all-work and no-play, are pretty people-oriented leaders. : )
Some where along the conversation, she actually got me thinking of a word. The word that stood out to me was passion. Yes, passion.
Now, I'm pretty sure when I was younger, I'd had ten times more passion towards life and towards the things I did than I have now. It's a rather cynical view to have, isn't it? I know. So what did I do about it after the call? I dived into my innermost thoughts (and judgmental emotions) to pin point what do I really have passion in. And you know what sprang into mind almost instantly? The word shopping. Haha. I have passion for shopping??! That's my passion?! Pathetic, I tell you. So I shrugged it off with a laugh and started the whole deep-in-thoughts process again to search for the right answer. [For the record, shopping does count as a passion. It's just never as healthy to the wallet. : ) ]
And there was never a right answer. There were actually.... a few of the right answers. Haha. And they go like this..
1. I thought if I've got passion for music, in music, towards music. And I think I do. If I could've learned more instruments, I would. If I've had the time to compose and write songs, I think I would too. If I were at the karaoke, I would've enjoyed singing too. I guess I just don't make a good musician as a career. It'd be awful if you see me, in a black tux suit, conducting an orchestra - can't imagine. I'd probably get thrown rotten eggs. Haha.
2. Teaching? Yea, I think I can teach. Probably kids, kindergarten? I'd probably find them cute and adorable, so it doesn't 'feel' like you're teaching anyway. But you know how kids are these days, right? They grow & learn faster than their age. What if I get questions like, "Teacher, what is sex? I overheard my parents talking bout it". What am I supposed to answer then? In this case then, again, I don't think I cut out to be a very tactful teacher.
3. What about travelling? Sure, I think I would've loved it if I can just travel and see the world with no worries. But that would require more financial dependence than you think you can afford. Become a tour guide then? But I wasn't really that good in history back in school, and plus, I'm bad in memorising things. Die... cannot also.
4. Designing? Not the fashion design, designing, but the architectural design, designing. Thought about it. Several times. Hmm... I don't know. Am I really that interested and good at it? Designs are rather subjective, abstract, perceptive things. And I never did score in my art back in schooling days either. I'd like to try out for fun, but not at the expense of earning none to survive with. So again, vague.
So how lah? Passion in thoughts, but not in action. Haha.
All I can say, is that I really lack passion in what I'm doing now. That's a recipe to fail & recipe for disaster. But all that said, I'm keeping all these KIV and calling it a day for now. Will be back for more posts soon. Have a great evening!
Some where along the conversation, she actually got me thinking of a word. The word that stood out to me was passion. Yes, passion.
Now, I'm pretty sure when I was younger, I'd had ten times more passion towards life and towards the things I did than I have now. It's a rather cynical view to have, isn't it? I know. So what did I do about it after the call? I dived into my innermost thoughts (and judgmental emotions) to pin point what do I really have passion in. And you know what sprang into mind almost instantly? The word shopping. Haha. I have passion for shopping??! That's my passion?! Pathetic, I tell you. So I shrugged it off with a laugh and started the whole deep-in-thoughts process again to search for the right answer. [For the record, shopping does count as a passion. It's just never as healthy to the wallet. : ) ]
And there was never a right answer. There were actually.... a few of the right answers. Haha. And they go like this..
1. I thought if I've got passion for music, in music, towards music. And I think I do. If I could've learned more instruments, I would. If I've had the time to compose and write songs, I think I would too. If I were at the karaoke, I would've enjoyed singing too. I guess I just don't make a good musician as a career. It'd be awful if you see me, in a black tux suit, conducting an orchestra - can't imagine. I'd probably get thrown rotten eggs. Haha.
2. Teaching? Yea, I think I can teach. Probably kids, kindergarten? I'd probably find them cute and adorable, so it doesn't 'feel' like you're teaching anyway. But you know how kids are these days, right? They grow & learn faster than their age. What if I get questions like, "Teacher, what is sex? I overheard my parents talking bout it". What am I supposed to answer then? In this case then, again, I don't think I cut out to be a very tactful teacher.
3. What about travelling? Sure, I think I would've loved it if I can just travel and see the world with no worries. But that would require more financial dependence than you think you can afford. Become a tour guide then? But I wasn't really that good in history back in school, and plus, I'm bad in memorising things. Die... cannot also.
4. Designing? Not the fashion design, designing, but the architectural design, designing. Thought about it. Several times. Hmm... I don't know. Am I really that interested and good at it? Designs are rather subjective, abstract, perceptive things. And I never did score in my art back in schooling days either. I'd like to try out for fun, but not at the expense of earning none to survive with. So again, vague.
So how lah? Passion in thoughts, but not in action. Haha.
All I can say, is that I really lack passion in what I'm doing now. That's a recipe to fail & recipe for disaster. But all that said, I'm keeping all these KIV and calling it a day for now. Will be back for more posts soon. Have a great evening!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Professional Blogging?
If you've been following my blog for a while now, you would've noticed the vast diversity in quality among the snapshots & photos provided throughout entries from the very start.
I hadn't really been putting much emphasis on how my photos should appear professional in any way, 'coz I was only blogging for fun's sake, for memory's sake, for life archive's sake, for my-eyes-only sake (in a way la).
And then, I find myself getting more and more picky on nice shots.
With my occasional handphone camera, and digicam as the only two trusted tools with me, I sometimes look at my photos, and I go "Hmm.. what kinda photo is that, how to put on blog?"
Haha... I know, macam professional blogger, right? Or some professional photographer.
But I assure you, I'm not. In fact I would think there's so much more to learn from taking a very nice shot from my digital camera. What more with an SLR one! So I'm gonna be aiming for a better camera, soon! Been eye-ing on one in particular, just that, err... you know lah, financial constraints ma. What to do?! Haha.
To echo that, I actually start taking pictures of things I come across more often than ever now... Ada lah sikit-sikit symptoms of being a professional blogger every now and then. You know what my dad said the other day when I was busy capturing photos of the food over dinner? He said "Maybe you'd ventured into the wrong business". Haha. Maybe, just maybe, he was right. In a way or another, I think I actually enjoyed blogging & photography more (okay, much more) than I enjoy my current workload! And that's bad news! Top that up with lots and lots of technology glitches that the systems/tools are facing, with the ever-so-underground kinda office politics, with the NATO (no action, talk only) people. Totally not helping.
Okay lah. That's it from me on a random piece, in a random hour (am still in the office actually).
Will post soon!
I hadn't really been putting much emphasis on how my photos should appear professional in any way, 'coz I was only blogging for fun's sake, for memory's sake, for life archive's sake, for my-eyes-only sake (in a way la).
And then, I find myself getting more and more picky on nice shots.
With my occasional handphone camera, and digicam as the only two trusted tools with me, I sometimes look at my photos, and I go "Hmm.. what kinda photo is that, how to put on blog?"
Haha... I know, macam professional blogger, right? Or some professional photographer.
But I assure you, I'm not. In fact I would think there's so much more to learn from taking a very nice shot from my digital camera. What more with an SLR one! So I'm gonna be aiming for a better camera, soon! Been eye-ing on one in particular, just that, err... you know lah, financial constraints ma. What to do?! Haha.
To echo that, I actually start taking pictures of things I come across more often than ever now... Ada lah sikit-sikit symptoms of being a professional blogger every now and then. You know what my dad said the other day when I was busy capturing photos of the food over dinner? He said "Maybe you'd ventured into the wrong business". Haha. Maybe, just maybe, he was right. In a way or another, I think I actually enjoyed blogging & photography more (okay, much more) than I enjoy my current workload! And that's bad news! Top that up with lots and lots of technology glitches that the systems/tools are facing, with the ever-so-underground kinda office politics, with the NATO (no action, talk only) people. Totally not helping.
Okay lah. That's it from me on a random piece, in a random hour (am still in the office actually).
Will post soon!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
My Version of Happily-Ever-After
I know for a fact that Valentine's long over-due.
I, for one, didn't had a good Valentine experience this year. But I'm staying positive that tomorrow will be a better day. Haha. But Valentine's over-rated anyway. It's so commercialised that it's almost a sin if you're attached or coupled and yet not celebrating it. I'm pondering & reflecting on whether this represents a good or bad side of human nature. That we're somehow so in-synched with this whole trend thing, someone started it, commercialised it, and suddenly it's a trend by book of laws that we should all follow. How amazing.
Today, it got me thinking after reading Kim Ong's blog (I have her in one of my blogs list I follow, that's if you're interested). It got me thinking about what defines happily-ever-after in my terms. In this particular entry on Lovemedo, I'm extremely agreeable on what contestant Huay Sean thought. That she believes in destiny and happily-ever-after for her is when you hold hands when you're both 80. Simplistic, yet reflective. The fact that I thought about that too, made me very fond and close to what her voice within resembles about true/real love in this current age.
So here I am, speculating and imagining my own version of happily-ever-after. I've certainly and definitely outgrown the Cinderella version of it. I used to look forward to the big 'W' of my own someday ('W' - Wedding, that is) so much that I imagined myself taking care of the very details with absolute care and attention! But now that I'm in a real relationship for years myself, I think I've tend to eventually realise what calls for a better celebration than the big great wedding itself. It's still a dream as yet, but with less dream-y anticipation note in it. Either I've grown realistic, or I've grown old. You choose. Haha.
Here's what have changed in my years of growing old (or realistic, depending on which u chose earlier). I don't look forward to retirement travel plans to Europe anymore (I think this was somehow affected by the global recession stress that all over the world is experiencing recently), I only want us still holding hands to walk an evening walk in the evening breeze in the taman area that we'll be staying at. I don't look forward to getting married by age 26/27 anymore, I only want to make sure I get a partner that can last me a lifetime. I don't look forward to having surprises for every celebration or occasion (birthdays, anniversaries, valentines, etc) anymore, I only want my partner to remember that I have a habit of drinking hot Milo kosong every morning, and I don't take veges like brinjals & lady's fingers. These would do. Simple and everyday things like these would do.
Now, 60-80 years down the road from today, if I'm still maintaining this blog (right, as if the technology advancement of this age will stay stagnant), I'll share my achievables or non-achievables with you. That's if, I'm still having a vivid memory, and not suffering from Alzheimer already. Haha!
I, for one, didn't had a good Valentine experience this year. But I'm staying positive that tomorrow will be a better day. Haha. But Valentine's over-rated anyway. It's so commercialised that it's almost a sin if you're attached or coupled and yet not celebrating it. I'm pondering & reflecting on whether this represents a good or bad side of human nature. That we're somehow so in-synched with this whole trend thing, someone started it, commercialised it, and suddenly it's a trend by book of laws that we should all follow. How amazing.
Today, it got me thinking after reading Kim Ong's blog (I have her in one of my blogs list I follow, that's if you're interested). It got me thinking about what defines happily-ever-after in my terms. In this particular entry on Lovemedo, I'm extremely agreeable on what contestant Huay Sean thought. That she believes in destiny and happily-ever-after for her is when you hold hands when you're both 80. Simplistic, yet reflective. The fact that I thought about that too, made me very fond and close to what her voice within resembles about true/real love in this current age.
So here I am, speculating and imagining my own version of happily-ever-after. I've certainly and definitely outgrown the Cinderella version of it. I used to look forward to the big 'W' of my own someday ('W' - Wedding, that is) so much that I imagined myself taking care of the very details with absolute care and attention! But now that I'm in a real relationship for years myself, I think I've tend to eventually realise what calls for a better celebration than the big great wedding itself. It's still a dream as yet, but with less dream-y anticipation note in it. Either I've grown realistic, or I've grown old. You choose. Haha.
Here's what have changed in my years of growing old (or realistic, depending on which u chose earlier). I don't look forward to retirement travel plans to Europe anymore (I think this was somehow affected by the global recession stress that all over the world is experiencing recently), I only want us still holding hands to walk an evening walk in the evening breeze in the taman area that we'll be staying at. I don't look forward to getting married by age 26/27 anymore, I only want to make sure I get a partner that can last me a lifetime. I don't look forward to having surprises for every celebration or occasion (birthdays, anniversaries, valentines, etc) anymore, I only want my partner to remember that I have a habit of drinking hot Milo kosong every morning, and I don't take veges like brinjals & lady's fingers. These would do. Simple and everyday things like these would do.
Now, 60-80 years down the road from today, if I'm still maintaining this blog (right, as if the technology advancement of this age will stay stagnant), I'll share my achievables or non-achievables with you. That's if, I'm still having a vivid memory, and not suffering from Alzheimer already. Haha!
Monday, February 23, 2009
A Moment Of Reflection
Today's entry will be a heavy one. It may be outrightly non-sensible, offensive or rude at a certain degree. So if you're a person who easily gets offended (this was not my intention), defensive, or skeptical towards emotional thoughts, you may want to skip this post. I just want to take a moment, to reflect on how my thoughts have changed (or evolved) throughout the years.
I used to think I could do anything for love in a relationship. For love, I won't give up no matter what. I would trust, for love. I would've have faith no matter what, for love. For love, I would be patient & forgiving. For love, I could tolerate the harshest moment. For love, I don't mind sacrificing. Love for me, was pure and shouldn't be of any requirement, and that I would willingly give without asking for return. Love was that incredible for me. Such a huge word, and such greatness. And I believed in all the greatness of love. I used to think that the definition of love was so pure, so genuine, that I couldn't understand how is it that, there are people out there who can fall in and out of love easily, or play with love, feelings & emotions of others. I couldn't understand why is it that, there are people out there who compares, demands, requests or sets a requirement before loving someone. I couldn't understand why is it that, there are people out there who could give plenty of petty excuses to break up with their partners, and not choose to tolerate and compromise. I used to think these people have not really felt real love before, that they were being materialistic, immature, and that love was shallow. But now I think, it might just be that they've given up on finding that pure love that I've talked about, thinking that, love like that don't possibly exist, and probably thinking they will never earn a chance to be granted a love that pure.
I thought I was a person who is always very 伟大 in love, very generous. I think I was wrong. I think I've thought wrong. I'm selfish too. I weigh my love too. I compare my love too. Who am I to judge others now? I am not as forgiving as I thought. I am not as considerate as I thought. And I demand for my partner to give me unconditional, undivided, boundary-less sort of love, attention and care. When he doesn't, it bothers me and I do mind, a great deal. Who am I, then, to say that I know what love is? I don't deserve to think that my love is all that great.
I had come across this scenario, in John Gray's Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, which really stood out to me. John's wife, Bonnie, was in pain, torn & exhausted after delivery of their daughter. She hasn't got rest for days. And one day when John's got a rough day at work, he came home to the complaints of his wife, saying she was in pain, but nobody cared, and that she felt deserted & alone. To this, John was on rage, and they exchanged a few harsh words, and John was about to storm out of the house when Bonnie said, "Stop. Please don't leave. This is when I need you the most. I'm in pain. I haven't sleep in days. Please listen to me". As John stopped to listen to his wife, she continued "John Gray, you're a fair-weather friend! As long as I'm sweet, loving Bonnie, you are here for me, but as soon as I'm not, you walk right out the door". With tears in her eyes, she continued, "Right now, I'm in pain. I have nothing to give, this is when I need you most. Please come over here and hold me. You don't have to say anything. I just need to feel your arms around me. Please don't go". He walked over and silently held her. She wept in his arms, and after a few minutes, she thanked him for not leaving. She told him that she just needed to feel him holding her. And at that moment, he realised the real meaning of love - unconditional love. He realised what she said was right, that he was a fair weathered friend. As long as she's happy and nice, he loved back. But if she was unhappy or upset, then he would feel blamed, and then argued, and distanced himself.
It struck me from this, that many a times, I think I'm like John himself, being a fair weathered friend. I love in return when the person is nice, and chose to distant away when the person's angry or upset, and was being harsh. I guess then, my love is conditional after all.
I used to think I could do anything for love in a relationship. For love, I won't give up no matter what. I would trust, for love. I would've have faith no matter what, for love. For love, I would be patient & forgiving. For love, I could tolerate the harshest moment. For love, I don't mind sacrificing. Love for me, was pure and shouldn't be of any requirement, and that I would willingly give without asking for return. Love was that incredible for me. Such a huge word, and such greatness. And I believed in all the greatness of love. I used to think that the definition of love was so pure, so genuine, that I couldn't understand how is it that, there are people out there who can fall in and out of love easily, or play with love, feelings & emotions of others. I couldn't understand why is it that, there are people out there who compares, demands, requests or sets a requirement before loving someone. I couldn't understand why is it that, there are people out there who could give plenty of petty excuses to break up with their partners, and not choose to tolerate and compromise. I used to think these people have not really felt real love before, that they were being materialistic, immature, and that love was shallow. But now I think, it might just be that they've given up on finding that pure love that I've talked about, thinking that, love like that don't possibly exist, and probably thinking they will never earn a chance to be granted a love that pure.
I thought I was a person who is always very 伟大 in love, very generous. I think I was wrong. I think I've thought wrong. I'm selfish too. I weigh my love too. I compare my love too. Who am I to judge others now? I am not as forgiving as I thought. I am not as considerate as I thought. And I demand for my partner to give me unconditional, undivided, boundary-less sort of love, attention and care. When he doesn't, it bothers me and I do mind, a great deal. Who am I, then, to say that I know what love is? I don't deserve to think that my love is all that great.
I had come across this scenario, in John Gray's Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, which really stood out to me. John's wife, Bonnie, was in pain, torn & exhausted after delivery of their daughter. She hasn't got rest for days. And one day when John's got a rough day at work, he came home to the complaints of his wife, saying she was in pain, but nobody cared, and that she felt deserted & alone. To this, John was on rage, and they exchanged a few harsh words, and John was about to storm out of the house when Bonnie said, "Stop. Please don't leave. This is when I need you the most. I'm in pain. I haven't sleep in days. Please listen to me". As John stopped to listen to his wife, she continued "John Gray, you're a fair-weather friend! As long as I'm sweet, loving Bonnie, you are here for me, but as soon as I'm not, you walk right out the door". With tears in her eyes, she continued, "Right now, I'm in pain. I have nothing to give, this is when I need you most. Please come over here and hold me. You don't have to say anything. I just need to feel your arms around me. Please don't go". He walked over and silently held her. She wept in his arms, and after a few minutes, she thanked him for not leaving. She told him that she just needed to feel him holding her. And at that moment, he realised the real meaning of love - unconditional love. He realised what she said was right, that he was a fair weathered friend. As long as she's happy and nice, he loved back. But if she was unhappy or upset, then he would feel blamed, and then argued, and distanced himself.
It struck me from this, that many a times, I think I'm like John himself, being a fair weathered friend. I love in return when the person is nice, and chose to distant away when the person's angry or upset, and was being harsh. I guess then, my love is conditional after all.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The Big Things In Life
Here's the thing. I think I've definitely underestimated things in a lot of ways.
Things I didn't think I could do before, but I can now. I've underestimated my own capabilities & strength. I thought I'm an ordinary person, doing ordinary things, in an ordinary life. But now I know that I must've been extraordinary at some point of my life. (I hear 'ya say "Self praise is no praise"?) Haha. But well, a little ego boost is good every now and then. Here's my benchmarking - I'd sometimes do an odd check thinking to myself, "If I were to die someday, what kind of marks/footprints/memories would I have left to the people around me?" and if I'd feel comfortable with the answer, then I'd guess it's a good sign.
I've also underestimated the power of time. How when people say "Time will tell", "Time will heal" or that "Time is the best medicine". Now I know. Embarking on a time machine, and see myself sail through challenges & develop in between different stages of life - now that's cool.
Now, destiny. What can I say about fate, about destiny? I wouldn't think I've actually challenged and underestimated fate or destiny at any point throughout my entire 25 years of life (yes I know, 25 is not too big a number to be talking about things like that). Some people choose to think they control their own fate, that destiny is non-existent. I choose to think it's a half-half kind of thing. Your destiny's probably already written in a way, but you can choose how you handle things when they do happen, so it's not fated that you should despair (the controllable) when you lose something (the uncontrollable).
Wealth. When I was younger, I'd always strongly believe, emotional wealth is of far greater importance than financial wealth. Now that I've grown, I would have to say my thoughts have changed a little. I still strongly believe in the phrase that "Money can't buy you happiness", but I do know now that in the realistic world that everyone is faced with now, I have to now change the latter to "Money can't buy you happiness, but it definitely can buy you a lot of things okay, don't play-play". But there's still a vague line of striking balance between the two, though. That's why there are people who do get carried away and choose to go the materialistic way.
Alright then, that's enough reflection and thoughts for the day.
I'm having an off-day tomorrow, yippie! It's about time I have a break.
Have a great weekeend!
By the way, here's a song that I haven't heard for a long, long, long time. It was one of the songs in the soundtrack of Ally McBeal, the series. I've almost forgotten how I used to love this song. This is by Vonda Shepard - "Neighbourhood". Trust me, she's got a lot of very nice songs, should check it out! Couldn't find the offial MV, but enjoy this song!
Things I didn't think I could do before, but I can now. I've underestimated my own capabilities & strength. I thought I'm an ordinary person, doing ordinary things, in an ordinary life. But now I know that I must've been extraordinary at some point of my life. (I hear 'ya say "Self praise is no praise"?) Haha. But well, a little ego boost is good every now and then. Here's my benchmarking - I'd sometimes do an odd check thinking to myself, "If I were to die someday, what kind of marks/footprints/memories would I have left to the people around me?" and if I'd feel comfortable with the answer, then I'd guess it's a good sign.
I've also underestimated the power of time. How when people say "Time will tell", "Time will heal" or that "Time is the best medicine". Now I know. Embarking on a time machine, and see myself sail through challenges & develop in between different stages of life - now that's cool.
Now, destiny. What can I say about fate, about destiny? I wouldn't think I've actually challenged and underestimated fate or destiny at any point throughout my entire 25 years of life (yes I know, 25 is not too big a number to be talking about things like that). Some people choose to think they control their own fate, that destiny is non-existent. I choose to think it's a half-half kind of thing. Your destiny's probably already written in a way, but you can choose how you handle things when they do happen, so it's not fated that you should despair (the controllable) when you lose something (the uncontrollable).
Wealth. When I was younger, I'd always strongly believe, emotional wealth is of far greater importance than financial wealth. Now that I've grown, I would have to say my thoughts have changed a little. I still strongly believe in the phrase that "Money can't buy you happiness", but I do know now that in the realistic world that everyone is faced with now, I have to now change the latter to "Money can't buy you happiness, but it definitely can buy you a lot of things okay, don't play-play". But there's still a vague line of striking balance between the two, though. That's why there are people who do get carried away and choose to go the materialistic way.
Alright then, that's enough reflection and thoughts for the day.
I'm having an off-day tomorrow, yippie! It's about time I have a break.
Have a great weekeend!
By the way, here's a song that I haven't heard for a long, long, long time. It was one of the songs in the soundtrack of Ally McBeal, the series. I've almost forgotten how I used to love this song. This is by Vonda Shepard - "Neighbourhood". Trust me, she's got a lot of very nice songs, should check it out! Couldn't find the offial MV, but enjoy this song!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Something I Found On Love II
I'd also came across this string of jokes that are particularly light & not too mushy in this season of love. It's a really good one. :D
What Valentine ???
1. Skippy heartbeat when you think of him/her.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Tachycardia which may lead to ventricularfibrillation and Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack).
2. Restless trembling of hands, feet and other body parts.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Parkinson's Disease
3. Constant smiling.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Bell's Palsy
4. Absent mindedness, forgetfulness, inability to focus on tasks at work or at home.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
5. Frequent or constant sexual arousal.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Nymphomania
6. Weakening of knees and bursts of energy when he/she calls or comes over.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Multiple Sclerosis
7. Inability to stop thinking about him/her.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
8. Bruising on neck, breasts and other tender areas.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Leukemia
9. Insomnia.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
10. Feeling that you can smell/hear/feel him or her when not in his/her presence.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Schizophrenia
What Valentine ???
1. Skippy heartbeat when you think of him/her.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Tachycardia which may lead to ventricularfibrillation and Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack).
2. Restless trembling of hands, feet and other body parts.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Parkinson's Disease
3. Constant smiling.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Bell's Palsy
4. Absent mindedness, forgetfulness, inability to focus on tasks at work or at home.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
5. Frequent or constant sexual arousal.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Nymphomania
6. Weakening of knees and bursts of energy when he/she calls or comes over.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Multiple Sclerosis
7. Inability to stop thinking about him/her.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
8. Bruising on neck, breasts and other tender areas.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Leukemia
9. Insomnia.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
10. Feeling that you can smell/hear/feel him or her when not in his/her presence.
You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Schizophrenia
Something I Found On Love
Here's something I found while reading TheStar online this morning. It should be one of those articles that's reflective during this season of love - Valentine's. Here goes :
Love and pride go together but can be disastrous
SIGHTS & SOUNDS By XANDRIA OOI
OVER the past year, I have learned a thing or two about love. I find the power of love fascinating and contradictory at the same time.
Besides being able to turn a perfectly normal person into a giddy, beaming creature; love also has the power to unhinge the most rational of us.
If you’ve ever been in love, you might agree that love can make us a little insane at times.
An intelligent, successful person would cry, beg and flood their partner’s mailbox with a dozen incoherent messages, all because of love. In the face of love, any pride that we might have gets flushed down the drain.
There also are instances where the opposite is true.
I find that love and pride are so closely intertwined that the mere movement towards one or the other can change the outcome of an disagreement between couples.
Anger and pride are also never far from each other. It is anger that spurs us to make the most hurtful remarks and it is pride that stills our tongue when we want to say we’re sorry.
Anger makes us forget ourselves and gives us a temporary sense of power. We say things we don’t mean and when we want to run after the one we love, it is our pride that keeps us rooted to the ground.
No one is perfect and it is our battle with pride and anger that makes up human love. We either allow anger and pride to take over or we can try very hard to let love do the talking.
After all, pride, anger and regret will not keep us warm at night.
Love is also a very strange notion. We can promise our partner the earth and the sky, whisk them away on luxurious holidays and feel happier when we hear their voice on the telephone; yet we can be rude to them, careless with their feelings and take them for granted.
You wouldn’t put as much effort into a friendship and you also wouldn’t abuse it; yet when it comes to relationships, you could be operating on both ends of the scale at the same time.
It doesn’t take one long to figure out that we are at our most vulnerable when we are in love. Even the strongest and meanest have been known to be defeated by it.
Love may have the power to heal, but it also certainly has the power to break someone and turn them into a shadow of their former self.
I have found that showing our love is not just giving what comes naturally to us when we are happy.
It is always easy to love someone when we’re in a good mood but when things aren’t so peachy it can be such a struggle to remember how to show that love.
Although I am a naturally affectionate person, I find myself behaving more like Mr Hyde than Dr Jekyll when angry or upset; ashamed as I am to admit.
“Never make a decision when you’re angry” is a motto that I’m glad my boyfriend practices and has constantly reminded me to stand by.
Falling in love is easy but no one seems to advertise the fact that it isn’t as simple to sustain that wondrous feeling.
The thing is, we can have the best education from the most prestigious university, but when it comes to the matters of the heart, we have no way of preparing for it.
There is no other way to understand love than to learn about it the hard way and hope that our heart, and the hearts of those who love us, survive the ride.
I don’t find Valentine’s Day overrated as I see it as an anniversary of love.
After an entire year of learning about love and being a better person because of it, wouldn’t you want to celebrate too?
Love and pride go together but can be disastrous
SIGHTS & SOUNDS By XANDRIA OOI
OVER the past year, I have learned a thing or two about love. I find the power of love fascinating and contradictory at the same time.
Besides being able to turn a perfectly normal person into a giddy, beaming creature; love also has the power to unhinge the most rational of us.
If you’ve ever been in love, you might agree that love can make us a little insane at times.
An intelligent, successful person would cry, beg and flood their partner’s mailbox with a dozen incoherent messages, all because of love. In the face of love, any pride that we might have gets flushed down the drain.
There also are instances where the opposite is true.
I find that love and pride are so closely intertwined that the mere movement towards one or the other can change the outcome of an disagreement between couples.
Anger and pride are also never far from each other. It is anger that spurs us to make the most hurtful remarks and it is pride that stills our tongue when we want to say we’re sorry.
Anger makes us forget ourselves and gives us a temporary sense of power. We say things we don’t mean and when we want to run after the one we love, it is our pride that keeps us rooted to the ground.
No one is perfect and it is our battle with pride and anger that makes up human love. We either allow anger and pride to take over or we can try very hard to let love do the talking.
After all, pride, anger and regret will not keep us warm at night.
Love is also a very strange notion. We can promise our partner the earth and the sky, whisk them away on luxurious holidays and feel happier when we hear their voice on the telephone; yet we can be rude to them, careless with their feelings and take them for granted.
You wouldn’t put as much effort into a friendship and you also wouldn’t abuse it; yet when it comes to relationships, you could be operating on both ends of the scale at the same time.
It doesn’t take one long to figure out that we are at our most vulnerable when we are in love. Even the strongest and meanest have been known to be defeated by it.
Love may have the power to heal, but it also certainly has the power to break someone and turn them into a shadow of their former self.
I have found that showing our love is not just giving what comes naturally to us when we are happy.
It is always easy to love someone when we’re in a good mood but when things aren’t so peachy it can be such a struggle to remember how to show that love.
Although I am a naturally affectionate person, I find myself behaving more like Mr Hyde than Dr Jekyll when angry or upset; ashamed as I am to admit.
“Never make a decision when you’re angry” is a motto that I’m glad my boyfriend practices and has constantly reminded me to stand by.
Falling in love is easy but no one seems to advertise the fact that it isn’t as simple to sustain that wondrous feeling.
The thing is, we can have the best education from the most prestigious university, but when it comes to the matters of the heart, we have no way of preparing for it.
There is no other way to understand love than to learn about it the hard way and hope that our heart, and the hearts of those who love us, survive the ride.
I don’t find Valentine’s Day overrated as I see it as an anniversary of love.
After an entire year of learning about love and being a better person because of it, wouldn’t you want to celebrate too?
Sunday, February 15, 2009
A New Meaning
Today,
I've found a new meaning to true friendship,
I've also found a new meaning to being modest.
I've found that life isn't the most perfect journey,
But you learn most during a hardship.
I've found that it's okay to fail or make mistakes,
And that it's okay to forgive myself.
I've found a new meaning to putting others above myself,
I've also found a new meaning to being kind.
I've found a new meaning to taking things for granted,
I've also found a new meaning to taking things easy.
I've found a new meaning to the saying 'life is beyond our control',
And to the saying 'fate is not in our hands'.
I've found that discovering myself is a true inspiration,
To be given a chance to do so is a blessing.
I've found a new meaning to true friendship,
I've also found a new meaning to being modest.
I've found that life isn't the most perfect journey,
But you learn most during a hardship.
I've found that it's okay to fail or make mistakes,
And that it's okay to forgive myself.
I've found a new meaning to putting others above myself,
I've also found a new meaning to being kind.
I've found a new meaning to taking things for granted,
I've also found a new meaning to taking things easy.
I've found a new meaning to the saying 'life is beyond our control',
And to the saying 'fate is not in our hands'.
I've found that discovering myself is a true inspiration,
To be given a chance to do so is a blessing.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Love Is Not A Fairytale
It's dawning on me that a relationship takes a great deal of courage and effort to work out. I've heard this piece of advice often enough, and I've also agreed often enough. But the effect of it has never been felt so strongly upon, until this moment. It didn't come as a smack on the face, I'm quite sure. And I'd always known the equation consciously. But it was too real an effect to not feel anything. And I know I couldn't ignore it, it's something I had to swallow.
I adored our love, really. Love that wasn't selfish, which was why it made us both tired to a certaint extent, for all the giving. It's a dramatic claim now that I'd think about it, really. Giving should come willingly, unreluctantly, right from the heart, without requirement, without pre-requisites, and without asking for something in return. Only does it then qualify being sincere & genuine. At least that's what most believe. But I guess we're all human, and we're humane enough to feel short-changed at some point of time.
It's funny how people say, love will pull you through all challenges, through thick and thin. I find that very vague sometimes. Because love itself, calls for many definitions and interpretations in the eyes of different individuals. And love alone, isn't good enough to keep a relationship sustainable. It has to come with more than that - patience, tolerance, persistence, compromising, understanding, maturity, consistency, the right mentality, the right timing.
I don't know how things will eventually turn out to be. But I do know that I want us both to be happy, however the outcome may be.
I adored our love, really. Love that wasn't selfish, which was why it made us both tired to a certaint extent, for all the giving. It's a dramatic claim now that I'd think about it, really. Giving should come willingly, unreluctantly, right from the heart, without requirement, without pre-requisites, and without asking for something in return. Only does it then qualify being sincere & genuine. At least that's what most believe. But I guess we're all human, and we're humane enough to feel short-changed at some point of time.
It's funny how people say, love will pull you through all challenges, through thick and thin. I find that very vague sometimes. Because love itself, calls for many definitions and interpretations in the eyes of different individuals. And love alone, isn't good enough to keep a relationship sustainable. It has to come with more than that - patience, tolerance, persistence, compromising, understanding, maturity, consistency, the right mentality, the right timing.
I don't know how things will eventually turn out to be. But I do know that I want us both to be happy, however the outcome may be.
" Love is patient, love is kind,
Love knows neither envy nor jealousy,
Love is not forward and self-assertive,
Nor is it boastful and conceited...
Love is 'til death do us part...
Love, in my own words, is not a fairytale... "
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Being a Half-Banana
On my way home today, in the monorail, I stood in front of two gals. One of them chinese, quite tomboy-ish, and another, a mat salleh (a caucasian). What stood out was that, both of them were conversing in mandarin, and man, they were not only conversing in mandarin, those were China accented mandarin! I'm impressed. There you have it, a caucasian gal, with her bluish eyes, blonde hair, fairly freckled-face, speaking my supposingly native language, because, by all means traditional, I rarely come across such scenarios here in KL. Well, maybe it's a common trend in China, in bigger city places like Beijing, or Shanghai, where quite a large number of expatriats live. For all you know, they not only speak mandarin, they also read and write perfect chinese! And that calls for a session of pressure to people who's as half-banana as I am. Hmm... I'm already starting to feel ashamed of myself [*pout*].
** Disclaimer
1. The Malaysian-ised term 'banana' refers to a chinese who doesn’t speak, read and write chinese.
2. A half-banana (or semi-banana), in my terms, speaks chinese, but doesn't write or read the language.
** Disclaimer
1. The Malaysian-ised term 'banana' refers to a chinese who doesn’t speak, read and write chinese.
2. A half-banana (or semi-banana), in my terms, speaks chinese, but doesn't write or read the language.
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Joyous and Solemn Occasion
Over the past week, I've attended two weddings, and a funeral.
I've seen how two lovely couples come together and devote their lives to each other, and I've seen how daunting it can be to have lost someone dear to you.
I've partied and celebrated together, in the name of love, with the couples starting new journeys of their lives together; I've also mourned together, in the name of love, with family and friends at the sudden loss.
And all of these, had made me thought of the very few things that has been so clichéd-ly said over and over again, yet have always been taken granted for.
Life could be short. We really wouldn't know.
I've never felt this deeply that if one day I were to die, I would want to have lived my life meaningfully. Age really is just a number. Whoever could guarantee you that "As long as you stay healthy, do your part in the community, play all the rules safely, and you'll live up to a hundred years old", is lying. Even God doesn't promise you that. What we can do, is to make every living day count. So whenever we have the urge to think "We'll always have tomorrow to do that", we really wouldn't know if we'll live up 'til tomorrow, would we?
After the one week throughout, I'm even more reminded to treasure people who have closely surrounded me throughout my lifetime. And I've never felt this grateful for even the simplest things and slightest gestures in my everyday life. I hope I'll carry this mindset with me for the longest time!
I've seen how two lovely couples come together and devote their lives to each other, and I've seen how daunting it can be to have lost someone dear to you.
I've partied and celebrated together, in the name of love, with the couples starting new journeys of their lives together; I've also mourned together, in the name of love, with family and friends at the sudden loss.
And all of these, had made me thought of the very few things that has been so clichéd-ly said over and over again, yet have always been taken granted for.
Life could be short. We really wouldn't know.
I've never felt this deeply that if one day I were to die, I would want to have lived my life meaningfully. Age really is just a number. Whoever could guarantee you that "As long as you stay healthy, do your part in the community, play all the rules safely, and you'll live up to a hundred years old", is lying. Even God doesn't promise you that. What we can do, is to make every living day count. So whenever we have the urge to think "We'll always have tomorrow to do that", we really wouldn't know if we'll live up 'til tomorrow, would we?
After the one week throughout, I'm even more reminded to treasure people who have closely surrounded me throughout my lifetime. And I've never felt this grateful for even the simplest things and slightest gestures in my everyday life. I hope I'll carry this mindset with me for the longest time!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Saying Thank You & You're Welcome
In our world (working world), we are taught of two skills to groom on. First being, technical skills (in my case, Microsoft Excel, Cognos Queries, and various systems & databases). Second being, soft skills (in my case, logic, pro-activity, learning to increase visibility & leveraging good relationships with the other teammembers).
One simple soft skill I've picked up from my job/career is learning (or should I say revising) what we've been taught from our younger days, by our parents, by our teachers - to learn how to say 'Thank You' & 'You're Welcome' (and graciously mean them, off course).
Rewinding to my younger days, I recall the occasional little treats or gifts from an outstation uncle or aunty on a holiday visit, my parents have been instilling "Girl, you should say thank you ok, don't be impolite". I would nod my head and obey. So at every chance that was given to me, I proudly (proud because, I thought I was being the most obedient and clever daughter any parent could have, haha) say 'Thank You Uncle", "Thank You Aunty".
Now, fast forward to the now I'm in. Saying "Thank You" means so much more than just that! My 'Thank You's now are actually more of tokens of appreciation. So yes, I've now learnt that thanking someone should not come to be seen just as polite or good manners, but a show of heartfelt gratitude!
Here's another thing though. Learning the true meaning of Thank You was not all. I actually did learn how to say 'You're Welcome' for the reason aside from courtesy alone. I've learnt that in the working world, many a times, sweeping the value you bring under the carpet isn't such a smart thing to do either. So, do make yourself seen for the contributions and effort you've put in, and be generous with 'You're Welcome' instead of smiling sheepishly after receiving a 'Thank You'!
One simple soft skill I've picked up from my job/career is learning (or should I say revising) what we've been taught from our younger days, by our parents, by our teachers - to learn how to say 'Thank You' & 'You're Welcome' (and graciously mean them, off course).
Rewinding to my younger days, I recall the occasional little treats or gifts from an outstation uncle or aunty on a holiday visit, my parents have been instilling "Girl, you should say thank you ok, don't be impolite". I would nod my head and obey. So at every chance that was given to me, I proudly (proud because, I thought I was being the most obedient and clever daughter any parent could have, haha) say 'Thank You Uncle", "Thank You Aunty".
Now, fast forward to the now I'm in. Saying "Thank You" means so much more than just that! My 'Thank You's now are actually more of tokens of appreciation. So yes, I've now learnt that thanking someone should not come to be seen just as polite or good manners, but a show of heartfelt gratitude!
Here's another thing though. Learning the true meaning of Thank You was not all. I actually did learn how to say 'You're Welcome' for the reason aside from courtesy alone. I've learnt that in the working world, many a times, sweeping the value you bring under the carpet isn't such a smart thing to do either. So, do make yourself seen for the contributions and effort you've put in, and be generous with 'You're Welcome' instead of smiling sheepishly after receiving a 'Thank You'!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Never Deny Yourself Value
One thing you should never do to yourself is to deny yourself value.
People can throw sarcasm at you, judge you, criticise you, make you feel shitty... and still, you should never feel shitty about yourself. Off course, you should never ignore constructive feedbacks. They allow us to continuously re-evaluate ourselves. And self-evaluation is vital for us to grow (*read: to grow mentally, emotionally, intellectually, etc. etc... in short, to grow wiser). You must've sensed the familiarity of the rationale. It's in the psychological theories, teachers teach you in school, parents teach you from young, heck, they even have whole shelves in mega bookstores in the 'Motivation' or 'Self-Help' sections dedicated to books that tell you to value yourself.
So, why this blog, you may ask. Frankly, I don't know. [By now, you must be thinking, "what a confused soul"]. I want to stress that, I'm not confused. I'm just curious. Here's a thought. At what level of criticsm do you usually deem healthy? How many shots of those do you deem constructive? How many jabs are of the 'moderate' dosage - the healthy balance? Now, I'm quite sure, there must be different benchmarks as to how each and everyone of you determine the balance point. As for me, for as long as I know I don't betray my values I was brought up with, instilled and educated with, then I'm not denying myself value. Hope all of you out there will discover the confidence to stand up for your self-value!
People can throw sarcasm at you, judge you, criticise you, make you feel shitty... and still, you should never feel shitty about yourself. Off course, you should never ignore constructive feedbacks. They allow us to continuously re-evaluate ourselves. And self-evaluation is vital for us to grow (*read: to grow mentally, emotionally, intellectually, etc. etc... in short, to grow wiser). You must've sensed the familiarity of the rationale. It's in the psychological theories, teachers teach you in school, parents teach you from young, heck, they even have whole shelves in mega bookstores in the 'Motivation' or 'Self-Help' sections dedicated to books that tell you to value yourself.
So, why this blog, you may ask. Frankly, I don't know. [By now, you must be thinking, "what a confused soul"]. I want to stress that, I'm not confused. I'm just curious. Here's a thought. At what level of criticsm do you usually deem healthy? How many shots of those do you deem constructive? How many jabs are of the 'moderate' dosage - the healthy balance? Now, I'm quite sure, there must be different benchmarks as to how each and everyone of you determine the balance point. As for me, for as long as I know I don't betray my values I was brought up with, instilled and educated with, then I'm not denying myself value. Hope all of you out there will discover the confidence to stand up for your self-value!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams
I've ecently mentioned in my previous post about Randy Pausch's Last Lecture. For those of you who are interested to view his presentation, here it is.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Reality Check
Okay, this enlightenment may seem a little 'deep' for a second entry. But I did mention, I just want to capture my thoughts (so that I can look back and see how much I've grown down the years. Blah, haha).
Anyway, a close friend of mine sent me this yesterday : http://shinscancerblog.blogspot.com/. I've since been reading a random selection of entries from Shin's blog (even in the office, during alternate work hours, mind you). See, it's one wrong choice to be in the 'reflection' mode while you're at work. Why? Because... I do get carried away with emotions, sometimes. Okay okay, most of the times. And then, she (my close friend) has to recommend this other good book to read (which also allow plenty of room for reflection mode). You may check it out here, it's called The Last Lecture by the late Randy Pausch : http://www.thelastlecture.com/.
One of the thoughts that stood out to me was, how will I face 'death'? As in, if it happens to someone I know, or someone dear to me. Recently, a colleague of mine lost her dad, he was only 57 or 58 of years. Looking at her handling so well at the services, made me think, if something like that were to happen to me (touch-wood), I wondered if I could handle it as well as she did. I'm 24 this year, and I honestly think, when it comes to so many matters in life, I'm still so much like a kid! So this is reality check #1. Hence, resolution for #1 would be, start being a grown-up! Reality check #2 would be, I've been working for 2 years now, and I seriously save close to nothing. And to claim that I'm a Finance Degree holder is a total shame, looking at how 'financially' inefficient I am! Hence, resolution for #2 would be, I have got to start implementing strict (yes, strict) control over my spending behaviors. Reality check #3 would be, asking myself "What are the key milestone achievements in my 24 years of life?", and my answer to that, "Hmmm....". Hence, resolution for #3 would be, start getting out of comfort zone to make way for some really effective change!
With that, I'm ending my second post here with this particular newcomer artiste I like who sings really well (with good guitarist skills too!). Do check out his other songs when you've got the luxury of free-time. :-)
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