Lao Sip Kong by Gi Meng Hock.

looking for an answer and Happy New Year

2012-01-02T20:12:00.000+08:00

It was a shock to have found out that some of us went for a Batam trip during the weekend. The shock was not from the fact that I wasn't invited but that I didn't even know that there was such a trip. Ignorant me even smsed, asking what the plan was for the new year, across the waters to Batam. This propelled me to do some soul searching and my mind raced through the memories of the past year to find that familiar faces have been largely absent, with frequencies of meetings dwindling.

I've grown distant to the group over the past months to the point that Kel would sometimes ask me why we haven't been meeting up with my friends. My answers were always that we haven't been invited. And now I sit here pondering as to why the case is such.

Indeed, wkends spent together with the clique have been scant ever since I've been with Kel but she has always been receptive to the idea of hanging out together with the clique so the cause couldn't be her (non-existent) reluctance. Yet, we have not been invited to any gatherings or hang out sessions except for major events such as the Christmas dinner. I treasure the friendship with the clique as everyone here numbers the longest friends I have and thus, please enlighten me as to why I/we have been excluded from the gatherings.

Happy New Year and have a good year ahead with well wishes

Kumar to find a suitable and sustainable job with good prospects.
Daniel to progress in career (in current or to hunt for a better) and relationship with partner and god.
Alvin to progress in career and relationship with god and get more opportunities of exciting experiences overseas.
Amanda for success in wedding and married life, to be a good wife and soon to be mother (or should we expect a few years of honeymoon?)
Ah Du and Mel to excel in studies and cherish the schooling days together
Psycho to excel in studies and subsequent career, make lots of money to loan me for housing cash upfront and cherish a good mate.
Terence to find a good deal for engagement ring and plow through all obstacles in career and love
Mendi to have a breakthrough in maturity, academics and love
Angheng to finish his studies and grow in love and come back to us
Benny to turn over a new leaf (Ji Hyun is waiting)
He Quan to become Yan Fei or casino supervisor

Did I miss out anyone?

G2000 and Challenger Member

2011-11-29T22:50:00.001+08:00

Hi Guys,

Its been a long time since Ive posted something here. In a blink of an eye, it is that time of the year again for celebration! In light of a rather kt-filled year for many, it is time to cast the 2011 past troubles away and get ready to usher in a spanking new year filled with fresh new hope,
aspirations and plenty to look forward to!

Since I’m back, I shall take the liberty to organize this year’s customary Christmas dinner. Since AH will potentially be busy, I’m thinking there will not be someone’s house available for a potluck. Hence, the best alternative is A STEADY CHRISTMAS BUFFET DINNER at an awesome place with an awesome ambience!

Nothing like a round table sit down formal dinner with free flow of good food. Yes I understand the stigma behind buffets, order food cannot finish, over order, eat too full wanna vomit etc. But in com parison to normal dinners, we cannot sit long long talk nonsense till very late. I will personally take charge and full responsibility of the ordering this time.

And remember, its KUKU JI PAI! Once a year nia!

So we have 3 alternatives. A cheaper buffet with gift exchange, a more expensive one without the gift exchange or an expensive one with the gift exchange.

I have been looking at hotel ones and it was a waste I just missed an Amara hotel one at $43 nett instead of the usual price of $60+. So I will appreciate if you guys will help keep a lookout for such deals on popular sites like deal or groupon which I’m sure you are more familiar with than me. In the mean time, there is a hotpot deal on deal.sg at $23 nett at Chinatown which is one of the cheaper but not ideal option. Of course I would personally prefer a hotel or tung lok kind of place, although sakura is also fine by me. I’m open to all suggestions.

Since 23, 24, 25 are weekends and 26 (MONDAY) is a PH, do you guys prefer a weekday on the 27th (Tuesday) since I’m assuming most of us wont be working coz of the leave clearing? Alternatively, 23 or 26 are my next best options coz there won’t be work the next day.

Meanwhile, can you guys give some suggestions and immediately book for maybe 10 ppl? This is because we are very late liao so instead of deciding, we all go ahead and book respective restaurants we think are steadip before we eliminate afterwards.

Spouses, kips, good frens, fiancés and whoever is cordially invited. All are welcome in accordance to the Christmas spirit!

Really hope that everyone will try their best to make it since its really a long while since everyone got together and had a good meal in the midst of our respective busy lives. Its time to take a breather and pause to reflect on 2011 and look forward to 2012!

God Bless!

(By the way, I just became a G2000 and Challenger Member, so if you guys wanna get anything at all from G2000 or Challenger for yourself or friends just let me know, I can get a quite a good discount. Steady!)

Alvin

Soccer, anyone?

2011-10-02T22:36:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

I have since given up on the idea of the soccer venture. Although I have big plans for it, but based on what Kumar said, I’ve decided to give up. It is something I do agree with.

Today I made a mistake on organising of our soccer session. Apparently I organised the session but I never booked. However that is beside the point, the fact is out of the 15 person that went, 6 were MQ’s clique, David had 4 friends there and there is Jason and Jerry (If you do not know any of this people, you will have missed out a lot). Our clique members only left Teh, Benny and I. I do realise we have already become the fringe people.
I guess everyone (those that used to come in the hey days) do have the same sentiments as me. “The fun is gone. Why are we still coming?” I have told my frustrations to some of the regular whom are going now and some of them have initiated to organise for the long term.

I think it is time to pass the baton to others already. What do you think?

If any of you disagree with what I said, I am telling you now that our soccer sessions for the next 3 weeks are on:

9th Oct 2011, 23 Oct 2011, 30 Oct 2011.

Do come if you can.

I do know some of you have other commitments and some of you are on lengthy layoffs and some of you are not in Singapore, but you can do your part in urging those that can come.

The dates are all here and no worries, I’ll inform everyone to read this post.

Do write down your 2 cent worth if possible. You can even state when are you coming in the comments.

Regards,
Blackburn

Let's bring back the fun!

2011-09-29T23:30:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

It’s been a long time since I write anything on this blog. Anyway here I am again. Will like to get your comments of what I am proposing, esp those within GMH community.

What I am proposing is definitely for personal gains. But its also something I have been thinking for a long long time.I have known GMH through our Sunday soccer. However its hard to imagine the amount of GMH members coming every week for soccer. It seems to be Teh, Benny and I. Nevertheless, I always feel that every now and then, one of you will turn up. I felt really fun playing the last time round before Alvin left for Spain. What about you?

So I feel that its really important to keep this going and going cause one of these days the fun will be back. Its like what Benny said one of those weeks, “Its never really the game that get him coming but the company.”

Now on the “personal gain” part. I like to propose to take on the role of organising soccer for good but getting those that came to pay more. Its sort of paying a premium for a service. I am looking at a price of $4.

I also have thoughts of coming up with a facebook acc for the Sunday soccer people (including those outside GMH) to facilitate everyone with the upcoming activities on the Sunday soccer activity. I have no idea what will be the outcome. And looking at the attitude of those that came (playing with a “ai mai ai mai” attitude), it may well backfire.

But well, I hope I can still say “there is always you!”

Regards,Blackburn

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LULULU!!

2011-03-30T22:42:00.005+08:00

FMUS2 and FMUS1

LULULU

benny, this pic not nice meh?

wedding photo of the year=)

zi cha

double-boiled soup!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUU! Mai siann..

How many GMH members does it take to remove 2+7 candles?

Benny snatched away the most choc fudge!!

Benny, i think this pic quite well taken also leh..

Needs more practice

Thanks for the treat lulu! ehh... $30 for the cake.. blkq

*amendi*

an hour away, worlds apart

2011-03-16T20:46:00.006+08:00

I spent the entire day today in a village in Batam, conducting interviews on behalf of a charity NGO that builds houses for slum-dwellers and homeless families in Batam. We're doing an impact assessment of their efforts.

For a city boy to go into a village is no small thing.

What strikes you first is the lack of roads. Yes, the ride in was bumpy, but everywhere you step is dirt and mud. The second thing is the number of livestock running around and that faint smell of waste/defecation everywhere. But what really gets you is the hospitality of the people.

All I had was a translator attached to me and I was going house to house asking about how having a house affected the lives of these people. Yet, I was offered shy smiles, handshakes followed by a touch of the heart, glasses of water (which I dared not drink because of my Singaporean fear of unfiltered water, and yet these people have survived for generations like this), and well-wishes as I got on my way from each house.

The answers I got were astounding.

How do I reconcile that this place, just an hour's ferry ride away, has so many people who were simply delighted to have electricity, and shelter from the elements? That the greatest thing that can happen to a person (getting a home), is something I was born with? It also strikes me that no matter how much I try my best to understand them, and no matter how much I tell myself what I'm doing is good for them, at the end of it all I'm going back to my clean big Singaporean home with running water and air conditioning.

Gandhi said that "A coward is incapable of exhibiting love; it is the prerogative of the brave." These are brave people I saw, people who love each other and have faith in their communities. Young men my age, using their savings to study for a degree from the Open University, even though they're living miles away from the world as we know it. People who opened their hearts to a foreigner who comes from a world so different from theirs.

Sorry about disrupting your post btw OL, my experience today has changed me slightly inside and I think we all need these experiences once in a while, if only to grow into a more enlightened person.

AH

Tas ah

2011-03-16T01:34:00.003+08:00

Dear Teh (author of anonymous comments), Psycho, AH and Alvin, thanks for your responses on the blog.

Some of you like Ah Du and Mendi have read this and spoken to me about what you think, thanks as well. Though it would have been useful to put it here as well so everyone can see.

Some of you like Amanda, Talen have said little or not said anything at all, but have chosen to or intend to speak with your actions, bravo! Like I said, I hope it's not a one-off.

For certain others, this could be food for thought and fuel for action.

This time round, I've taken the initiative to be the 'conscience' of the group and reach out to everyone in a diplomatic manner. I don't know if I will have the time, or more importantly, if I will want to the next time round. I did not enjoy doing this at all. The next time round, I may choose to do it in a less than friendly manner. Or maybe someone else will step up.

Here are three great quotes to keep in mind:

"True responsibility is taken, not given." - Unknown

"It's not who you are underneath, it's what you do that defines you." - Batman Begins

"Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival." - C.S. Lewis

Cheers,
OL

From St. Lucia, with love :)

2011-03-13T15:42:00.002+08:00

Thanks OL for the heartfelt post. Hope to see more of the same from other ppl. Sorry for the late reply as I had no internet for the past few wks since I moved in to my new place. Things have only now become more settled especially since the start of semester and the added responsibility of being a tour guide to Luis Mendieta.

Firstly I’d like to apologise to OL for not replying your sms. I know it’s a lame reason but as you know I’m on the most basic hp plan, so every sms and call I make is costing and counts at the end of the month ($300 plus to be exact). I knew you would have contacted mandy and since he knew my birthday was super packed to meet up, he would have told you. Thus I did not reply you, hope you understand and that I appreciate the thought and well wishes!

The point I would most like to respond to is about ‘GMH not going anywhere’. Define ‘going somewhere’. ‘Misfits’ I agree to a large extent. ‘Underachievers’ I entirely disagree. I thought I knew what ‘achievement’ meant until I left sg. It is a super duper subjective term, so I’m unsure what you mean by why we cannot be something like other ppl. In fact, I’d be damned if I were to be like them. But that is a totally different topic for another day.

I understand the point you are trying to get across about other groups being able to meet up often, lend a listening ear to each other and essentially ‘grow’ together.
From my point of view, the crux of the matter lies gravely on societal pressures and trying to conform. As ppl get caught up in rat race, suddenly meeting an emo OL after work becomes a tiresome chore or even an impossibility for some coz of OT. This results in various kts that OL is trying to highlight.

This brings me to the point about making choices. We are no longer in secondary school. I’m darn sure at this age we make the choices about life knowing fully the consequences and what it promises to deliver. Like OL said, we all have different priorities in life. Everyone has the right to make their own choices. I respect that.

Simply put, if you choose a lifestyle or a job that entails draining the energy out of you in such a way that it is a challenge to meet a friend for dinner, I totally respect that and have no ill feelings whatsoever. You have made your decision out of your own free will, with no one forcing you, knowing full well what it means when you signed that contract and entirely aware of the consequences. If this is the life you choose, then good for you. There is no right or wrong coz you are entitled to your own set of priorities. Other ppl may differ, thus the misunderstandings.

I humbly seek your understanding if I have turned down shopping, dining and especially movies over weekends. As I have explained to some, the crowds simply turn me off. I’d rather stay at home and watch CNN than get on the train with 10000 frowny faces to Orchard, especially not after living overseas. As I mentioned above, I prefer to meet on weeknights supper, some of you prefer wkends. No one is right or wrong, just different life choices we made. However, I’m glad and entirely appreciative that I had regular meetups both on wkdays and wkends. This gives me great optimism that for GMH to return to its former glory, everyone has to meet halfway. And I have seen glimpses of that in the months I was back.

I think the entire Kumar post is simply stating the obvious. We all know who we are in his post and exactly what he is referring to. It was just a matter of him putting it down in words. We all know the problems that exist and some just choose to ignore and do nothing about it. I highly doubt his post will have long term effects but OL pls update me if I’m wrong.

One undeniable fact is that we are all pulling towards different directions in life. Some enjoy the busy life, some enjoy the peaceful life. That is why I thank God everyday for his blessings by showing me that there is a totally different world out there that is entirely contrary to the life I was brought up to live in. And I pray that you guys find your sanctuary someday. And if you already did, congratulations!
In conclusion, in the pursuit of happiness, just make bloody sure you are truly happy when you get there.

I attached this vid to lighten the mood and give u guys some options for a holiday or a permanent escape. Enjoy!~

God Bless,
alonso

(ps: I think it’s damn ironic that when OL is putting his point across about ppl being bo chup, 3 ppl chose to not leave their names after reading his post. Out of the 5 comments made, only 2 have a name under it. I have zero idea who the heck the other 3 are, it may be a bot for all we know. But having said that, at least they replied coz I got a feelin some may have read it and choose to ignore totally. Haha…)

A Response to Back from Limbo

2011-03-04T10:47:00.011+08:00

Extract of 'Back from Limbo' by Alvin Lim - July 26, 2010 (http://laosipkong.blogspot.com/2010/07/back-from-limbo.html)

This is an extract of Alvin's post from when he came back to Singapore last year:

"Back to addressing everyone. Before I left I predicted how the following year was gonna unfold and evaluated my absence. Having been back, I can honestly say I was 70%accurate. Absolutely nothing would have played out differently had I not left, thus I’m elated to conclude that it was a great personal decision to leave.

Looking back, my absence would also not have any bearing at all on any of your lives and truth be told, the way things are going at the moment, I can already predict what’s gonna happen in the next 10 yrs and I hope I’ll not be there to see it unfold. I also noticed a disturbing trend of meet ups simply because I was back. Whatever happened to the good old days of the past? Some of you may be reading this and I humbly urge you guys to not slip back to abyss after I leave. Pls don't allow Sunday soccer to become defunct.

In conclusion, I think I played my part simply by returning to break the monotony in many of your lives and also served as a reminder to some to maybe ponder why it takes a friend’s return to meet up with other friends who are merely a phone call away! I’ve done my bit and its time for me to leave. I honestly dunno when I’ll be back. It’s all up to the person up there and his plans. By giving and taking away lives, he gave me a sign to come back this time. Who knows when the next sign will be? Next week, next year or never."

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm posting this today because I like to look through old pieces of writing the way one would look through old photo albums, to think about how things and people change over time and how things are today. Primarily, I put this up because it caught my attention as something important when I first read it last year and I have kept it in mind ever since. Today, it warrants your attention, whether you remember this or not.

I don't usually pen down my thoughts here or anywhere for that matter, but this is long overdue. I have time on my hands for now and also I don't want my writing to get rusty. I have some thoughts that I want to get out there to ALL of you as a response to what Alvin previously said.

First and foremost, dear Alvin,

If you had not left, things would likely not have fundamentally changed, but I am sure that 30% would have mattered - everyone's lives would have been a little fuller and richer because every person counts and every little bit counts. Your being around would have meant one more supper kaki, one more soccer kaki, one more soccer organiser, one more weekend chillout kaki, one more source of ideas, one more source of support, one more listening ear, you get my drift. On my part, I will miss the lame jokes and intuitive understanding on the football pitch/court we built up over the many years of playing together. During your last match at St Wilfrid last month, when I came late, I remember we combined to score a goal less than 10 seconds after I had stepped onto the pitch. It was a simple goal, but I knew you would make that run even as I went to pick up the ball for the throw in. Simplicity is often the hardest thing to attain in life. Overall, things would have been different for the seemingly 'everyday' things, but that matters alot in the long-run.

But like you said, you made a personal decision and I am happy to see it looks like a decision well-made. I think your departure this time round was more significant becuase it will be your final semester before you enter the working world, where new challenges await as you enter the next phase of life. You're also not sure when you'll come to visit next. It's a pity we didn't have a proper farewell for you, but I sensed a focus and determination in you to prepare for the next phase and I hope to be toasting to your progress soon enough.

Dear everyone,

I want to get you thinking on some points Alvin made. I use names and examples and give my frank opinions below, but I'm sure you won't take this the wrong way. If you do, maybe my writing needs more work. I believe we can have a candid discussion that benefits all of us. At the very least, this allows me to get some stuff off my chest and better understand things. It's how I function.

1. "I can already predict what’s gonna happen in the next 10 yrs and I hope I’ll not be there to see it unfold."

This line haunts me the most because I know it will likely be true the way things are going. Yes, it is unrealistic to avoid certain realities of life. We all have dreams to chase, goals to achieve, expectations to live up to and responsibilities to bear. What is realistic is that we are collectively aware of this and try to react accordingly. Basically, it means not to take for granted the people around you and to develop some perspective on the 'big picture'. Breaking the 'big picture' down, it means not to focus on your individual/personal goals at the expense of those around you, because you cannot accomplish them all without help from others and because accomplishments are worth less if you can't share them with others. It means resisting that shallow "me first" mentality that drives our base survival instincts and to work towards becoming a more enlightened individual who is a better son/daughter/husband/wife/citizen and friend. It means not getting too engrossed in pursuing the material things just so you can lead a decent existence in this country or to scrap together enough to migrate. It means to constantly re-evaluate your priorities so you can lead a rich, meaningful and purposeful life.

There are friends who used to be close to us but are no longer for various reasons. As a case in point, I'm qualified to talk about one of them - Kati. Until today, I haven't completely figured out why he drifted away. Recalling my conversations with him and analysing things myself, he did so due to a combination of interconnected reasons. A partial reason is that he decided to pursue a full-time career in the media industry, which is a demanding and cut-throat one, but something he has a real passion and talent for. That cannot be a reason by itself, because everyone has career and other responsibilities to juggle. Secondly, he drifted away because he felt GMH wasn't really 'going anywhere'. We are, after all, a motley crue of misfits, underachievers and what-have-you. Kati is no saint himself and he knows that (that's why he calls himself the 'Mad Saint') , but he decided that he was going elsewhere. Kati and I used to compare GMH to other groups in our school or elsewhere, and we would always wonder why we couldn't be something like them. I still think about that till today, as I'm sure do alot of you. Thirdly, he felt increasingly distant from the other guys over the years as the chemistry changed as we became distinct individuals and he grew uncomfortable with the interpersonal and social dynamics in the group.

Kati and I are close, but we rarely meet because he never seems to have the time or to be able to make the time to hang out. On the rare occasion we do meet up, he eagerly asks about you guys and heaves a huge "sigh" as he thinks back about the "good ol' days". Keeping in touch with Kati is very painful for me because it reminds me of how close he and I used to be and how Kati used to be a big part of GMH, but how we have all drifted apart over time despite my efforts.

Call me an idealistic fool, but I don't want more of this to happen 10 years down the road, as I'm sure do all of you. Realistically speaking, I hope it can be kept to a minimum. In life, friends and acquaintances come and go, but it always helps to have some friends as constants, just like family. Better yet if family does not just mean those who are biologically-related to you.

2. " I also noticed a disturbing trend of meet ups simply because I was back."

Many of us are guilty of this. I mention more people and state my opinions and suggestions here, please feel free to respond.

Talen, I've observed that this most applies to you. I may be unaware of you meeting up with the others when Alvin is not around, but you seem to make time for gatherings mostly when Alvin is around. I know you have a busy schedule that revolves around work, business, your relationship, family, etc, that you have financial goals for the future, and that you responsibly organise and consistently turn up for soccer. I also hope you can make some time to hang out and catch up with the rest of us for weeknight dinners or weekends. Like I said, everyone counts. I'm sure a reasonably-priced meal or activity along with conversation now and then would be nice for everyone. Since you have a tight schedule, you can initiate and let one of us know when you want to hang out and suggest what we could do. You responded to Alvin's post, "at times, some of us may disappear but eventually I think we see each other as more like family where warmth and comfort is found". May I respond that the warmth and comfort of a family comes from time and effort. You used to be the most frequent contributor to the blog as well, that is another way to "meet up". I admit this may not be everyone else's cup of tea, less Ang Heng's.

When it comes to meet ups in general, I think Lulu and myself are least guilty since we currently initiate and organise most meet ups. Lulu is also almost always the generous designated driver for supper. Again, I may not be aware of some of you guys meeting up, but if it is a GMH gathering, the text message very often comes from Lulu and myself. While I am used to it and mostly glad to organise or contribute ideas, it is sometimes frustrating to be the 'perpetual organiser' when the rest of you mostly rely on us to make things happen or only join us if it happens to fit your schedule. I don't like it when people unduly take advantage of my goodwill or deem my company to be "second choice". I'm very sure you all identify with what I'm saying here. Dear Teh, Ang Heng, Psycho, Ah Du, Talen and Mendi, in no particular order, you guys could do more. How you do it or how much you want to is up to you, but please make sure it is not a one-off.

To expand on this, there were three birthdays in February - Ang Heng (11th), Mendi (14th) and Alvin (21st). It is a GMH tradition to have birthday gatherings, no matter how simple, but to my knowledge there wasn't a single 'official' birthday gathering. The obvious course of action here was to have organised one gathering to celebrate all three birthdays as well as to bid farewell to Alvin, provided all three birthday boys agreed to it. That is what I would probably have tried to do, but I was overseas during Ang Heng's and Mendi's birthday. To my knowledge, the rest of you guys, especially Lulu, Teh and Talen, did not make anything happen. Pardon my bluntness, but what the f**k happened?

Correct me if this is inaccurate/incomplete: For Ang Heng's birthday, Lulu forgot the date, Teh remembered but did not initiate anything and the rest of you were not in the picture at all. A guy who literally goes the extra mile to drive many of us home late at night and who generously offered his house to us for Christmas in addition to being a good friend deserves more. Teh, perhaps you were the best person in my absence to have made something happen. For Mendi's birthday, Alvin and Lulu had dinner with Mendi on his birthday, but it was a deliberate choice to keep it small-scale, for reasons I do not know. For Alvin's birthday, I forgot because I was jet-lagged and distracted after coming back from the U.K, Lulu and possibly some others remembered but nothing was initiated again. After Lulu reminded me about Alvin's birthday, despite my disappointment with the state of affairs, I tried to organise something for Alvin and the rest on either 21,22 or 23 Feb but Alvin was too busy to give me a proper reply and instead relied on Mendi to "liaise" with me on his availability, by which time it was too much of a rush and I had run out of patience.

If I sound like a pain in the ass on these matters, I have succeeded in getting your attention. Some of you, birthday boys included, may think I'm over-reacting. I disagree. Like I said, these little things can snowball over time and it'll be too late to fix things by the time you realise what has happened. I anticipate that most if not all of you will argue that you are either very busy or have no time. Well guess what - so is everyone else! So all the more we should all take some ownership and contribute what we can. It does not matter that some may contribute more and some less, this is ultimately about being a team player and keeping the 'big picture' in mind.

3. "Pls don't allow Sunday soccer to become defunct"

This is a point that overlaps with the second one. Sunday soccer has become a GMH institution, one very close to my heart. One of the main anchors of GMH is playing football together. (remember The New Paper feature on us?) Many of us got to know one another and developed close bonds playing and watching 'The Beautiful Game' together. Not all of us are football fanatics, but we still play because it is an excellent way to stay active and is something fun all of us can do. In St. Wilfrid, we have a 'homeground' with a very decent pitch at an affordable price. I don't take St. Wilfrid for granted because it is extremely difficult to hold down a regular place to play in this country. I know because I have done more than my fair share of organising football in various other places. At our 'peak' in St Wilfrid, we had a pretty big squad of players as well as many organisers we could count on to take turns.

Unfortunately but unsurprisingly, the number of players and organisers has dropped and is insufficient at times as players come and go and priorities change. However, the squad size is sufficient most of the time. The number of organisers has dropped as well but I think having Lulu, Teh, Talen, Benny, Meiqing and myself will suffice. I have always admired Talen's can-do attitude and meticulousness when it comes to organising soccer. I think the rest of us could learn to be a little like him and not treat organising as a burden that should be pushed away at the slightest opportunity. As long as we continue to have fun playng, there is no compelling reason for Sunday soccer to become defunct. I admit it is hard to maintain a high level of enthusiasm to keep it going especially when we encounter problems or have to manage other commitments, but if we have been playing together for so long, it must be because football offers something of value to us individually and collectively. I strongly encourage some of you like Psycho, Ah Du, Mendi and Amanda to join us whenever you can. Every player counts and you know you'll have great fun!

I spent quite a bit of time thinking about and writing this, so I hope you read it carefully and understand my message. If anything is not clear, I will gladly clarify. I Thank you.

Cheers,
OL

A Friend In Deed

2011-02-22T14:15:00.003+08:00

Monday night, on the train back home from town. I was reading A.C Grayling. Two points struck me.

First, Aristotle said that a true friend is 'another self'. The concern that you feel for your friend is the same concern that you feel for yourself, projected onto another person important enough to have become a part of you.

For that to happen, you must constantly leave open your heart and soul for the perusal of those important to you. That is the mark of true friendship. Certainly, those who know my weak sides and the dark, ugly parts of my soul are true friends to me, because I trust and love them as I do myself. Then it all boils down to this: it is not love, companionship, loyalty and all those nice ideals that define friendship. In the end, it is honesty.

Hard, brutal honesty to overcome the fear of judgement. Once that fear is overcome, you'll find that true friends do not judge because true friends understand that pure honesty is beyond judgement. True friends understand that this is who/what you are and it is strength on your part to have shown it to them.

Secondly, Grayling himself said that life is contract for loss. To live is to always be prepared for loss, because it is impossible for any life not to include any loss. (Unless one is to pass on before his loved ones, thus sparing him the agony of losing them.)

But life is always fraught with losses, and this is a condition I am still not able to come to terms with.

4 horse race and moi

2011-01-05T00:52:00.003+08:00

A new year and a new term awaits. I'm checking out the other racers at the starting line. Not looking good

No.1: Bachelor from Princeton University, Masters from Harvard University.

No.2: Bachelor and Masters from Columbia University.

No.3: Bachelor and Masters from Cornell University.

No.4: A few Bachelors and a Masters from the London School of Economics.

Sure, I'm finally slugging it out with the best and the brightest.

So why do I still feel like the underdog? It's nothing to do with pedigree, NTU has given me an education that makes my Masters worth its weight in gold. It is the dark feeling that I can be much better than this, running faster than I am right now, working harder than that.

I'm not sure where my limits are, or whether I'm even being the best I can be right now.

But this is the real GMH spirit I guess, we get knocked down but we get up again. Excellence is a bitch to achieve, but every aspect of our lives hinge on it. Lambo, kips, status, fame, fortune and control over one's own destiny. None of these can come without hard work or ambition. So we keep our heads down and slog, occasionally looking up to check out the stars and see how far that light at the end of the tunnel is.

Everything can turn out so beautifully, so long as I continue punching above my weight and keeping my chin above the water. Then there's the problem that lightweights always face: you can slug above your weight, but you better damn well be able to take a punch from the big boys.

Annual Christmas Celebration at AH's

2010-12-30T13:30:00.004+08:00

Garlic Bread King!

Silver Bells...

2010-12-18T12:25:00.006+08:00

The holiday seasons are turning out to be a period of intense introspection for me. So much change is going on within me, I can sense and I know I can (will) not stop it. Maybe its the Christmas lights, or the December cold. It always brings out the most human aspects of me. This post will be deliberately vague. For those who understand what I'm talking about, then its probably meant for you. For those who don't understand some bits here and there, serves you right for not coming out last night for Tron and supper! ;)

In a couple of months' time, I turn 27. While I've always believed I wanted to be the best I can be, in every aspect of my professional life, a new possibility has opened to me. I have become tired of chasing material rewards, becoming a bratty ingrate.

I know, I was born in a harsh system of intense competition, meant to bring out the best in the 3 odd million souls in existence. I screwed up before, and I know what it feels like to have doors slammed shut in my face. But fortune always favors the brave. You know, I cannot begin to tell you how many doors I've had to knock on, how many pleas I had to make, how many favors I had to use up, how many humiliating moments I had to endure. All to no avail.

But eventually, the system took me back in, gave me a shot at something far greater than what I could have been on my own. This was my decision last week: I want to make sure this system survives. I want to be there if this system needs my expertise. I want this to be a pledge I can honor.

The past 2 years have also seen me recover completely from an emotional trauma, and allowed a great intellectual transformation to take place within me. However, the pursuit of intellectual enlightenment is an isolating, lonely process. To look greatness in the eye and profess to want it more than anything else in the world, is as good as selling your soul and jeopardizing your emotional well-being.

But this week, by sheer chance, I've been receiving some measure of warmth, affection and constant companionship (albeit from a distance) in my usually cold existence. (doesn't mean I haven't been happy with my cold existence btw. I've always been a solitary person) From an intellectual equal, no less. Alas, I myself am a work in progress. A wannabe until I prove my achievements. How can I possibly share the parts of my life that are in a constant mess, and rife with conflict? How can I possibly hide that either?

You're damned if you do, you're damned if you don't.

The again, can a man of science, knowledge and philosophy possibly be any more damned than he already is?

Xiao Long Baos!

2010-12-05T20:24:00.004+08:00

14 'longs' of Xiao Long Baos later...

Overtly Covert

2010-11-12T15:55:00.002+08:00

Today is the second day of the G20 summit. Singapore sits at the inner table because we represent the Global Governance Group (3G). This is a group that we had set up to represent nations who were excluded from the G20.

Why am I posting this? Because I have a point to make.

What we have here is an example of brains over brawn. This is how a small nation can trump larger and richer nations to take the the role of leader. (or maybe nobody else wanted to lead, who knows?)

Power truly comes from being able to get people to listen to you, and take your opinions seriously. It's all about doing the things that no one else is willing or able to do.

AH

Letters from the fringes

2010-10-24T11:57:00.004+08:00

I have just been reminded by Psycho that I haven't written here for very long, which is true. By some fluke, I've managed to get myself started prematurely on persuing my doctoral dreams and so begins my journey into the fringe and the void. (more than 3 months in, I'm starting to get the twilight zone feeling on increasing occasions during the week)

Almost like persuing any dreams at all, graduate studies are intense and isolating. (Psycho, please take note for future reference) You spend days holed up either in your cubicle at the office or at your study desk at home, reading piles of papers and writing pages of work yourself. You spend Friday and Saturday nights writing because you just spent all week (in its entirety, I'm not joking) doing research. All the people you interact with on a daily basis are either geeks, weirdos, or really important people who can't be bothered to speak more than a sentence to you.

I can't say I'm complaining, because frankly I enjoy the quiet time and the sense of fulfilment when I look at the product of my hard work each night. I feel terrible when I realise I haven't achieved anything on any particular day.

Then there are the endless hours of data-crunching.

I remember doing Econometrics as an undergraduate some years back, I hated it and vowed never to have anything more to do with it upon graduation. (being the hardcore Keynesian economist that I was) I run regressions every week now, using data I collected from databases and government statistical boards. So it is, that we must do the things we dislike early so that we can do the things we love later. We also do the things we dislike early so that someday we can learn to do things that make a difference to others.

Unabashedly, I always tell people that I want to contribute to knowledge and process, whether in the academia or policy circles. Who doesn't want to have an impact on the world they're born in? Life is not a game, there's no reset button. They may be an afterlife, or there may not be. I'm not taking any chances. We all learn to work hard today, because tomorrow may simply be one day less for us to make a difference to this world. As an academic, I face a countdown timer. I now have 34 years left to produce the most important piece of work in my life-time, one that will define who I am and what I represent.

34 years is surely sufficient to churn out many papers and many books, but it's not a lot of time to write a magnus opus.

AH

Misunderstanding...

2010-09-11T00:18:00.003+08:00

Hi,

I have heard some misunderstanding and confusion that my blogshop, The Nicey Shop, is selling 2nd hand clothes.

I will like to clarify that what I sold on The Nicey Shop are all 1ST HAND CLOTHES. The 2nd hand clothes are sold at another website called Clothes X Change.

Thus, please do not continue to spread the message that I am using The Nicey Shop to sell 2nd hand clothes.

The effect will be very desvastating to us as we are a new blogshop in this competitive environment. This will really hurt our reputation and moving forward, may cause us to close down The Nicey Shop.

Therefore, I urge you to continue to visit The Nicey Shop (www.theniceyshop.blogspot.com) and also recommend it to your friends, even if its just 1 friend, I will be happy enough.

One more person knowing it equals to one more chance of having one more customer.

Please continue to show your support. Really appreciate.

Thanks.

Regards,
Blackburn

Like this..

2010-09-09T22:00:00.005+08:00

Who needs mani the parrot or paul the octopus.. when we have mendi the tao!!

Can't wait for Christmas 2010!!

2010-09-09T21:56:00.002+08:00

hahahahahah!! chanced upon this video when I was using my camcorder.

It seemed fitting to post this after the previous entry... =)

Please visit The Nicey Shop...

2010-09-03T16:10:00.003+08:00

Hi people,

It’s been a long time since I wrote anything on this blog. How time flies.

I do understand that I have been missing on the GMH gatherings since don’t know when… But like I always say, I am busy.

Working has been hectic. Trying to shine in an “unshinable” place is a very hard thing to do. On top of your regular work, you will have to keep suggesting improvements and projects. But so far, things seem to be turning around. Just hope for my bonus (If there is any) to be BIG BIG.

And there is my dream. Many of you knew I always wanted my own business. Thus, when I graduated, I keep finding opportunities to do something.

Then I met her, my GF. She is a shopper. Always shopping for clothes. Almost 70% of the time, we are shopping.

Haha… then something struck me. I realise that not only GF shop for clothes. ALL LADIES DOES SHOP FOR CLOTHES. Whatever that is on the shelf, there will definitely be someone buying it.

So I started collecting 2nd Clothes. That time was around Chinese New Year and people were throwing their clothes away. So I decided to take them and sell it in a flea market.

It was a simple plan. But being sceptical about my own abilities in selling clothes, I ask Amendi to join forces with me. To keep the long story short, we (GF, Me, Amendi, Amendi’s friend) made it well.

(I like to take this time to thank Amendi and her friend who came to help as well. Hope you ladies have a good experience as well. I also like to thank those who have given me their old clothing! Really appreciate.)

Anyway after that, GF and I decided to do it on our own. We did a few more times of flea market and it was slightly rewarding, but I realise there is a limit as to what I can sell/do at a flea market.

Then GF introduced online shopping to me. It was a whole new world to me, something which I always do not really bother about/as well as being sceptical about. After knowing this world inside out, I decided to embrace the possibility of having my own blogshop!

So long story short again. After many months of effort, I currently have a blogshop online.

Its name is “The Nicey Shop” and the link is http://www.theniceyshop.blogspot.com/

Currently the products are not up yet as the first launch is this Sunday (5th Sep) at 3pm. But preview of the launch is already up in our facebook.

This being the first collection, I really do hope for success. But with only GF and I, I think it will be pretty hard to shine in this saturated online blogshop market. Thus, I will really need your help. Guys, please help me advertise to your friends. Girls, please buy from me and also advertise for me.

Help me realise my dream and make it into a successful reality!

Once again, I thank those that are going to help me. I really appreciate. No matter what happens in the future, you will be remembered.

Before I end, I also like to thank my GF. She has also been putting in a lot of time and effort to be on this journey with me. Thank a lot! This blogshop will never be a reality if not for you. My dream will always be a dream if not for you. Thank you.

So please visit http://www.theniceyshop.blogspot.com/ on 5th Sep 2010 at 3pm!

Thank you and have fun!

Regards,
Blackburn aka TT aka Terence

CAMBODIA!

2010-08-23T19:35:00.006+08:00

Many of you know I travel to Cambodia yearly (except for the one yr I tio kangtao lost my passport in vietnam and got deported back to Singapore) to visit my friends there and run some errands. The country has a special place in my heart - from the connectedness I have with the families at the village (who are all grown up now), the unfortunate history of genocide, the Khmer language which is like music to my ears, to the iced coffee and beef noodle stalls at the Russian Market. This time, I had the company of Teh and his 2 zany friends. We spent some time at the village (Teh exclaimed it was worse than in army!?!?!) and made some jasmine sticks (see pic below) in return for our accommodation. Teh claimed to have made the most perfect piece of jasmine stick for a**l.

Simple fare at the village.

My friend, R and the jasmine sticks! not easy ok!

Breakkie at BB World while waiting for Teh and his friends to arrive at PP.

Meat Meat and more Meat!

Newly refurbished Central Market at the background

Teh, obviously very happy with his breakfast at our very lovely hotel in the city.

Poolside breakfast!!

the inviting swimming pool

Bodia Spa

pampered myself on the last day when I was alone

(Teh and friends went on to Siem Reap)

I want this water feature in my future home!

This is the story of a USD 4.50 meal.

I gave USD 20 and walked away without getting the change. The next morning I went back, it was not opened for business yet, and I had to catch the plane back.

fml.

*amendi*

Find your love

2010-08-16T01:51:00.001+08:00

Semper Fidelis,
Nandha "OL" Kumaran

Back from Limbo

2010-07-26T16:52:00.003+08:00

Dearest Gentlemen and Women,

To be brutally honest, at times these 2 months flew by in a flash while other times it was painfully slow. Let’s begin with the latter.

The world class transport system has made the straightforward trip from my house to the central seem longer than from here to Brisbane. The auntie breathing down my neck certainly did not make the trip more comfortable nor justify my 80 cents fare. On hindsight, maybe it would have been more expensive without her, thus I must count my blessings. Just when I thought I could breathe easier, I walked to take the train and realised if there was ever a canned human sardine tin, this must be it. Then I looked at the time. 1120 am. If that was “non-peak” hour, then peak hour must resemble “War of the Worlds”.

Time flies when I’m playing soccer at St Wilfrid, or bowling, or watching the World Cup, or at the ktv, or certain la liang sessions where many of you have to work the next day. Time flies when you are having fun, and speeds up faster when ppl are rushing home for work the next day. Hahaha..

I would personally like to thank all of you guys. I probably learnt more in these 2 months than I ever did in the previous 10 plus years I’ve spent with you guys. Inadvertently or otherwise, you have taught me the type of life I wanna live and strive for upon graduation. If I had any doubts, these 2 months have overwhelmingly cleared them.

Here is a list of ppl I wanna thank in alphabetical order (not in order of importance or significance):

Amanda: Thanks for taking the effort to meet me for ktv and fish and co. I enjoyed myself immensely that day and much appreciate the fact that you stayed till 2am despite having to work the next day. But come to think of it, dunno is it because of the ktv or me hor? Hahaha. No matter what, that was the first time we sang together and I had an awesome time. Thanks for the well wishes! Continue to rock in your noble job, you have my admiration and respect!

Ang Heng: Changi Village was a real eye-opener. Bowling was an eye-gorger. Thanks a million for the effort to meet up for supper despite your heavy schedule. I loved your stories that day (which I can’t type here). Hahaha. Send my regards to Huiwen and lang lang. Hope the next time I’m back I get a chance to address you as ‘Doc’. “C” with blood. Out. Wonder why you never bowled that day..Hmm…

Ah Du: Bladder!~ thanks for your haircut at St Wilfrid Toilet!~ although a bit gay, it is the most unforgettable haircut experience of my life! When u become famous, I can tell ppl you cut my hair with your $500 scissors in a public toilet! Hahah..All the best in your new saloon and I’m sure you will go far in this job!~ God bless!~

Benny Tan: Prince of Persia and Despicable Me. Thanks for the Balestier supper and taking the special effort to borrow the car. I know you went out of ur way coz of me. Thank u bro ben, thus, I forgive you for the Sunday church aeroplanes. But you need to ask someone higher up for forgiveness. Really lookin forward to the day when I open my msn and receive a msg “I went to church today” from “Bro ben”.

Bing Han: Thanks a trillion for organising the gathering with Joanne and Co! I loved the $10 fish and chips leh!~Like I said, I had an awesome time at ktv!~ when sing andy lau together again? Brings back sec sch memories leh..Haha.. I like your Show Luo and Ku Ju Ji spamming. Tapai tisiao la. Smoke less la, the next time I’m back instead of chest pains I hope u complain of muscle aches coz of gym training. Haha. Take care and have fun with ur Viet kip!!~

Edward: Edward kor kor!! Thanks for making the effort down just now to eat at Romas. With your steadip hairstyle, I’m sure you’ll find a suitable job soon la, dun worry! The very most come Aus work Subway with mandy lo. He planned liao. I enjoyed watching the match at ur house downstairs leh, mai tisiao, 2014 go again. Miss the Mj times and dan kiu. Come find me soon, I’ll bring u to Pok Sah!~SEM LONG PEK QUAM JI!~

Teh: When Arnold’s chicken and Zhu Jiang again?!~ mai sian about your all boys sch. After 5 wks back to kip haven liao. Have fun in Cambodia!~Really hope that you will return to church soon and regain your faith. I’m sure you know that Backsliding is spiritually dangerous. I’ll keep u in prayer.! Hope you find a steadip gf soon!~ Take care and stay HWEAT!~

Maw: eh bo la!~

Joanne: Dunno if you even know of this blog’s existence haha.. But just wanna thank you for making the effort to meet up after work. Even more touching is you staying from KTV till the wee hours even though I could tell you were super tired. I think BH kept u awake right? Haha.. thanks a million I really appreciate it!~ U missed my andy lau leh. How? All the best in your secret job hunting and see u at Yui’s concert in Japan someday. Haha..

Long-Ge’s fren: Wo gen ni jiang ah!~ thanks for lessening the pain of my WC losses. I treated it as though I was paying for your match analysis. See you in 2014. I will be back by hook or by crook just to listen to u.

Psycho: Thanks for your Maggi Goreng treat!~ haha.. all the best with Thigh. Study hard in SIM and get on the dean’s list hor!~ you can do it!~ Cut the wo eh bo eh distractions and put in your best effort, after all this is your last academic pursue. Why not go all out?we all know you are more than capable of excelling if you put ur mind to it. graduate liao, Masters in Aus lor! On Scholarship then can stay with me tisiao together. Haha.. Take care and smoke less and train fit fit again!~I miss ur bowling niam niam already.

OL: (refer to 300 video). Boh la kong qiu. I noe u are stressing at the crossroads (insert boyband song), but watever decision u make I’m sure you will be fine. Hope u organise another end of the year Aus trip with your bonus. This time I’ll be there (unless my sis decides to give birth again). Zong ji mi ma. Loser lappy dance while driving. Thanks for your 2x beef skillet which I haven’t gotten yet. Stay cool, stay funny, stay tall, stay black.

Talen: Really appreciate you making the special effort to organise soccer. Despite knowing all the kangtaos and pitfalls, you still went ahead, grit your teeth and organised it specially for me. Really much appreciated. Million Thanks and Kudos for also trying your best to meet up with me constantly for supper etc in spite of your hectic schedule and fatigue from Queensway. Pleasantly surprised about FM too!~ so wu xim. If I kip I sure jio u. eh boh la!~ hope u meet the guys more often even after I leave. Next time when I return I hope to see that special someone!~ haha..take care and Blackburn to win EPL!~really sorry for ur latest kt coz of me but I really appreciate you coming down despite all that. Everything will work out don’t worry!

LULU: Ouyang Mian Mian!~ finally wont get to hear your hen lei hen lei anymore. Now no one will give u kt ask you out for supper late late after I leave. Happy, can reach home by 7 and sleep all u want liao. LULU!~ thanks for all your treats and trips in your car whenever I feel too lazy to drive. No more braddell mac already, how?? Keep your hp on in case mandy wanna borrow lui lui coz EPL starting soon.haha..take care and enjoy Scotland!~ send my regards to mx in a Scottish accent. I wanna drink PEHSI!~ win me bowling hor lihai!~I miss ur finger pointing bowling celebration.

Kaizhen: Bro, did u enjoy my chocolates? Touched boh come visit you on ur bday dinner! Sorry bout ur phone. When marry must invite me hor and when u get ur bonus come with ed to visit me liao lor!~ mai tu!~ btw I haven got the Liverpool jersey and the new epl season is starting. How? Bo la kong qiu la!~And last but not least pls continue changing numbers without informing me and then messaging me assuming a miracle has taken place and I somehow know it is you. This is the 2nd time. Song. Win me bowling hor lihai. After I tease u that “everyone close fight except u.”haha..

Puiboon: Puiboon, when ‘the one’? actually I go study is because I wanna get a degree before applying for the French stall managerial position. Such is the love for the restaurant and Robert. Btw I saw auntie Lam with mandy at hougang lo. Lucky she never see me if not ask me 1000 questions until I miss my flight. Song. Anyway glad to see you settled in a stable job, gone are the days of job-hoppin. Try to tally ur wedding with tong-ge in accordance with kz and ed’s ok? So I dun need to make 2 trips. Haha.. ok take care and send my regards to catween!~see ya and mai sian!~Thanks for making the trip down for bowling and being our photographer!

Luis “My Wife” Mendieta: I’m sorry I have to use English to convey my innermost feelings and gratitude because I know no language in the universe can adequately express the myriad of emotions we have went through in the past month or so. You have been a part of my life in a way I never could have imagined. If married life was as such, I would get married now. You have been the mirror of my wife. There for me 24/7.

Grocery shopping, bowling, turkey, toy story 3, hotpot, buffets, shopping, flooding, deliveries, Koi, Toast Box, Bossini, Guotie, Wanton, Soccer, World Cup, Cheese Fries, Sizzling Drumlets, Flaming Drumlets, Sushi, Arnold’s, Deep Fried Mushrooms, Nuggets, apple pie, Hangten, Aglio Olio, Barca Potato chips, $6 parking fee, 4-2 kt, Yogurt, $7 jeans, spit on me, talk halfway, flip here flip there, 8 match winning streak, 300, eboue, dancing with bible, Dutch Lady, step on head celebration, Maserati, macdonald free glasses, bird on goal post, HRM Project, Pedro kt, Dragon Gate kt, comics, number generator, 5-5 bowling, Sprite, coupons, onion, Cameroon kt, SUNFLOWER, and the never ending list goes on and on...The van has become my second home, when I start work I will work hard to buy it from ur boss and convert it to a caravan. 5-5 bowling score how to settle?

On a serious note, thank u xianjie for driving me all over sg in the day. Something I will never do especially with the traffic, but you showed me your skill and I am in awe. You have the hardest handbrake in the world. I’ve seen a major improvement in the past year I was away and an even humongous one when I compare the Genting Mandy of the past. Although I miss parts of the old mandy, the new mandy has brought along with him a higher level of tisiao coz of “Jy..” eh bo la!~

HE DA XIA~! Xie le!~ I enjoyed myself immensely. I will anticipate your good news on Sunday. If you bring kip visit me dun say dun have, I will learn more dishes and cook for you. Soft Shell Crab and Wasabi prawns also can.

Back to addressing everyone. Before I left I predicted how the following year was gonna unfold and evaluated my absence. Having been back, I can honestly say I was 70%accurate. Absolutely nothing would have played out differently had I not left, thus I’m elated to conclude that it was a great personal decision to leave.

Looking back, my absence would also not have any bearing at all on any of your lives and truth be told, the way things are going at the moment, I can already predict what’s gonna happen in the next 10 yrs and I hope I’ll not be there to see it unfold. I also noticed a disturbing trend of meet ups simply because I was back. Whatever happened to the good old days of the past? Some of you may be reading this and I humbly urge you guys to not slip back to abyss after I leave. Pls don't allow Sunday soccer to become defunct.

On the other hand, I cannot express my gratitude enough in terms of the effort put in to meet up with me. Especially to the working personnel who specially take time off your hectic schedule and special effort to catch up despite your fatigue. (eg psycho take cab down after meeting kip, bingtai’s ktv till 3 am though working the next day and talen driving down just to meet me) I could tell from your faces that sometimes you guys were really tired after a long day at work, yet fought through fatigue to meetup. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I really appreciate it. Your gestures mean a lot to me and made me feel like a special friend. I promise to do the same the next time when I enter the workforce (which is pretty soon and if I’m physically there).

In conclusion, I think I played my part simply by returning to break the monotony in many of your lives and also served as a reminder to some to maybe ponder why it takes a friend’s return to meet up with other friends who are merely a phone call away! I’ve done my bit and its time for me to leave. I honestly dunno when I’ll be back. It’s all up to the person up there and his plans. By giving and taking away lives, he gave me a sign to come back this time. Who knows when the next sign will be? Next week, next year or never.

Like inception, I need to wake up from this 2 month long dream and return to reality, and you guys provided the kick. My totem was mandy’s turkey because in reality it would be impossible for him to have 3 strikes in a row. In fact, I’m quite sure I’m still fast asleep somewhere in St Lucia.

To each and everyone one of you: Take care and God bless. My extra empty bed will always remain exclusively empty for gmh should anyone decide to come.

I leave you guys with this song and a quote from one of only a handful of ppl in this world whom I truly respect.

“We work to live, not live to work”. Go figure.

(ps: I just realised my alphabet has failed miserably even though I tried to keep up by humming the ABC song)

alvin

Speak Goof English

2010-07-25T19:01:00.003+08:00

Overhead at a fruits store along Katong Road:

Woman (young and fluent. attractive too, I must say): Is this all the bananas you have?

Store assistant (young, fluent too but in the wrong way): oh, you want orrh (black) one ah? We don't have sell here.

Woman: No, I mean do you have any other bananas...

(lost in drone of crowd. this writer had no particular interest in following this conversation to the end either.)

Lesson #1: don't use complicated language on simple people.
Lesson #2: given the rather cosmopolitan clientele of the east coast area, call a black banana a black banana and quit the colloquail!

Ang Heng

A Wedding Dinner Promise

2010-07-11T19:57:00.002+08:00

As promised,

I will personally go on stage and lead this special song when Mandy or Ah Du get married during their wedding dinner. I purposely create this post so that the promise is documented. It's a promise I intend to keep. I figure I have a couple of years to perfect this song, by then I will make sure it's pitch-perfect.

Here is a mini preview of what's to come. Of course, my performance will involve real earthworms and a couple of MJ moves integrated.

Enjoy.

alonso

The Elusive Turkey...

2010-07-10T04:21:00.002+08:00

Dear all,

After an impromptu high level committee meeting, we have reached the consensus of using the soccer fund to reserve a whole tablet block in the crematorium just for GMH members in the event of any passing ons. The idea is to tisiao even after death. So u have been alerted. Kindly state your preference for which slot is preferred. (eg. Mandy say he dun wanna be beside Talen, he scared Talen keep niaming him if he is just next door.) The top level will be exclusively reserved for OL coz his descendants will be very lanky like him. Let's pray our tablets won't get vandalised coz of him (kong qiu).

Alternatively, to cut costs, we may consider getting an extra large urn so that our ashes can simply be added on and mixed together to save space. The shape of the urn will be likened to the World Cup and of course plated with pure gold. (unless OL disagrees).

Finally, we still have not decided where our final resting place shall be. Thus, suggestions are very welcome at this moment.

So push off whatever plans you have for your respective religions which may deem it necessary to have various cremation traditions. GMH tradition overrules all.

On a different note altogether, this song is dedicated to Psycho who by some miracle have not heard it. In my opinion, its a million times better than the bloody irritating Oh yeah Oh yeah 'song'. I'm gonna start a petition to make this the new YOG song.

Btw, see u guys for the next WC.

Take care and God Bless.

alvin

Ayn Rand and Iron Man

2010-07-04T12:18:00.002+08:00

3 weeks has passed since my last exam, a week since my status as a Masters graduate has been conferred upon me. Yet, my life is still a heady mixture of financial crises, behavioural economics and Brett Easton Ellis. The only thing unacademic about my life now are my almost daily runs. Even then, these runs have provided me with time and space to think.

It is exceedingly difficult to separate myself from the consumerism and capitalism that must go on in my daily life (shopping, television, Starbucks coffee, etc etc) and appraise the system objectively. Enslavement is rarely an option that can be declined. As Nietzsche predicted, I'm only human, too human. The task required of me is equivalent to trying to become the Above Human or the Over Human. Of course, that isn't going to stop me.

So much is expected out of anyone hoping to pursue a future as an intellect, or even an academic in the social sciences. You gradually become eccentric and more worringly so, highly cynical of the things that people around you spend their time on. Watching a football match is also understanding that I am subscribing to a Western phenomena which requires everyone to go with the rules laid down by those who wield power (economic and cultural). Giving money to these people is equivalent to a tribute to western superiority.

I owe it to the many budding Asian intellects and academics, whom I've had the priviledge of knowing, not to propagate a culture that denigrates everything we've worked so hard to achieve.

In my journey so far, I have managed to piss many people off. Friends, family, loved ones. I will continue pissing people off, I'm sure. I find it increasingly difficult to do things to gain the approval or acceptance of others. Perhaps this is the fate of the New Intellectuals mentioned by Ayn Rand, people with a responsibility to question and critique. Then again, maybe I just don't ever want to see myself grovel for the sake of gaining acceptance. I don't want to lose respect for myself.

One must always know who and what he/she is, and hold fast to that knowledge. There are too many in this world who will try to impose their will upon you, for fear that the project they have invested themselves in lack the sort of critical mass which is required to sustain it. "I" has become so precious a commodity in a world flush with "We"'s and "Them"'s.

Ang Heng

Disclaimer (of sorts)

2010-06-07T00:47:00.003+08:00

Please note that this author is currently treading the precipice that divides Heideigger's being and non-being; Sartre's being and nothingness. His travels into the simularcra and the hyper-real has exerted an immense toll on his mental well-being.

He is playing a dangerous game that is slowly erroding his sense of good and bad, here and there, right and wrong, then and now, Him and That which is It. Rest assured that he will wrestle with his demons and perform his rear naked chokes, arm-bars, kimuras, triangles, etc in due time.

Til then, the events depicted in these posts, real or fictional; physical or metaphysical, are rife with subjectivity and the musings of an unquiet mind.

In other words, don't mind me. (and get that darned 'bell jar' off my head!)

Ang Heng

"Are we humans are are we dancers?"

2010-06-05T22:56:00.004+08:00

By some odd twist of fate, everybody's gone clubbing tonight and I've managed to squeeze in some time for a 5km run and time to read some Sartre.

Maybe not so odd, since clubbing is an activity I've successfully avoided for the past 26 years of my life. Yes, I've never gone clubbing.

Perhaps its because I can neither drink nor dance, but as is the case for any phenomena, there is an ontological reason for this aversion and inability. Namely, I do not like to lose consciousness of my sense of being. I don't like not being in control of myself, subject to intoxication or the spasmodic bodily jerking that threatens to rob me of my hard-earned dignity.

On a separate note, my A'level Chemistry teacher's warning that alcohol results in higher bodily fat levels has spooked me for life. Ever heard of the legendary beer belly?

Like so many choices in my life, everything boils down to control. I love putting on proper clothes no matter where I go, because I want a little more control over what others perceive of me. I don't want people to think I'm sloppy.

I don't like dumb girls, not because I expect them to talk about politics or economics (these being mere signifiers of intelligence and not intellect), but because I'm more interested in girls who haven't been indoctrinated into a channel 8 - induced contentment. In other words, I want to know more opinionated and intellectually-sophisticated people, because I want to be in control of my own intellectual development.

I watch my diet and exercise regularly because I want to be in control of the way I look and feel. I want to look fit and feel healthy. This is obviously something I have never taken for granted, since my fitness was earned through discipline and some help from the army.

In a world where the essence of anything has become part of its own appearance, what you do and what you say become what you really are inside.

Perhaps I'm asking a bit too much out of the people around me. Would that I can be like Jean Paul Sartre, with a lover like Simone De Beauvoir and a buddy-cum-rival like Albert Camus. Sartre had it so easy, in the heady intellectual environment of post-war France. You could toss a stone into the crowd and you'd probably have hit an up-and-coming philosopher/political economist/activist.

Here you get clones.

I somehow think I'm never going to get a girlfriend, since I'd ideally prefer a girl who accepts my intellectual ambitions and respects that I don't club/drink/smoke. (unless there is someone awfully important doing these activities and it'll really bring great career benefits for me to partake in these activities.)

In small-town Singapore, that's as bad as asking for the stars to twinkle a little brighter through the gloom of uniformity. Then again, single-hood hasn't been bad at all, since I've had "my books and poetry to protect me". (Simon and Garfunckle)

Ang Heng

"Don't Cross The Line"

2010-05-23T17:44:00.004+08:00

Super di siao Saturday night with fellow di siao-ers.

Now we know that Mendi is a sensitive fella. (outraged and slightly violent response to Lulu's mention of his lack of girlfriend)

And we know that we must suit up if we wanna get girls. (Kumar)

Or that good looking people earn 25% more than average people. (Teh)

And that pursuing a healthy lifestyle can provide good conversation topics with kips. (Me)

Most importantly, "Don't cross the line" (Mendi)

All of the above is true of course, being the highly intelligent (and vaguely deluded) individuals that GMH has come to represent. (ok, maybe not everyone is intelligent or deluded, no pointing of fingers.)

Perhaps the most important take-way point of the evening, we are all nice, decent-looking guys with good futures and careers, so why are there no kips in GMH???

Although I must say, I've gotten so used to a kip-less existence to the point that its almost dangerous. Get home to an empty house at 3am. Sit down at the dining table with a tea and my dogs around me. Work on my paper til 5am, in time to see the start of a new day. Collapse in bed. Wake up a mess at 3pm to pick my folks up at the airport. Work on my other paper til now.

Somehow I'm happy. (Although having a kip will make me even happier.) I've lived the life of a carefree writer for the past few days, cooking meals for myself at all the wrong times, sleeping at weird hours and waking up at even weirder hours. Driving out when I need something and zipping back home in time to write. Wearing geek t-shirts to town. Talking to my dogs and admonishing them for bad behaviour, as if they're the kids I never had. (They are.)

Can I live that sort of life for the rest of my life? Certainly, I just need credible first book to be published. Maybe a fellow pomo traveller as my significant other would be fantastic. If not, so be it. I'll write more.

2am at Hougang: guy lugging his friend home, completely knocked out.
Forever-am at wherever: my mind lugging my soul home, completely numbed.

Ang Heng

Bed-shaped and legs of stone.

2010-05-20T22:05:00.003+08:00

Just came back from meeting a kip financial adviser. (Yes, I only meet kip ones.)

I realise that being in the line I'm in has negative social consequences. A gap is building between me and many of my peers. I'm starting to not understand other young people in pretty much the same way they're starting not to understand me. The ideas that drive me are pulling me further and further away from the people around me. I've been climbing a mountain out of faith and forgetting that there are people at the base-camps as well.

We are all climbing our individual mountains, each trying to get as high as possible. Along the way, we have guides who teach us where to step and how to climb. These guides affect the way we think as well. Along the way, we make great friends who climb that mountain with us, or simply the guy over at the other mountain, hollering at you, asking you how's the weather on your side.

I started climbing way back, with Karl Marx (man of much balls and facial hair) rallying me to climb up there and kick off whoever's at the top. Somehow, Nietzsche came along and told me (with that glint in his wizened eyes) that no, you climb that mountain because others prefer you not to, and they don't even believe that moutains are meant to be climbed. As I went to slightly headier heights, Derrida came along, with his cigarette trailing an eternal wisp of smoke and in that paternal way of his, telling me that the mountain is only high because I've been looking at other people's mountains far too much.

Foucault was a great companion too, beautiful person that he was, with a ready sense of humour. He reminded me that a moutain was only treacherous because lesser folks thought so, and people who've climbed it prefer to tell you that it is treacherous, so that you won't even bother to try and displace them. (Good buddy of Karl that he was.) Notes of encouragement from a man who shares my hairstyle, Antonio Gramsci, reminded me how pervasive the views of those people at the top are, no I mustn't listen to them or watch any TV on the way up.

Then came the greatest teacher of all time. Jean Baudrillard, who told me: look that is not a mountain you're climbing you're still stuck in the simulacra. That's an ice-berg, you need to climb to the top and take a deep breath of air, for you've been drowning for so long now that you've forgotten you were dead in the first place. Now's the time to reborn. Now's the time to stop living in the land of the dead.

I've learnt a lot about how to live from dead men. Someday I know I will throw myself behind an idea, and start to live. Today, I'm barely half-way up that mountain. We must all climb our mountains, because there's only up or down and honestly, down is never an option.

Ang Heng

Good Night and Good Luck

2010-05-03T16:23:00.003+08:00

Dear Alvin, I think you were right all along. It feels as if it is time for me to pack up and ship off to somewhere new for a while. Hopefully, to a place where I can be accepted as who I am and not who I am supposed to be. I've made my formal application to UWA today, to do my PHD. I'm working on proposals to Sydney, Melbourne and ANU. I'll need your help with looking for accomodations and advice on living in Australia soon, thanks in advance!

On a separate note, I've taken so much flak for the things I do in my personal life and I think I've had about enough.

My decision to do my Masters has on numerous occasion come under ridicule and denouncement. Truth be told, if someone is willing to hire me to think, research and publish, I'd have thrown all qualifications away and gone to become the writer I've so wanted to be for so long. Sadly, a PHD is an entry qualification for a life as a academic writer and thinker. While being a Masters student does come with many bragging rights, it is also the lowest place to be, academically. I find myself halfway between the stars and the gutter, and everyday is a battle not to fall back into that gutter.

Even simple things like buying a lap-top skin provokes such antagony. How I spend my money is nobody's business but my own. Honestly. If I want to coat my laptop with polytetrafluoroethylene and fry eggs on it in the mid-day sun, then its really my own problem. Giving me grief over such mundane things is seriously a waste of my neural synapses.

Calling me a rich man's son is nothing but a sign of ignorance on my upbringing and background. I was born in a one-room rented flat and lived 16 years in a 4-room flat before moving on to a condo and subsequently a house. I watched my father rise from a factory shop-floor supervisor to GM. I have high expectations to live up to and sometimes I wonder if I'm ever going to make it, to become someone special and worthy of everything I've been given so far.

Blessed are the shallow, for depth they'll never find. I can no longer be the sort of simpleton who lives for himself and cares only about things like drinking and clubbing anymore. I owe a debt to the society that has given me time, money and opportunity to pursue my studies. I intend to pay it back.

Ang Heng

A Little Help

2010-04-16T11:53:00.003+08:00

Yo guys,

I have an assignment coming up based on research on Twitter so I need about 20 ppl to be on my list to proceed. Unfortunately, I have never used Twitter in my entire life so I would really appreciate it if anyone of you using Twitter pls add me so I can get the gist of it.

My email add is the same as my msn so pls add me! Thanks a million!

alonso

SSDD

2010-04-13T17:23:00.006+08:00

Certain observations have annoyed me to the point that I've decided to write a post. (after a long break due to complaints that I'm the only one writing or that my writing cannot be understood by everyone. This of course leads to the question of whether its my fault that I'm the only one writing or that some people cannot understand my writing. I'm sure I'm grammatically correct and logically coherent most of the time.)

Not to digress. I've found it frustrating that my peers have fallen into an intellectual complacency. As young people, we somehow no longer question the things around us or even the point of our own existence. From a global perspective, this is an anomaly. We probably produce the least rebellious (and the dullest) university graduates in the entire world.

Week in week out, the hordes swarm the clubs to dance to the same music and the same beat, in the same manners, for the same reasons. Day in day out, we do the same things and think about the same stuff. We eat the same food at the same places. We do the things which are safe and conventional, acceptable by our conventional friends. Do the youth of today lack intellect or are we really that naive?

It is tempting to believe that entering the workforce enforces a certain mindframe on people, or that 'social engineering' is more rampant in certain professions which require mechanical adherence to process and technicality. That line of thought is an insult to the capacity for adaptation and evolution that is inherent in every one of us, as part of our genetic inheritance.

Most of my friends (I'm proud to say) are smart people. They were bright students in school and they are probably bright people still. However (as Kumar as mentioned), there is a difference between intelligence and intellect. If intelligence is the brain, then intellect is the mind. It is a damned shame when intelligent people lack the intellect to be more critical or even more intellectually adventurous.

Yesterday I had a fantastic conversation with a classmate of mine, an International Relations student from New Zealand (quite kip). She's a big fan of postmodern philosophy, believes in spirituality through yoga and taichi, and she is a vegan on the grounds of animal rights. We were talking about how a fragmented consciousness can be incredibly harmful to a person's sanity, yet oh so important for change and enlightenment. I have a bad feeling that I will never have intellectual conversations like that with my fellow Singaporeans. I have a nagging feeling that I will outgrow this place intellectually. Then what next?

Maybe its a small country syndrome. Everybody has the small town mentality. Similarity for security's sake, and conservative to a fault. Perhaps the biggest flaw here is our incessant desire to be safe, a product of our nanny-state upbringing. What's so interesting about safe?

Ang Heng

Asymmetric Symmetry

2010-03-22T21:56:00.002+08:00

Two images struck me on the way to soccer yesterday. First one: an elderly man leaning on a tree on the road median, along with a walking stick. Waiting to cross the road. Second one: A row of cars stopped at the traffic light of a cross junction, 3 silver, 1 light purple, all new and shiney, stopped neatly in a row, waiting to cross the junction.

While the first image prompted thoughts of humanity and nature and how humans have always been leaning on and reliant on nature for its survival and sanity, the second image spoke volumes of the perversity of mankind and its eternal obsession with symmetry. Left and right, top and bottom, all things with their complementary opposites. (complementary opposites clearly represent an oxymoron representing Man's fear of true difference, this probably warrants an entire post on its own.)

If we could, we'd have turned the Earth into a massive cube.

Because we are unable to do that, we instead turn upon ourselves and try to make everyone around us images of ourselves. The things we cannot understand, we try to rationalise and mould into something we can. It has never occured to any of us that we could change ourselves to suit circumstances, and circumstances were never meant to suit us. If they did, then its called coincidence.

The end result is not the symmetry we desire, but repetition. Each individual thus becomes a fractal of a whole not splintered, but replicated endlessly. Like Poe's dream within a dream, we seek to become a miniature of the world as we understand it through pop culture and new media.

Since the destruction of the self is in effect the destruction of its image, true difference is shunned and discouraged. Who wants to see an image of himself destroyed or disfigured? Social relations then becomes the mutual maintenance of ego's in a bid to protect the self (not social) identity through the status quo.

Ang Heng

Of Love and Other Nasty Stuff

2010-03-20T13:51:00.002+08:00

Supper with Kumar, Teh, Ah du + Meow and Talen. Inevitably, the question "when gao yin?" (when getting married, for the uninitiated) had to come up.

Let's have a pool. Who is going to get married first among us all? Who will produce the very first GMH 2.0? For the sake of a more interested (and less sane) future generation, I hope that happens sometime soon. (doesn't mean i hope for tiao kia though)

Another interesting conversation topic was the important trade-off between "guai guai" (decent) and interesting in a potential date. Having tried interesting twice, I can't help feeling quite shy right now, having been bitten on both occasions. I should follow my father's doctor's advice to find a teacher or a doctor. Guai, smart and caring. Then again, having met several of our moulders of the future, I'm more worried about the potential presence of a guai (weird) factor.

A doctor is a good idea too. (Aside from the aesthetic cool factor of having two Dr Woo's at the same time, yes shallow me) You can get an endless supply of MC's as well as the constant assurance that you are healthy and nothing's wrong with you (such as heart problems, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and any other potential medical nastys that require money-consuming medical check-ups). Doctors are probably caring too.

However, at the end of the day, advice is advice. What we all want is somebody who cares about us and loves us. (plus provides us with good PP, according to du) Life is great when you're single and you can speculate on what you want or what you can have and not having to worry about whether what you have is right for you. If reality hits you, go for supper and check out kips.

Just don't point at one and go "kip!!" as if she can't see you pointing at her.

Ang Heng

A Differance of Difference

2010-03-13T12:20:00.002+08:00

In french, the word difference can mean 'to differ' and 'to defer'. These are both concepts I have wrestled with for far so long and recent developments in my life have brought them to the forefront yet again.

Comments from classmates at a function yesterday has made me realise that I spend a lot of time with the foreign students. Firstly, my fellow Singaporean students asked me where the hell I've been. Secondly, a Chinese student peered at me for 2 whole minutes before asking me, "you're actually Singaporean?". I've known her for almost a year now.

Its not that I've become prissy and decided to shun my fellow Singaporeans. Au contraire, I spend my recreational time with Singaporeans, GMH, BJJ and Taichi cases in point. The point is that when I am in school engaging in intellectual endeavours, I cannot help but feel more comfortable within a more cosmopolitan environment.

It is a fact that Singaporeans are not very accepting of new ideas and that they are allergic to radical ideas. This makes life difficult for a student of post-modern/post-structural/critical thought to seek personal development. How do you explain the fluidity and spontaneity you crave in your daily life? It is as bad as explaining to a linkin park fan the finer points of appreciation for phillip glass or miles davis.

It is difficult to be different here. The tyranny of the masses ensures that you are oppressed, repressed and depressed through constant pressures to conform, be it pressures to engage in mass activities for the sake of fashionability or pressures to keep your more random musings to yourself for fear of incurring the wrath of scorn and rejection. This is no environment for intellectual development.

Life in the academia is no doubt challenging and extremely rewarding. Where else can you spar intellectually and bring up the most radical of ideas? Where else can a refugee from the mainstream not feel alienated?

For the professor who believes that I will make a good economist and this is the sort of work experience that is important for everybody, I'm sorry to report that I am not everybody. I am afraid of losing the spark that drives my curiosity and intellect. For the professor who believes that my gift with rational choice and numbers will serve me well in UC San Diego followed by a future in rational political science, I must still maintain that I live by the pen. Being able to follow rational patterns is a survival instinct honed over the years, not a gift at all. No matter how much I relish the challenge of mathematical formulations, I resent having to use such a beautiful instrument for the crude purposes of intellectual survival.

I believe we are all defering our difference in the hope of finding eventual acceptance. Another professor made an interesting point yesterday, he said that great ideas have tended to come from people in exile. In the highly-connected globalized world of today where concepts of national boundaries have become problematic, one cannot help but feel in exile anywhere at all. Perhaps I do not want to keep myself in my intellectual comfort zone.

I want to be challenged for once.

Ang Heng

A Qualification Of Qualifications

2010-03-04T11:07:00.003+08:00

This blog post will start with 2 stories.

1) An acquaintance has been sitting at home for the past year, trying to get into a particular bank and trying to clear her modules for her degree from MDIS. Her justification is that with her work experience as a teller, that bank should take her in as an executive, degree or not.

2) A particular country in South East Asia has just realised that it needs to boost the productivity of its workforce in order to compete with other Newly Industrialised Economies. The recession has shown just how risky it is to base an economy on exports and services, both procyclical in nature.

This post may sound elitist, but it is not. It is a story of why we must improve ourselves and not let the bigger fish eat us.

It is common in Singapore to lambast people who pursue educational qualifications. Examples: "cert only what, work experience is more important" or "scholar dunno how to do anything one".

Let me qualify some points with regards to education.

Getting a degree is never about the qualification, it is partly about gaining the knowledge learnt in your course and more about being able to handle stress and hard work. Employers want workers are exposed to cutting-edge business thought, as well as workers who have proven themselves capable of hardwork and perseverance.
People who blast scholars are usually at too low a level to understand the things these people do. Higher education trains people for planning and development work, not just ground level labour.
Higher education also exposes you to an intellectually-stimulating environment. I spend my days at ntu debating and intellectually sparring with diplomats, senior military ranking officers and scholars from many different countries. I may be lowest in the pecking order here, but I am learning how to fit into a new pecking order.
This leads to personal development. We must always remember to aspire to be like those who are better than us. By interacting with high-flyers, we network with important people of the future. We also learn how they think and how they work, a tried-and-tested means to success.

So to all my friends who are hard at work pursuing an education, bravo to you. I hope you do well in your academic work and learn all the important soft-skills needed to give you that boost in your future career. The best things in life are always earned through sweat and blood.

Remember that as we grow in age, we must also mature and flower in other ways as well, be it intellect, personality or simply a wider world-view. There is a Chow Yun Fatt phrase my dad always tells me, I'll try to translate it from cantonese below. It is a reminder that short-term pain always leads to long-term gains.

Take a step back, now the sky looks wide and the sea is endless. Persevere a little, and the storm will die down.

Ang Heng/JJ

Of Black Holes And Toilet Bowls

2010-03-01T19:12:00.002+08:00

Best of the Best.

Conversation 1:
Kumar: Mendi, did you know Zhi Xiang got girlfriend already?
Mendi: Waaah.... aaah oooh aaaahhoaraaaahh (incoherent noises due to tau huay still inside mouth)
Kumar: Haah? What did you say?
Mendi: *More of the same*
Mendi: Like this I will go all out this year liao. Must get Kip liao. My plan is on the road liao.

Conversation 2:
Me: The Voluntary Police work pays $3.60 per hour.
Mendi: Wah so little ah, I get at least $10 per hour looh
Me: Its not about the money, its about giving back to society mah
Mendi: But $3.60 per hour is still very little loooh, siao ah..
Me: I already said its not about the money la, its about giving back to society
Mendi: I don't owe anything to society loh, I make my own money one loooh
Me: You think without society, you can still drive your van, earn money, walk around safely in the country meh?
*No further response*

Conversation 3:
Mendi: Don't have girlfriend, you don't feel hungry meeh?
Me: I already had 2 relationships in a row loh, I think its a good time for a break.
Mendi: I am hungry for love and affection loh...

I take back what I said about the toilet paper and Mendi's mouth in HK. He is a toilet bowl, always making gurgling incoherent noises and severely full of it.

Of course, the black hole refers to the enigma which our dear Mendi is so intent on uncovering. Namely, women. Because they end up sucking up all your money (if she's vain), time (if she's demanding), energy (if she's intellectual) and other stuff (if she's hot).

Because when the love goes supernova, you are left with a deep darkness that is the polar opposite of what love was. A darkness which reminds you that everything is a linear journey to its end and whether we do have a choice or not, maybe it was all the illusion of a coincidence.

JJ/Ang Heng

Breaking the monopoly

2010-02-13T14:58:00.004+08:00

ANGHENG SIBEH HENG! Sorry ah! I have to intercept your record breaking consecutive posts on LSKbyGMH to insert my urgent announcement for this festive season=)

I just want everybody who is reading this blog to know that YOU are invited to my house on Sat 20th Feb to bai nian and lau yusheng for a huaty and suun suun year ahead! I'm sure bingtai, mendi and psycho need it most. HAHA!

Please bring your own mandarin oranges and not resort to taking mine and attempting to disguise them like they are your own at the door step horrrr (FMUS2!!). AND wear nice nice ah!

Let me know if you're coming or not by Thursday kay!

HUAT AH!

amendi

Quietly Past The Mark of Youth

2010-02-12T18:33:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I turned 26 amidst a flurry of meetings with my research team and some subtle pressure from my dissertation supervisor, reminding me that time moves in a linear fashion.

It almost did not feel like a birthday, except for that one instance of confusion in the corridor where I was presented with a card, a gift, a gigantic famous amos cookie and a birthday hug from a new-found sister. I appreciated the hug most.

So here I am, past my socially-constructed mark of youth, thrust into a world of future career prospects and annual medical check-ups. (You're supposed to be past your physical prime after 25 and advised to go for check-ups every year, or so I was told) I don't feel my age physically, old only in soul.

2 nights of sleepnessness induced by Bertrand Russel and Karl Marx can only intensify my feeling of emotional age.

To re-affirm my Marxist tendencies, circumstances have proven that religion is truly the opiate of the masses, although the internet has somehow become the new source of class consciousness. Yes, shrill voices of dissent do rise now and again, gently rocking the boat upon which the elite sit. However, I do not forsee much trembling among the ruling classes.

Perhaps one of them will fall into the water, for the sharks to rip apart? Surely the ones who peer over the side and make snide comments about the fish swirling below lose their balance the fastest.

Ang Heng

2010-02-04T14:29:00.004+08:00

Watching Muse live somehow puts an oomph into your mid-week drag. Revolutionary/Marxist undertones, laser show and fantastic musicianship, what else can a rock fan ask for?

Then again, some of the newer songs leave much to be desired. They left me pondering some pretty heavy stuff while I was waiting for the damned song to finish. This is a condensed (and simplified) version of what was going through my head:

The rock star is a real copy of himself. He has ceased to be the rock star the minute the songs have been recorded and released as hits. The records/CDs/mp3's are true copies, duplicated in a studio. However, by going on tours, rehasing the songs life and trying to recreate the "rock star moment" on stage night after night, the rock star has ceased to be himself. He has become a copy of the real, a re-iteration of what it means to be a rock star.

The inspiration is over, the musicianship is a tedious reworking of licks and beats. The only thing real is the occasional ad lib improvisation. Then again, the improvisation was carried out with a deliberate attempt to show that the musician is able to improvise, defeating all purpose of improvisation, since improvisation comes with neither purpose nor deliberation.

Having said all that, it was a great show nonetheless. Music, kips, rock and roll. Rock fans always have it gooood.

As Cypher said in the Matrix: I know this steak doesn't exist, I know that the matrix is telling my brain that it is juicy and succulent. But after nine years, guess what? Ignorance is bliss.

Ang Heng

leileima

2010-01-24T23:48:00.002+08:00

As the first month of 2010 comes to a close, I find myself getting closer and closer to turning 26 with each passing day. No that old, but far from young. I find myself increasingly frustrated by the situation I'm in. So much to do, so much to tell. So precious little time.

I have half a year left before I embark on another new phase in life, another fork in the road is waiting for me. There could not have been any more at stake than this: my youth and energy.

I know I've been convinced that I'll go on to my phd after my masters, but now it seems that the choice is not so simple after all.

It has come to my attention that I know very precious little of the world I find myself working so hard to justify. Yes, going into the working world will grant me that experience from the ground, give me that bit of grit to my academic and intellectual growth. Not to mention financial stability. Importantly, it may just save my sanity.

There is a hole in me. I've always thought doing my phd would give me time to think and figure out what exactly it is that I'm feeling. I find myself becoming incessantly aggressive and debative, fighting in the name of dead men. Dead men who haunt me because of the questions they've forced me to ask of myself.

So much time was spent on existantialist philosophy and post-modern writing, trying to decipher the codes these prophets (or heretics?) spoke in, hoping to find an answer to the intellectual chasm I feel in me. Worse yet, I feel a hunger to fill that hole. There is something I need to say and I don't know how to. The hunger aches most when things stagnate, running is no real cure for it anymore. There never was a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

The way is no longer clear and the person who understood all this betrayed me. Its going to be a long february ahead.

Ang Heng

Demons and Airwaves

2010-01-18T22:32:00.003+08:00

How long does it take for me to drive home from ntu at peak hour? 2 hours.

2 hours of excruciating stop-and-go, not to mention crappy radio advertisements.

Take Amore fitness for example: "go show the men how you can work it" (some fitness event)

Maybe I'm just being sensitive (being in an academic environments where half the girls hold some sort of feminist, neo-marxist ideal), but this is the sort of crap that women seeking emanicipation from a patriachal, engendered society have to put up with. Subtle digs at presupposed female weaknesses and blatant subject positioning in order to maintain a status quo that disadvantages women.

Of course it is sad that many women have come to accept such a status quo and become numbed to the point of apathy, leading to a vicious cycle of self-fulfilling discrimination. It is even worse that many of my fellow men will no doubt disagree with my sympathy for the feminist movement.

However, I do have one key point of contention with regards to feminist discourse: the meaning of the term MCP.

Pigs are rather intelligent.

I'd prefer a break-down to male chauvinist patsy and male chauvinist pansy (using their own lingo). The patsy's are the gullible morons who subscribe to whatever views their fellow in-group happens to subscribe to. The pansy's are the ones who do not dare challenge the blatant fact that half of the world's population faces some sort of discrimination or other every single day.

Definitely, the excuse of one man not being able to make a difference is simply that: an excuse.

For well you know that that its a fool who plays it cool,
By making his world a little colder.

Ang Heng/JJ

Jai guru deva om

2009-12-30T16:24:00.004+08:00

I've got the Beatles' Across The Universe on repeat as 2009 slowly ebbs away. I spent the night on Baudrllard's Simulations and suddenly everything looks different, and yet I know nothing's ever changed.

A new year approaches, to be welcomed, to be ushered in. Yet the funny thing is, we never had a choice whether we wanted a new year to come in or not. A year is nothing more than a convenient measure of a span of time. Time moves on in a linear fashion, whether we 'welcome' it or not. Rather, it should be the new year welcoming us as we move forward. (although there is always an option of not moving forward, that of the termination of consciousness and by virtue of association, existence. I will not waste breath in explaining why consciousness has to be terminated before existence.)

So ever onward, the shackles still dragging on our feet as we shuffle forward. No, 2010 will not be a new year, for every year in existence (past, present of future) is 'new' in the sense that it is unprecedented. It is new to the human experience. At best, 2010 is only new because it is unknown.

Tomorrow, people will count down to the arrival of a new year. But they will have gotten it wrong. By counting down, we're counting the seconds left of the old year. We are chiming the death rattle of a year past and best forgotten (in most instances).

Having said all that, I am excited by the prospect of 2010. I haven't set any resolutions for myself, other than that of having a steely resolve. A resolution of resolve.

No, the world's not going to change, it is Nothing which plays the catalyst of change every single time. Possession does not spark revolution, it is dis-possession that ignites the conflict that boils beneath the surface of every simulation.

Ang Heng

CHRISTMAS PARTY @ LULU'S - 27 Dec '09

2009-12-23T23:40:00.008+08:00

Dear GMH members, here's the tentative proposed menu for the evening. Open for feedback and comments. Otherwise the organising committee will make the call. So yeah, voice out your preferences now now now!

Good Old Garlic Bread and Soup of the Day

a simple Salad

Roast Turkey

Gourmet Sausages

Pork Chops

Pasta

Honey Glazed Ham

Tacos

Grilled Peaches topped with Mascarpone Cheese

Log Cake

*GMH christmas party committee '09*

(in the absence of alvin=)

Disclaimer: The above pictures may not fully and accurately reflect the food that may turn out on the actual day. They will, however, be subjected to the chef's mood and the budget constrain.

"Power comes from the sinews of my bicep!"

2009-12-20T23:35:00.002+08:00

It's been a strange week for me. Elliot Smith said that "happy and sad come in quick succession" but for me they came both at the same time.

Happy was the Hong Kong trip. This was the 5th time I've been to the city, the first being when I was 11 and the rest spread rather evenly over time. Each time I return, it feels like I'm home. Its not just that the place speaks the language that I grew up with, or feeds me with the food I grew up with when Singapore was less sanitized. Its the hustle and bustle of a city truly alive.

This time is different, for the company was sublime (almost). Teh with his GPS satelite uplink, Kumar with his marshalling of the troops, Simon with his immaculately planned itinerary and Mendi with his everlasting mouth. I guess you'll all be amazed that Mendi actually approached a girl and asked her to take a photo with him.

Of course this happened only after some verbal persuasion on my part("Mendi, this is a roll of toilet paper, I use it to wipe my backside but you use it to wipe your mouth. Why? because your mouth isn't any different from my backside)and great stategizing from everyone else.

I should also mention that this trip spawned a whole new set of trademarks. "I am very tired, my leg is calling a day", "My social very good one loh!", "Orh! AH!". I'm sure Kumar can fill in with those I don't remember and the rest of you can guess who came up with all those trademarks.

Staying in the same room as teh and mendi can kill you with laughter. All in all, I'd say this was a pretty steadip travelling crew. But my part of the trip was cut short by my grandfather's funeral, so I guess there has to be another post documenting the parts of the trip where I wasn't there. It goes without saying that I miss Hong Kong and the familiarity I feel with this particular city. I miss the brisk winter wind, with its scent of rain and excitement.

The passing of my grandfather was no doubt a sad occasion. He led a hard life and he deserves his rest now, no matter how much we wish his life could have been better. It has also put religion on my mind. I am increasingly intrigued by the way in which my philosophical standings (I'm Postmodern in that respect) have begun to be integrated with my religious beliefs (Mahayana Buddhism). It looks like the only way for me to attain my eventual enlightenment lies in introspection. Rituals and writing can only guide anyone this far, I must experience and find my own understanding of my existence and my eventual demise.

Ang Heng

If you are my friend, please read...

2009-12-13T21:52:00.000+08:00

Hi,

It has been a long time since I blog. This is a post dedicated to my friends, including GMH members, SMU friends, Army friends...

I know I have not been joining you guys on any of the activities these few months. Yes… I have turn everyone off by rejecting all your invitations lately (Not only GMH members, even my Uni friends and my army friends).

Before I start, just want to tell you, YES, for all the facebook comments, I am ATTACHED.

But it is not the main reason why I have not been able to make time for any of you, my friends.

I am also working very hard at work. Have been working most of my Saturdays. BUT it is definitely NOT about climbing up the corporate ladder. Seriously, in my department, I don’t see a ladder. There are only 3 steps. And if the people ahead of me do not shift, I am stuck. However, the reason I work so hard is because I want to learn more and that I want to be responsible to what I am doing. You know, I even ask for projects. And furthermore, in Ops, my growth is limited so I need to initiate to be able to learn more. No doubt this adds to my stress level at times. But at least, I feel like I am using my brains.

And if you know me, I’ve got many other problems too (things I cannot say here). For this, it’s the MOST STRESSFUL. But there is nothing much I can do other than pray or find ways to earn more.

Nevertheless, the good news is that I am attached. And for most of my free time, I am spending my time with her. Haha. And since it is in the initial stage, I don’t think I should bring her to meet my friends yet. So please be patient and don’t ask anything more.

All in all, thanks for your care and concern.

As for facebook, I am keeping it as complicated cause I want our relationship to be profession when we are at work. We want to keep it private and not let any of our colleagues knows. Nevertheless, some of them have already guessed it. But still, if you are my colleague and you know already, pls shut up/keep quiet about it.

That’s all I am saying. My friends, I really do want to meet you but time does not permit me to do it. I am working hard for my life and for her. So I just hope for your blessing and understanding.

Thanks in advance.

Blackburn

A Startling, Hilarious, Random Discovery...

2009-12-01T15:49:00.002+08:00

Hi guys,

I was randomly looking thru facebook and stumbled upon Jiali's profile. Guess who I saw? Sibei tisiao la..Memories come flooding back. You will never believe how the skeletons in the closet always have a way of forcing themselves out..hahaha..

There it was, the unmistakable curry pok hair and the endless legs. Yup u guessed it, the lao hiao court clique photos. Apparently, I'm guessing Jiali's Bf is in the navy and his entire clique is there. I almost forgot what they looked like.

So guys, if you want a trip down memory lane go check it out. And Jiali if you are reading this, please ask your bf to help me get the name of his friend who snaps like Mr Tong at absolutely nothing. If he doesn't get help, sooner or later we will get another Virginia Tech massacre, parang-style. Tell your bf to stay away from him or end up a dead charlatan.

Happy holidays guys!

alonso

Tractor Beams and Force Fields

2009-11-24T18:55:00.002+08:00

An advertisement on Tv has seriously irked me. One word: ESPN.

Dude goes into bar, sees a bunch of cool people. Dude tries to join the group, but is blocked by some kind of invisible force field. Dude checks out tv showing some ESPN programme. Bunch of numbers goes into dude. Dude is pulled across force-field by some kind of tractor-beam, bar-stool and all. Brief orgasmic moment while transcending force field. Dude fits into group. Happily. Ever. After.

You don't need to be a neo-marxist sociologist to know that tv is telling you that tv will help you fit into society.

Nevermind that you will lose all individuality, or that society will leave its mark (somewhere between your thumb and index finger) on you like the way they stamp the pigs in the abbatoir. Nevermind that tv represents the vested interests of the rich and the famous.

What offends me the most is the audacity to portray this blatant socialization process on the medium of socialization itself. Sometimes I wonder what they take us for.

Be it apathy or stupidity, I beg to differ.

Ang Heng

Cosmopolitan my foot

2009-11-19T22:53:00.002+08:00

What some singaporean idiot said to my norwegian friend, having chanced upon him waiting for his friend outside zouk: "why don't you take that cab there and go back to wherever you came from?" As usual, there are stories aplenty, during many a bus ride, about the less-than-welcome attitude my fellow countrymen take towards these 'ousiders' whom I have come to identify more with than the aforementioned countrymen.

We can be a curiously xenophobic bunch of morons at times. I'm not saying that I haven't been guilty of some bias either, especially with respect to certain nationalities (note: nationality, not ethnicity), but at least I practise some diplomacy and respect everyone's right to a sense of dignity.

Do what you want, just don't harm anyone else in the process. You can be whatever you want to be, just don't go round harming anyone else physically, emotionally or psychologically in the process. My liberal tendencies may have become jaded over time, but there is at least a sense of decency left somewhere in me to respect js mill's mantra. I wouldn't use the word decent in the same sentence as some of the people I see around me.

Its a sad thing when civil society loses its civility. No wonder the courtesy lion had to come out of retirement.

Ang Heng

-Oh yeah alvin: i may be joining you in australia next year for my post-grad studies, but i still don't know enough about an australian post-graduate education. you got any websites or any other source of information you can recommend? For now i'm aiming for anu or else the lse in london, but i'm open to any other good options.

Soundbyte

2009-11-14T03:17:00.003+08:00

Anyone can achieve their fullest potential
Who we are might be predetermined
but the path we follow is always of our own choosing
We should never allow our fears or the expectations of others to set the frontiers of our destiny
Your destiny can't be changed, but it can be challenged
Every man is born of many men
but dies a single one.

Semper Fidelis - "Always Faithful"

To the greatest performer who ever graced the stage

2009-11-11T18:36:00.011+08:00

Hi guys,

After watching 'This is it', I have the impulse of posting a couple of videos in memory of the best dancer the world will ever know. Ignore all the tabloid junkies and just watching the man on stage is a priviledge itself.

Bye MJ, we're truly blessed to be the generation that saw you at your peak. Something our children will never be able to proclaim. I'm glad to have been to both your concerts and saw u perform in the flesh, otherwise it will be one of the biggest regrets of my life. The memories will forever be embedded in me. I can still see 55,000 ppl on their feet and the 9-year old me screaming my lungs off to 'Smooth Criminal'. That image and atmosphere will never leave me.

For fellow fans, pls go watch the movie. At 50, he could outdance all the muscular 18 yr olds dancers in the back ground. Go see wat I mean. you wont regret and they even give u a poster that u can pin on the wall. I had absolutely no doubt that it would have been an awesome concert.

So here are the 3 videos that, in my opinion, are the best ones I could find. Remember to watch it in HD to enjoy the full glory.

The world will never see such a performer ever again.

To MJ, I promise to lay flowers at your burial site someday, because I'm a huge fan, and simply because you were the greatest.

alvin

A Study In Elegance

2009-10-24T00:22:00.002+08:00

Some weeks back, I commented on a Malaysian film which I enjoyed immensely. Today I will do the patriotic thing.

If you haven't seen Blue Mansion, please do yourself the favour of watching it. I have thus far yet to see a Singaporean film as sophisticated, elegant or beautiful as this. Great script, fantastic acting, superb dialogue and not to forget the cinematography. What more can you ask of a film? Most importantly, the score provided the elegance and the mystic, steeped within a beautiful rustic set. A true tragedy of Shakespearan proportions enshrined within the guise of a black comedy.

The best thing is, it reminds me of how much I love mysteries, whether in film or literature. The constant suspense and all the sordid secrets that emerge as layer after layer of plot is unravelled.

I remember Miss Thoo making us read Agatha Christie when I was in Secondary One. Although everyone hated it, I secretly enjoyed reading the Miss Marple novel I happened to have picked. That led to Hercule Poirot and a whole range of witty and cynical characters. The murders in the Rue Morgue also showed me that Edgar Allan Poe was a mystery writer through and through. Sherlock just seemed so dull next to all this.

There is one book which I have recommended many to read, Honor Thy Father by Lesley Glaister. This is the sort of unravelling that I witnessed in Blue Mansion, the same shiver down your spine as you get to the dark, bitter core of the mystery. That moment when you realise that all criminals pale in comparison to the things that dwell within the human psyche.

deja vu part 2

2009-10-15T23:30:00.002+08:00

What if you were wronged by someone a long time ago, say 7 years. Its a long enough time. Today you meet someone who resembles that figure from the past, to the T. Of course the difference is that the you of today is totally different from the you of the past, the one who always got rejected and thrown about as a joke. How do you not treat this new person indifferently?

What if every time you see this person, you get that awful taste at the back of your throat, that horrid reminder of dejection? Worst still, if you catch yourself giving preferential treatment (positive or negative) to this person because of your own contextual bias, what does that say about you?

Youth may be a curse, but age is surely a slow-acting poison, the kind that kills you by accumulation.

Ang Heng

Finally a response...

2009-10-05T18:47:00.005+08:00

It was the reply I half expected, but at least I got a Senior Correspondent to admit he made a mistake.

alvin

~ MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL ~

2009-10-03T17:30:00.000+08:00

DATE: 3 October 2009, Saturday

TIME: 6pm till late

VENUE: Bishan Park (Open to ideas!)

BYOL

coming?

*amendi*

An article that made my blood boil..

2009-10-03T15:41:00.003+08:00

Hi guys,

I was flipping through today's straits times and got a rude shock on PAGE 2 of the PRIME SECTION. If any of you haven't read it yet, I STRONGLY recommend u to go read it. The journalist wrote a 3000 word article which offers no alternatives watsoever and basically told us to bite the bullet and 'just pay'.

I have never replied to a newspaper in my life and this article got my virgin reply. Immediately I emailed that journalist on what I felt. I could have used a harsher tone and language but figured if it wasn't subtle enough he may not read it at all.

Anyway I've already sent the email. It is below. If anyone clearly feels that same way as me I strongly urge you to do the same. Of course if you don't feel a thing and will subcribe anyway, ignore this post.

Dear Sir,

With all due respect, in times like these, asking the general public to 'bite the bullet' and subcribe to the new service for football fans is hardly the objective opinion we would come to expect from an article in the most established print media in Singapore. Why not address the issues of the common football fan and offer alternatives rather than telling people the most obvious thing of 'just paying'?

Just to name a few, giving us a list of coffeeshops which offers screenings or advising the 'poor' football fan to pay a visit to a fellow fan who can well afford to host a couple of people in their homes to cheer on their favourite teams.

A 3000 word article in page 2 of the 'prime' section that offers absolutely no insight on the thoughts of the common folks, no alternatives whatsoever other than stating the obvious of 'biting the bullet' is shocking.

You do realise that such an article serves only one purpose of feeding the greed of the parties involved in making sport only accessible to the rich. The last thing we want is for the average fan to just bite the bullet and keep paying exorbitant subscription fees through their noses with little knowledge that doing so is simply depriving the poor folks from access to future sports events.

It is indeed regrettable that your article has just about summed up what is wrong with society today, encouraging people to submit to what is thrown at us, continue down the slippery slope of increasing fees just to watch a sport that is supposed to be accessible to everyone.

And Sir, again with all due respect, not subcribing does not mean we are giving up football, it means we are not giving in to the people who think they own football and try to suck every penny out of the common folk. There are plenty of alternatives of watching football without 'biting the bullet' which you clearly ommitted, maybe due to the fact that you may have thought it was too obvious to point out, or simply ignorant of.

I do not mean to offend, just merely voicing the opinions of the people sitting in the same office as myself and wondering almost in unison, on how on earth you managed to equate not subscribing to giving up football in page 2 of the nation's top newspaper.

Cheers mate. Have a good weekend :)

regards,
alvin

Mid-Week Rantings

2009-09-23T22:56:00.003+08:00

What a whirlwind of a week this is turning out to be. I'm finding myself staying in school from morning til night for wed, thur and possibly even friday. What makes it worse is the timebomb that is slowly ticking at the back of my mind, aka assignments and research papers due. Having said that, I have found some time amidst all this for some introspection.

Tonight I watched Sepet during research methods class. Its basically a love story between a malay girl and a chinese boy in Malaysia. While the topic it deals with is controversial enough, I find myself increasingly shocked by the simple beauty and elegance in a film made in Malaysia. I never thought I'd find myself impressed by Malaysian or Singaporean fim-making. But here I am, in RSIS, being taught several whole new lessons, the least of which is never to underestimate the creative prowess of very backward countries.

It is ironic, isn't it? That the very institutions (such as religion, education, work, yadda yadda yadda) that promise to unite us, have driven us all further apart than before. We have all been categorized and compartmentalized into neat little identities which we subscribe to, with much zeal. The minute we take up that identity, then we cease to see ourselves as humans, but you, me and mrs jones. The minute we take up a socially defined identity, we find ourselves at odds with those who do not share this identity with us. And the thought of this possibility surely provides some discomfort.

I think the problem is with intentions. Every time we create an institution with the intention of doing something, we end up failing to do what we started out to do in the first place. Remember the IMF, Durai or Venerable Ming Yi? In stark contrast, when we try to suppress something that emerged universally, it comes back stronger than before. My favourite example is capitalism. Plainly put, a drive for money and success has turned Marxism on its head and given democracy a bad name in some places. Yet, it is so unerringly universal that no country in the world can escape from capitalism anymore.

Doesn't necessarily mean its a good thing, but it sure as hell is super consistent. Plainly put, ego and hubris have resulted in the humongous error of thinking that everything which we create and which we validate for each other is correct. Another seminal film, The Fight Club, proclaims that we made God in the image of our fathers. Yes, there may be divinity, but we have certainly perverted it with the centuries of bias in our construction of religion. Man is the architect of his own demise after all.

So Adam Smith was a political philosopher after all. The invisible hand is still the predominant force for organising society, whether economically or socially. Importantly, where do we go from here? Are we ready to let go of all the preconceived notions of identity we have found ourselves clinging on to for safety and security?

Are we ready to question every teaching, every notion that is passed on to us, just as Buddha demanded in the Dharmmapadda? (Yes, question even his own teachings, that was his mantra and a damn good one if you ask me.)

Ang Heng

Harmless Reptile I Hope..

2009-09-18T18:14:00.002+08:00

A Glimpse from Boomerang Road..

2009-09-18T17:54:00.005+08:00

Hi guys, this is the long awaited pics of my dwelling. Sorry it took so long. damn busy with stuff.. The leaves are falling off for new flowers to bloom so when that happens i'll take more photos.

Those are the sights that greets me everyday when I wake up. I just realised my garden is a mini zoo. Plenty of wildlife. Can somebody pls identify the reptile in the pic? its damn big but not aggressive at all. I reckon there are at least 5 of those in my garden now.

Yes, we have to take out the thrash every week. haha.. ok that's all for now, next time I'll upload Uni pics..

Enjoy ur weekends!~

God Bless,

alvin

9/11 - 8 Years On

2009-09-13T03:22:00.002+08:00

Good day to all,

Friday marked the 8th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks that physically took place in the U.S., but mentally and emotionally within all of us. The terrifying events of that fateful day and their repercussions forever changed the lives of people the world over, including ours; never again would we walk down the street thinking and feeling nothing in our world has really changed.

9/11 had a profoundly huge impact on me as a young individual developing his intellectual and cognitive identity in a personal and socio-cultural aspect. I can say I have drawn plenty of lessons from it and have gradually developed insights - I continue to do so today - which have thus far served me well. This may seem pretty pointless or abstract to some of you, but my point is that we must never forget an event like 9/11 for the human tragedy it still is and the significant mark it has made on the history of mankind.

It literally banged home some thought-provoking points regarding our existence in this hyper-informationised digital global village where alot of paradoxes and indiosyncrasies of life have surfaced: how we as a people are so similar and yet so different at times; how people act like they're on the cutting-edge and have it all together when they have no clue what they're doing or how to handle the fast-paced changes in their hectic lives; how we embrace the flashing-lights of materialism and consumerism and yet are slaves to it. Notions of tolerance and understanding, ignorance, bigotry, racism, and the place of religion in public and private spheres are under the microscope more than ever.

I'm starting to sound like Angheng in one of his sibeh cheem posts, so I'll stop here. But I ask you to take a moment - especially if you have not already -to remember 9/11 however you interpret it, and realise that there is an extremely high price to pay for Freedom, in any of its various incarnations.

Kumar

A conversation I had.

2009-09-02T23:34:00.002+08:00

A conversation I had on MSN with my friend. It summarised the problems I have now and the frustration I face.

Note: Since this is a MSN conversation, it is really full of BAD ENGLISH. So if you are really hooked by the recent English we have going on in the blog. Please stop reading now.

“Blackburn aka Terence says:
family problem + work problem + Her = frustration
which one u wanna hear?

Friend Says:
whichever is bothering u most

Blackburn aka Terence says:
it is family actually
u see... i am like the guy in the house now. I am much more patient than both my sisters
but nowadays my parents and my sister keep quarreling
then i am always stuck in the middle
its hard for me
then i understand my parents are old and tired
so i kept thinking if i should help them in their business
should i just quit and help them...
it makes me feel like I am not doing the right thing when they are so busy and i am not helping them.
like i am a bad son
........that the end of the family problem

as for work... I feel torn too... cos i work with 2 seniors. A and B. A is the one that taught me at the start, but due to her position, she is not free or around most of her time. So I end up looking for B when i have problems. So every time, i feel torn between them when they do things differently. A is more strict. B is more relax
I try my best to follow A. But working as a team, I'll need B help too. Thus, it end up a bit political.
Really sucks. But I guess for this, i must really learn to cope with these issues

Friend Says:
yaa i guess it is unavoidable in the working world

Blackburn aka Terence says:
I believe i can handle it and become a better person
at least in the working world.
as for her....
i just feel that it is coming back
actually it was fine all along, as in we will go lunch in groups and stuff
and at those time, i know i like her but i really try to make it friendly
but then there was once when I have lunch alone with her.
IT WAS REALLY GOOD.
The problem of like having no topic is like gone, the problem of us having no chemistry does not seem to be true
I really felt happy
and as u know, we volunteered in the same group that day
after that day, i know I am getting the feeling back
but i tried to hide it
after the lunch, it seem impossible.
then even today, we have a bowling competition by our employer. Randomly we were chosen in the same team.
All in all, it was too good. too fun. too happy. And the feeling just HAD to be there.
and then i started to get worry to get scared. worry and scared of what is not even happening
I worry that if we get together, we may break up
i worry that if i ask her out, and she reject me, I may never dare to ask her again
i scared of what is not happening
or what could happen if all the "what if" happens. But I really feel like asking her out
but going forward, i realise the problem with me is that I am worried abt the "what if" in relationship. That is y i pressure myself to find the ONE and not anyone else.
and that is y I always end up giving up something that is almost there
hor that all the "almost there" is not successful.”

That is the end of the summary in an edited weird MSN format.

Life is never smooth sailing, try to think on bright side. - An advice from me to myself

Blackburn

2009-09-01T14:43:00.002+08:00

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY

BINGTAI!

PLEASE LOSE WEIGHT AND STOP UR NONSENSE!

HAHAHAA!

*UR SECRET ADMIRER*

Reincarnate now.

2009-08-30T23:24:00.001+08:00

There are two types of running, as far as I'm concerned.

The first type is a form of escapism. You go out there and run as if the hounds of hell were after you. You don't stop until you're exhausted or something gives way, or sometimes both. That was what I used to do, I ran to forget and I ran to see when I'd break.

Lately, I've felt a change come over me. I'm starting to veer towards my second type of running. All you gotta do is set a target, then you chase it. Once you get it, you set a faster pace, longer distance and maybe more torturous route. Its all about looking forward. Its all about trying to break yourself in different ways each time, so that you come out of it a new man again.

I like this style more now. You gotta imagine someone you don't like, imagine he's running faster than you and you gotta beat him. You gotta outrun him, go faster than him and eventually, go faster than yourself.

I guess Newton's law has a part to play in my new philosophy to life now, ironically. F = MA. Achieve critical mass (be it physical or intellectual), keep accelerating, don't stop. Eventually, you'll be a force to be reckoned with.

Ang Heng

$1 Bread Loaf, Anyone?

2009-08-19T11:44:00.001+08:00

Hi guys,

Firstly forgive me for not providing an update sooner. Setting up internet here is proving to be a test of patience and dexterity. I’ve just got a technician to set up a landline in my room and have applied for the internet. Unlike back in ‘you know where’, they can actually send a technician to set up everything for u. But over here they will send the modem to u and u are expected to call them to set it up. Thus, I haven’t been online at night. My biological clock is tuned to fit the sunrise and now I sleep at 10pm (which is 8pm for u guys) and wake up at 7am (5am).

How is everyone? Glad the blog is more active as usual with ang heng’s posts filled with technical terms. JJ we not Profs la can put in more layman terms anot. Other than the usual posters, where is ppl like Bing, psycho, teh, he quan, ben, mandy, du, and the rest? Tapi all post one-liners very happening man, gives me wonderful insights to your lives.

With alonso’s departure from pool, it emphasizes the need to move on in life and open a new chapter. I’m sad for pool, but elated for him. Haha.. see the parallels I’m drawing with my departure anot? Kong qiu la. Glad that u guys finally are going back ‘home’ to St wilfrid. Remember to jio matthew, tim and desmond. I too have found my soccer home at a field so surreal we have parrots grazing while we play. Pls come visit me here I guarantee the soccer experience of a lifetime. Even mandy can play non-stop for 4 hours in this weather where there is not a single drop of sweat nor smell on my shirt after 2 hours.

Over here they organised a NDP live telecast in a theatre where all Singaporeans are invited to watch the NDP live and say the pledge. Quite interesting. Over the course of my stay here, I met plenty of Singaporeans and Malaysians residing here long term. The numbers were much more than I expected. Btw my pastor looks like zidane. Haha..

Life in school is getting routine. Just did a project with a Sharapova lookalike who was a professional tennis player. Will show u guys photos, taller than me . haha..An interesting story to share is that the gauge of how liberal it is here can be exemplified by my female lecturer. In an audience of 400, and the course was film and television studies, she said the ‘F’ word in the mic when the film she was showing stopped halfway. Everyone laughed.

Food here is expensive, but groceries are a steal. I bought a 700mg loaf of bread for $1. For the uninitiated its twice the amount of gardenia bread and about 15-20 slices. The whole bbq chicken like those u find in cold storage is $8 and its huge. The best part is in cold storage u get bones on the inside, but here they actually put delicious filling!~ And u guys knows me right, if I say its filling means its filling.haha.. On the Kt side, the KFC here sux to the max. Expensive, extremely small and the whipped potato is dry and tasteless. Worst part is, u have to pay for tomato sauce! Siao ah.

Subway here is solid too, $7 for a footlong, cheaper a bit. The best is the movie tix. Coz of my concession, I watched District 9 (PETER JACKSON) for $6.50 on a weekend. And I dunno why, I think the ppl here dun like movies coz it was the opening day and the theatre was 30% filled.

On a more sombre note, anyone can update me on the 2 students killed by the train. It is damn near the place where I used to eat lunch everyday beside school. News feeds are scarce and details are sketchy so I’d appreciate it if got any interesting news to share. Btw I heard PS3 slim released liao and PS3 normal ones are cheaper now. All go buy liao mai tu!~~

K guys got to return to my assignments liao. Take care to all of u guys. I’m gonna join an unconventional CCA here if I mention u won’t believe it. It was too tempting and is a chance of a lifetime coz they don’t have it in Singapore. So stay tuned. Pics will be up in 2 weeks once my home internet is up. Send my regards to the sporty lao kip at st wilfrid and the dessert stall at Boon keng.

Till then, G’DAY MATES~!

alvin

Moral High Ground

2009-08-19T00:49:00.002+08:00

Our conversation over supper tonight (or last night) was quite stimulating. To say the least. 3 Words: Moral High Ground.

There is a stark difference between saying something and being something. Language is already a first degree deference from the subject. The more we talk about something, the further we are from the reality of it. That is po-mo mumbo jumbo I know, but its true. This is why we talk isn't it? To vent out emotions which cannot be healthy if left unchecked. If we want less decadence, we must talk about decadence a great deal more, to internalise it into the social system and to innoculate ourselves by exposure to the subject. Victorian society is proof of that.

The biggest misunderstanding of GMH is underestimating our ability to codeswitch. We are (or most of us are, at any rate) able to switch our behaviour between differing circumstances because of our (again, most of our) inherently mutli-faceted personalities. Want to di siao? No problem. Want to talk sense? Why not? Intellectual conversation? Bring it on.

Remember, culture has a tendency to permeate society from high (brow) to low (brow). Ideologies arise from the lower masses, only to gain traction with the middle and upper classes at a later date. Not to forget, change is frequently a result of the dialectic. So, we must be aware of both below and above, by straddling the middle. I, for one, am trying not to allow myself to be enclosed within one mind-frame at a time. Its not an easy thing to do, but effort (not condemnation) is good enough.

Empathy (and verstehen) is the one thing that makes us human.

Ang Heng

On a long and lonesome highway east of Omaha.

2009-08-15T03:23:00.002+08:00

Driving down the highway at 120kph, with the sweet, sweet sounds of a fender telecaster thinline fed through an ibanez tube-screamer and hooked up to a marshall stack.

When was the last time you felt as if you didn't have to give a piss about the state of the world (and its unfortunate inhabitants) today?

I have never been able to lose myself to the moment (In fact, I find it hard to lose myself to or in anything non-geographic in nature). In consolation, I have always been able to find myself in the moment. Then lose the moment in its entirety. Thus I spend too much time being mindful of my consciousness, hoping that when the moment comes, I can appreciate it beyond its descriptive value as a measure of time past.

Of course, being overly conscious of the self accentuates that inability to lose yourself, even if it may allow deeper introspection at that crucial moment.

So I had to write, before I lose the moment again. That feeling of having all arrows point forward and not having to care about the rear-view mirror because it hardly differed from the front, yet it had to defer to the front. The feeling of speed, freedom and that slight tugging on your heart every time that telecaster hit a high note and faded off with whammy-induced reverb.

I had to write because I wanted to turn the moment into momentum.

Ang Heng

NEW BALL!

2009-08-09T00:34:00.003+08:00

In the loving memory of

yet another ball to kena the chee-ba-boom treatment,

we welcome this pweety little thing into our family!

hehhh! pretty boh? $22 nia, I used it today at The Cage liao..

kayy, now jobless abit eng, cya guys tmr!

HAPPY NATIONAL DAY!

HUAT AH!

*amendi*

The nightmare has started...

2009-08-06T23:10:00.002+08:00

Hello,

It has been a long time since I wrote anything for the blog. Cos I’m dead tired, emotionally and physically. Too many things have happened since I started work. It was supposed to be good. And initially it was good until I had too many “complications” in my mind.

Before I start on the complications, I just want to thank Amendi for recovering my beautiful “EMO” posts.

And also to Alonso, glad you have found some light in your life now. Enjoy while you can. Seriously I thought of going over to, working has drained the soul out of my life. Sometimes I really have the Deja Vu feel that you talk about. Am I trying too hard to prove myself? Nowadays, I sleep on the bus to work, on the bus back home. Reach home, I also sleep at 11+. Very tired. And I am only into my 2nd month at work, how am I going to Tahan the next 10 mths?

Many of you must be thinking, this is life, this is work! So bear with it! But is this really the life that we study so hard for and work so hard towards? Anyway, I am not the kind of guy that call it quits so early on. But there is other stuff, other complications that is draining me...

Firstly, I am just starting to have my first-hand politics. Talk too much – kana complain. Listen to music with ear piece on – ALSO cannot (Whenever I listen, I am quiet k? – Get the irony). Furthermore, the songs I listen to are Linkin Park Songs, Justin Timberlake Songs and Other R&B hip hop songs and THEY EXPECT ME TO NOT USE EAR PIECE. I think the fact that I am using ear piece is that I am just being considerate! The next worse thing is that I am sitting next to the director office and in front of the compliance team. Whatever I do, sure kana backstab by people. The fact is I already did not use the internet for personal stuff (other than a particular Friday searching for movie – And Kana Seen by my “Xiao-Lao-Ban” using it, Never use it for any personal use) and just trying my best to enjoy DOING THE SAME WORK OVER AND OVER AGAIN. And still I kana complained. Laugh too loud also cannot. Too restrictive. Not use to it.

Secondly, I worked 25 hrs of FOC OT for my company last month. If I am paid, I got nothing to say. BUT IT IS ALL FOC!

Before I end, I hope to meet up with GMH guys soon! And my army friends too! The only group of friends whom I think really knows me. As well as my bestie!

Ps. Sorry for all the wrong use of English words and sentence structure. Pls bear with it.

Blackburn

Viva La Revol-ve-ution!

2009-08-01T01:39:00.004+08:00

You know Singapore is a damn small country when you get deja vu frequently.

First was watching movies. For some reason, walking down the row of cinemas, each with their digital displays announcing the title of the movie, reminds me of a dream I've had before. Then again, like any theatre of war, cinemas today vary only in the differing brands of sex and violence they are serving.

Second time was my lecture at rsis. I kept getting this strange feeling I've seen these people before, been in that lecture before, and studied the same stuff before. However, there may be a logical explanation for this. Any graduate of the social sciences will tell you that a lecture on research methods is bound to bring on deja vu.

I remember a scene in the matrix. The one with the black cat, and with keanu reeves muttering 'deja vu' (whoa, stoic as ever). An omen of change to come? I don't believe in omens. The simulacrum? Maybe. A copy of a copy may just become truth and reality. Where am I going with this? I don't know. They say hell is repetition. I think repetition is hell. All I know is that 'everyday is exactly the same' and it is the conflict from the breaking of the cycle that change begins.

Then again, this could all just be the result of 1000 pages of readings a week and that constant ghost of a nagging at the back of my head, telling me to frigging get my act (and dissertation topic) together. Ever poked a scab and felt good everytime you felt that little numbing pain? Now blow that up a thousand folds and welcome to my world. I love what I'm doing, but it is accompanied by the numbing sort of fatigue at the end of each day. Reading the papers in the morning is a whole new sensation now.

I don't know how this got started, but I know exactly how it will end.

Ang Heng

ST WILFRED HERE WE COMEEEE!!!

2009-07-26T20:35:00.004+08:00

Hello peeps!

After months of searching for steadip courts to play, from Hougang to Sembawang to Toa Payoh... FINALLYYYYYYY..........................

I'VE BOOKED ST WILFRED TO MAKE OUR MUCH AWAITED COMEBACK!!

It's still $23.20 per 2 hr slot=)

PLEASE BLOCK OUT THESE DATES YA.. THANKS!!

SUNDAY, 16 AUGUST 2009

1pm-3pm FIELD 3

-----

SUNDAY, 23 AUGUST 2009

1pm-3pm FIELD 3

-----

SUNDAY, 30 AUGUST 2009

1pm-3pm FIELD 3

-----

reply for your attendance! TIA!

Organiser for August

*amendi*

From Brisbane, with love

2009-07-16T21:04:00.002+08:00

First of all,

I really wish to thank Binghan, Amendi, Psycho and lulu for making the effort to come all the way to the airport to send me off. I was really touched and surprised u guys managed to make it. Especially those workin and studying..thank you guys, I really appreciated it. Hope the Crystal Jade Dinner was good enough for you guys..haha.. first time I feel the power of a credit card..

Before I go further , I would like to thank mandy, teh, ah du, talen, edward, benny for sending me well wishes before I left. Thank you so much and hope u understand that I had too much things on my mind to reply. So sorry and thanks a million for all your well wishes! those at the airport can vouch I almost missed my flight.haha..too teary farewell..haha..

Thanks puiwen,kz,cheryl for last min try to organise supper the last night..next time u all come here I treat u..haha..

Jun Jie and Nanba thanks for the msg before u left..hope u guys had a great time at redang..next stop Great barrier reef liao..

its winter now. when u go out on the streets its like ppl blowing aircon to ur face. its that cold.. but the sun is so glaring that you can get sunburnt..haha..sunburnt in winter...sounds funny right? its dark at 430pm and bright at 5am.

the ppl here are super frenly. no racism stuff or either that they hide it too well..many asians are here but the best thing about it is that its nice and quiet and peaceful..

the uni is like buildings in a park. with lakes and birds roaming in the middle..I can sit by the lake all day and look at the swans swimming..haha..

At night u can see the stars very clearly. however not the milky way yet, i'm still lookin out for it. i'll post pics once i can..can picture myself working here for the next 10 yrs liao..haha..kong qiu..

As some of u might know I took a great risk in not securing accommodation before i came here. But by god's grace I found a beautiful place.

Its 5 min walk to Uni and amenities. Its a landed property extremely cozy house, nice and quiet. The owner is a 70 yr old man who lives alone, Christian and is a retired lecturer at the University. He is still an honarary member there! all for 200a week! which means split with my fren $100 a week! compared to ppl paying $200 plus person! I really thank god for this. How many ppl can say that they secured accommodation the 2nd day of touching down at a landed property no less!

Only Kt is if u guys come there won't be space for u. so no choice.haha.I met jack and his gf today and he brought me grocery shopping and we ate at a super nice Jap place. next time bring u guys there. the portion is huge!he is coming back liao but the fun thing is that he is going skydiving with his gf this sat! cool boh!?

After dinner he went to play soccer in the super cold weather. Wanted to join him but better wait for parents to go back first haha..so my debut is going to be this sunday.

I'm stayin in the hotel now and its alright. I stayed one night at a serviced apartment and it was the best place i ever stayed in. Kt is the cost so we only stayed one night.

I really wish you guys will come find me on the holidays. I just found out holidays will be in NOV to FEB so pls come ..can book now~~! haha..ok i gtg..take care everyone and thanks for all your well wishes and prayers.

Ill post pics and update when and if i can.

god bless,
alvin

A Tug at the Heart-Strings...

2009-07-13T18:52:00.002+08:00

Disclaimer: this is gonna be a lengthy post filled with grammatical and spelling errors to get my thoughts out as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Two and a half decades is too long for anyone to be stuck at a certain red dot. It’s stifling and suffocating to say the least. How many more two and a half decades does a person have? In MJ’s case, just 2. And I’m already halfway there.

I really really really wish to be like the majority, be safe and secure for the rest of my life, leading a monotonous life being fully contented knowing what tomorrow will bring. Most people hate changes, they fear stepping out of their comfort zones. Thus they force themselves to be contented and happy, to the point of not knowing what happiness is about any more.

That really scares me. A lot.

I’m extremely tired and weary about waking up to the same surroundings, eating the same food, seeing the same ppl over and over and over again. When I was in NS, I promised myself never to find myself in the same situation where I simply go through the motions day after day, night after night, to the point of losing track of time. When I wake up, I hear the same birds chirping and crows crowing amid the backdrop of crowd chatter and constant drilling and cars driving past. Its like time has stood still and I’m trying to break free. As much as we detest change, we need it to keep things fresh and survive. If not, we are as good as brain dead.

The decision to leave was, at the beginning, very difficult as my ‘Typical Singaporean Mindset’ kicked in. Will it be safe? Racism? Friends? What if this and wat if that? Immediately I thought of NS. We didn’t have a choice, yet we grit through it and tell me if there are people who didn’t learn a thing in NS.

It’s the sort of ‘boh pian’ that brings unexpected rewards that people who had a choice will never be able to receive. Looking back, I really thank the army for making the person I am today, and I am 100% certain all the guys will agree with me. Those who never pruned on cow dung in India’s wasteland at 3.12am in absolute darkness don’t complain.

Statistics and facts don’t lie. If cream of the crop choose to leave, there must be something out there worth exploring. Come to think of it, even the so called ‘average’ ppl are leaving not because they cannot make a living here, but because they can make more than a living elsewhere. Those are the kind of opportunities that lay outside the well.

If I had chosen to stay, I can already picture myself the next 4 years. Study my ass off, try my utmost, and probably end up being average with FTs around. For the uninitiated, I have never slogged as hard for my A levels compared to the rest of my life. Needing 6 months to rebuild the foundation of a syllabus I last took 7 years ago was no mean feat. Although my grades were average and not good enough for most local unis, I can honestly say I have tried my best and have absolutely no regrets. That was the best I could offer. If it isn’t good enough, there is nothing else I could have done.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone of you. And I really mean each and everyone of you who have played a role in my life in one way or another. You may or may not realize that you have made a significant difference in my life.

God has convicted me of the things I have done in the past to hurt others. There is nothing I can do to change the past, but I pray for the forgiveness of those I’ve hurt or am still hurting. Everyone is a sinner, me and you, but its up to you alone to decide to raise your hand up and admit your sins to God. It takes a lot of humility.

When I first became Christian, I always thought that its between me and God, whatever I do wrong he will convict me. But I was wrong. He wants to use me to reach out to others. But I think I’ve failed miserably. The fault is mine and mine alone. I will be the first to acknowledge that I’m not perfect. I have not done enough to reach out to you guys at all.

How I wish anyone of you guys would think ‘ hey look at how Alvin changed since he became Christian! God must be real! ‘ and approach me to ask about the bible or follow me to church. Unfortunately that has not happened in the last 4 years. I think I have not changed enough to reach that level. The failure is mine and mine alone, no ones else’s. And since I can’t even reach out to the people closest to me, I have no right to stay.

I don’t mean to offend anyone, but pls allow me to share a bit about god. As you all know I hit my lowest pt in the army. One day out of the blue when I was lying in the bunk staring into space, my bunkmate came over and talked to me about god. He challenged me to pray with an open heart and see the miracles he has planned for me. I was already at the bottom so I thought why not since I had nothing to lose?

So I prayed that night for the very first time. “God, if u are real, show me something supernatural as I am human and can only believe in things I can see. If you can do that, I will give my life to u.”

A few days later in the very same bunk, I met him.

There is emptiness in all of our hearts, its just how well people hide it or put on a front to suppress it. The so called proud will never show it out and very often the people who acknowledge that they do have that emptiness will turn to other ways to try and fill that hole.

I know because I was one of them. I smoked and gambled and did anything to fill that void. It worked, momentarily as we engage in that temporary reprieve. In that instant of partying or euphoria experienced, that emptiness is forgotten.

Problem is, when we all go home and lie in our beds at night, tossing and turning, trying to sleep, you realize that nothing has changed. The emptiness is still there, every damn night.

So people brush it off, trying to ignore it by doing more stuff to suppress it, pretend it isn’t there. The worst thing that can happen is that we start to accept that emptiness as part and parcel of life that can never be filled.

Day after day, night after night, emptiness overwhelms us. Everything evolves around looking for substitutes, be it smoking or simply hanging out with friends.

When I look at the people around me, I feel saddened not by those who know they have that void, but rather by those too proud to admit it. Always putting up a front as if in total control of everything when deep down, the hole is gaping.

Guys, there is nothing more I can do or say other than to challenge you to say the very same thing I said. ‘God if you are real, give me a sign’. I cannot force you to believe and honestly don’t expect you to simply by reading the words I type.

For those who watched the matrix, its something like that. No amount of persuasion or description can adequately portray god. You got to experience yourself and pray with a believing heart. Remember, you have absolutely nothing to lose. If you don’t feel the calling, by all means carry on your daily lives but pls remember jesus is always there 24/7. Just a prayer away.

I wish to emphasize that I’m not putting anyone’s religion down, just offering an alternative. If you have other gods and have been praying to them and feel that after 25 yrs of praying to them there is nothing lacking, I don’t blame you if choose not to believe. For myself it took me more than 20 years to realize I should not kid myself anymore and that it wasn’t working. Those who are really interested you know my Msn, or do wat I did last time, church hopping alone and find one that u think its suitable. From experience, as long as u sit in the corner, no one will come and disturb u.

Back to my decision to leave, the easy option was of course to stay. But I prayed about it and I feel he has been opening and closing doors for me and UQ was a door that offered me the best deal. Cheapest course fees comparable to local 4 year ones, 2 yr degree and a chance of a lifetime to step out of my comfort zone. Like I mentioned to some of you guys, I’m already 25, my parents are not getting younger. If I don’t leave now, when will I leave? When I’m 30 plus and lethargic with a heavy heart of leaving my aged parents? I believe this is the perfect time to go.

I honestly don’t know if or when I’ll be back. I may just come back after 2 yrs or simply stay there. Either way its up to him and u guys can come visit me anytime. By then u guys will have the financial muscles. Haha..

I really wish those who have contemplated leaving but have no courage to do so will take my departure as an encouragement. Of course the perfect excuse will be recession, everywhere the same, no money, lack of experience who would wanna employ etc. You and I both know that if we really put our heart and soul to it, that’s gibberish. People with less qualifications have been working overseas and some of them are people we all know!

Of course if you are totally contented to stay here, by all means. I’m not saying everyone should go. But for those who really want to go, work a few years overseas and if you don’t like it, come back! No one’s forcing you to migrate..haha..

Other than that, I really don’t see an issue with my departure. Soccer wise Jack will be my replacement along with matt tim and des. Supper wise my car will be replaced by ang heng’s Honda with Honda. By then talen will love to drive and those without cars will have enough to buy one ..haha..Left 4 dead still can play online with me mah. I think u all will probably miss my organizing of buffets and perhaps Christmas gifts lor. Haha..easily replaceable la no worries. My tisiao lor..haha and my smelly shirt when I play soccer..lihai boh.. I will skin the Aussies with that when playing soccer there.

I dun foresee anyone getting married within a short span unless of course tiao kias. When IR opens pls bar the appropriate members from entering. I dun wan to receive a call in the middle of the night in Brisbane asking for telegraphic transfer to save someone’s butt halfway round the world.

That’s about it. Those starting work I pray that you’ll find one that you truly enjoy and not one that you toil for that attractive salary which you will spend eventually on healthcare 20 years down the road coz of the stress and unhappiness accumulated over the years.

For those studying to obviously try your best and not have any regrets! If all goes well come here lor.. yi qi liao lor!~~ for those emo, you and I both know there is no one who can help u, temporarily perhaps, but for a perm fix, refer to paragraphs 5 to 6.

So farewell ppl, as I begin my exciting new chapter of my life, I really wish u guys will have the courage to do the same or even join me. I leave with many fond memories of you guys. Come to think of it, its not such a big deal. We are so connected through the internet, u guys are just 7 hrs away from visiting me. Just treat it as I’m going into a 2 yr long hibernation period with an option to extend.

My wish before I leave is that you guys will constantly update this blog with pictures or anything! Just a simple one liner or something everyday will mean a lot to me so at least I feel connected to you guys. Just update me on ur lives or kips or anything at all! Best if u guys can upload the goal of the week like BPL during the weekly soccer sessions. Boh la kong qiu.

I feel truly blessed and grateful for the people in my life.

May God bless each and everyone of you.

I leave you with this phrase from the bible as I hope you guys will remember whenever you all meet up to encourage each other and not speak ill of others and put them down. It speaks of love generally but in this case brotherly and sisterly love between friends:

1 Corinthians 13:4

4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

God bless,
alvin
13/07/2009

Long Time Coming

2009-07-04T02:56:00.003+08:00

I know its been barely hours since you guys gave me the keys to the golden gates of laosipkong and there will be laughter and bemusement over my haste in posting here, but I think it is a post long overdue.

All the recent reminiscing has been a strong reminder of how long we’ve all known each other, especially all the secondary school stuff brought up by Alvin and Kumar at Jalan Kayu some nights back, on our post-L4D jaunt. The amazing thing is the presence of elements of our personalities that have somehow persisted through time. Equally amazing is the centrality which our long friendship has played in my life, whether you guys were around or not. Our time together now is testimony to that.

Of course, I have disappeared for periods of time and missed out on lots of fun, (like Drogspa’s spa-cial) but it has been a poignant return for me, with all the time we’ve spent together recently and with Alvin off soon to pursue his future. I wish you the best and I hope that any bad experience you have had so far in life is only a counter-balance to all the good things that will now come your way. You will definitely be missed. (No more tandem biking/ kayak sharing/ shoe shopping/drag racing!)

Tonight was our record-setting 4 car convoy and yes, I drove like a maniac (sorry kumar and mendi!). I think its been a long time since I let myself off my leash and feel the adrenaline of running forward and not looking back. Its been a long time since I’ve hung out with GMH like this and I hope its not the last. I’m lucky to have all you guys as friends, honestly.

It hasn’t been a smooth ride for me lately, but GMH has been the base trend-line to my ups and downs, and the regression that must meet every digression. For months, I have been grappling with a well of sadness which I couldn't release and a deep-rooted aggression I could not control. Rest assured, I sought help and I hope the worst is now over. It is a strange time in my life that you guys have reappeared, in my moment of helplessness.

I will always remember that you guys were here for me for each for the times I’ve fallen and bruised myself. Especially Kumar, who had to listen to two rounds of my endless post-traumatic babbling and yet be able to offer some rationality and Alvin for the support, di siao and that talk on the drive back home. There are few people who understand me like you guys. Of course, not forgetting all the rest of you guys, with your di siao-ing and kip huip spotting. I know that in time, I will pick myself up again and regain that inner strength I had taken for granted.

This is my post for now, and I will hope to contribute more. Thanks guys, for the great times and the brother-hood!

Ang Heng

Breaking Point...

2009-05-28T10:06:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time since I wrote something here. I really should be writing something nice and happy since i have graduated and gone overseas.

But what has been haunting me are the mere fact that I am still unemployed.

Frustrated... and worse, is the fact that I have to face my parents every single day...

Every single day pass by and the same kind of thoughts still haunts me…

Should I or should I not work for my parents?

Am I not a good son if I do not help them, especially right now, in these difficult times.

Really hate the fact that I am a graduate now… Felt like such a failure.

Up till now I still do not know what the right decision is.

I can come up with a few reasons for why I should work for them. But I can also come up with a 101 reasons why I should not.

I hope I can rewind a few years back so that I can plan my studies better and not graduate at this freaking time.

And at times, the frustration level hits a breaking point and the thought of “leaving everything behind” comes back.

F************ financial crisis….

Blackburn

educational video

2009-05-15T21:54:00.001+08:00

stumbled across this ground-breaking educational video.. more vids here..

http://laozhabor.blogspot.com/

god bless,
alonso

bANDERSONics!

2009-04-17T21:55:00.005+08:00

REPERTOIRE

Enchanted Soundtrack
MAMA MIA!
Bridge over Troubled Waters
Ensemble Work
Teresa Teng's Song Medley
Bravo Brass
Pinocchio
March 'Willing and Able'

My first full-fledged concert with the Alumni Band!

Do SUPPORT k!

Buzz me for early bird discount=)

Click on the image above to see the details!

*amendi*

Life's tough, but...

2009-04-12T23:15:00.001+08:00

Hi,

Life has never been easy.

I don’t know if I should be happy. In 2 weeks time, I’ll be graduating. But I’ll also become one of the unemployed in the streets.

Furthermore with my own family problems, things can never be easy.

Being the only son, I feel the burden on me. I still can handle it now. But in years to come, I don’t know if I could.

On the bright side, I seem like I really have matured.

All in all, let me get a job first. One that I love to do.

Oh and FYI... I am considering going overseas to work again.

There was this guy that said this to me before, “Blackburn, Singapore is too small for me.”

Maybe I should really consider venturing OOS.

It is a good thing I am single at the moment.
Blackburn

BAREFOOTED STREET SOCCER!!

2009-04-05T20:53:00.004+08:00

Not too sure abt you guys, but i kinda enjoyed today's impromptu street soccer session! Well, except the 2 huge blisters on my two big toes =( And more so that most of the clique were there=) You guys really look very cuuuuuttteeeee playing barefooted, machiam secondary school kids. haha! Thanks FMUS2 and Talen for organising today's session. Looking forward to next week's session already, as always!

BINGTAI VS BENNY

MENDI SCRATCHING HIS A**

LOL!

FINDING HAPPINESS IN THE MIDST OF A KANGTAO=)

MY TEAM WAITING TO MAKE OUR PRESENCE FELT.

AH ENG ORHH...AH ENGGG...

BAREFOOTED WEEKEND WARRIORS

*amendi*

A ghostly encounter...

2009-03-30T21:21:00.001+08:00

Hi,

Being the KTV frantic, I recently heard a story about a particular KTV session by these 2 girls and it really freaks me out.

One day, girl A and B went to a particular KTV session. After the session, they went to pay for the KTV.

Since this particular KTV charges per person rate, they charged them for 3 persons! This is confirmed by the waiter whom has been serving them drinks.

Given that there are only 2 people for that session, the 2 girls start to create a commotion at the counter.

So when the manager came to settle the dispute, they decided to watch the CCTV for evidence.

When they are watching the video, THERE WERE REALLY A 3rd PERSON IN THE ROOM!

It was a man sitting in the room. He was just sitting there quietly. After the girl’s KTV session ended, the manager saw the guy walking through the wall leaving the room!

Then in the end, the manager decided to charge them for 2 persons.

Haha... I don’t know I should laugh or cry. And I’ve been to the particular KTV too!

Blackburn

The Silent Continue...

2009-03-18T16:35:00.003+08:00

Since no one is putting up their wish, I am thinking it is because their wishes are what Alonso said not to write.

I would not deny that having a gf or pik piak is in my wish list. But if it comes down to only 1 wish, it will be....

To get a job asap.

So that I can achieve the unthinkable feat by the end of the next 2 years!

Hopefully the job pays well and has a interesting job scopes.
Haha...

But is 1 wish too little... I still have so many other wishes...
Humans will never be satisfied with what they have.

Blackburn

Why so quiet?

2009-03-10T01:12:00.002+08:00

Hi guys,

I juz thought the blog needed a new post to cover the super long post about soccer. Btw why in the world do we need the rules and regulations ah? shouldn't the list of places be enough? anyway that is besides the point.. haha..

So whats up guys? mai sian la its 2009 next year 2010 liao so fun! why the doom and gloom? A lot of us are embarking on exciting new phases in our lives! Time to look forward and rub our hands in anticipation!

For some of u guys studying will be a thing of a past as u officially enter the working life. As for myself i can't wait to enter a new environment, meet new ppl, face new challenges.

So I thought of a new idea to motivate ourselves! why not we start a post on ONE single wish to be completed by the end of this year.

On 31/12/2009, we can then bring the post back up again and evaluate whether we succeeded in our wishes.

Lets keep things simple.

NO MULTIPLE WISHES. Just a single, realistic one that can be achieved by the end of this year. Be specific and elaborate on the details pls.

I'll start off :

I wish that God will bring me to a uni where i can grow as a person. Just like when he showed me into St Francis. Lookin back on those 2 years, i can safely say that everything went PERFECTLY. Without a single regret or remorse. I learnt and experienced things i never thought i would ever have the chance to in my life.

I don't think i'll ever have the chance again to stand in front of 500 ppl on stage, alone, face to face with a pastor, and take an oath before a whole school to fulfil my duties to the best of my abilities as the President of the Student Council.

I don't think i'll ever have the chance to be the Emcee of a Speech day again.

So my dream is simply to be in a place where I can face new challenges, and at the age of 80, be able to look back at my life and say that "i've been there and done that" and be able to tell them to my grandchildren. Who knows, LAOSIPKONG may even be continued by them!

If i've ever placed into a place like SP ever again, then i will consider this wish as a failure. NEVER again will i lead a mundane life of routine after routine, a mistake i made in poly..haha.. Before I know it, death as a routine will ensue.

So guys, now its ur turn, some of u will be lookin for jobs, some will be changing jobs, some will still be studying. Watever it is, juz list down a single wish whether with regards to finances (BORING), health or family.

Pls dun give crappy wishes like pik piak by end of year. earn 10K by end of the year, buy Lambo by end of the year etc...

Keep it realistic and achievable. Elaborate more and be specific, so that we can all work towards our goals.

At the end of the year, everyone muz steadip ok? Whenever u guys need motivation and encouragement, just see this blog and look at the post u put up and that will serve as strength!

Here is a beautiful song I stumbled across. One of the best piano pieces I've ever heard in my life. Share it with u guys so that u can hear and type at the same time.

God Bless!
Alonso

Sunday Soccer Update...

2009-02-24T01:30:00.002+08:00

Hi all,

Dave aka Meiqing told me to inform all of you guys about this new piece of information.

Please read carefully and please give your respective comments.

"Free to Play Fields

Wtih effect from 29 Mar 2008, a total of 43 primary school fields have been opened for public use free-of-charge and on a first-come first-serve basis. The hours of operation are from 3.00pm to 7.00pm on Saturdays and 9.00am to 7.00pm on Sundays. No prior booking is required to use these fields.

RULES & REGULATIONS

1. The Facility is provided for the general enjoyment, well-being and fitness conditioning of the public and you are to use this privilege in a responsible manner.

2. You are to take all reasonable care and precautions for your own safety and belongings when you use the Facility.

3. SSC totally excludes liability for any loss of life or property or any damage or injury that may result from your use of the facility. By using / continuing to use the facility, you have unconditionally agreed to this condition. SSC reserves the right to be indemnified for any loss suffered arising from your use of the Facility.

4. Use of field is on first come first serve basis. Maximum number of users allowed into the school field at any one time shall be determined by the Field Warden.

5. SSC has the right to stop or prevent any group who is deemed to be seen wholly or partially monopolizing or depriving other users from using the field.

6. SSC reserves the right to close the field in the event of inclement weather, haze and other unforeseen circumstances which may or can affect the safety of the public. Notice of field closure will be displayed at the entrance of the access gate to inform the public.

7. Children below 12 year old must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

8. No littering and illegal dumping allowed in the school field.

9. No climbing of perimeter fencing or trespassing into school premise. Persons caught trespassing or vandalizing school properties will be prosecuted.

10. No setting up of tents and hosting of private gatherings or parties or picnic in the school field.

11. No unauthorized notices or banners to be displayed at the school fencing or within the premise.

12. No dangerous activities such as flying of remote control model airplanes, golf and competitive football, rugby, crickets baseball, etc.

13. Only recreational soccer and other similar types of ball games are allowed.

14. No unauthorized setting up of small goalpost or other items such as miniature cones for soccer game.

15. No hawking or other commercial activities are allowed within the school field.

16. SSC reserve the right to deny entry to any person found to misbehaving or creating a nuisance to other users of the facility.

By Order
Singapore Sports Council"

The fields are as follows;

North Area

1. Ahmad Ibrahim Primary School 10 Yishun St 11 Singapore 768643
2. Ang Mo Kio Primary School 20, ANG MO KIO AVENUE 3 ( 569920 )
3. Bendemeer Primary School 91, BENDEMEER ROAD ( 339948 )
4. Da Qiao Primary School 8, ANG MO KIO STREET 54 ( 569185 )
5.Evergreen Primary School 31, WOODLANDS CIRCLE ( 738908 )
6. Greenwood Primary School 11 WOODLANDS DR 62 SINGAPORE 737942
7. JING SHAN PRIMARY SCHOOL 5, ANG MO KIO ST 52 ( 569228 )
8. Mayflower Primary School 200, ANG MO KIO AVE 5 ( 569878 )
9. North View Primary School 210, YISHUN AVENUE 6 S ( 768960 )
10.Northland Primary School 15, YISHUN AVENUE 4 S ( 769026 )
11.Rosyth School 21, SERANGOON NORTH AVENUE 4 ( 555855 )
12.Sembawang Primary School 10, SEMBAWANG DRIVE ( 757715 )
13.Si Ling Primary School 61, WOODLANDS AVENUE 1 S ( 739067 )
14.Wellington Primary School 10, WELLINGTON CIRCLE ( 757702 )
15.Woodgrove Primary School 2, WOODLANDS DRIVE 14 S ( 738079 )

East

1. Bedok Green Primary School 1, BEDOK SOUTH AVE 2 S ( 469317 )
2. Casuarina Primary School 30, PASIR RIS STREET 41 S (518935)
3. Chongzheng Primary School "1, TAMPINES STREET 21 S ( 529392 )
4. Compassvale Primary School 21, COMPASSVALE ST S ( 545091 )
5. Coral Primary School 20, PASIR RIS ST 51 S ( 518902 )
6. East Coast Primary 8, CHAI CHEE LANE ( 469031 )
7. East View Primary School 4, TAMPINES STREET 91 ( 528907 )
8. Edgefield Primary School 41, EDGEFIELD PLAINS ( 828869 )
9. Elias Park Primary School 11, PASIR RIS STREET 52 S ( 518866 )
10.Eunos Primary School 95, JALAN EUNOS ( 419529 )
11.Fengshan Primary School 307, BEDOK NORTH ROAD ( 469680 )
12.Fernvale Primary School 1, FERNVALE LANE S ( 797701 )
13.Loyang Primary School 3, PASIR RIS DRIVE 6 S ( 519419 )
14.Park View Primary School 60, PASIR RIS DRIVE 1 S ( 519524 )
15.Pasir Ris Primary School 5, PASIR RIS STREET 21 ( 518968 )
16.Punggol Primary School "61 HOUGANG AVENUE 8 SINGAPORE 538787"
17.Qiaonan Primary School 11, TAMPINES STREET 11 S (529454)
18.White Sands Primary School 2, PASIR RIS ST 11 ( 519075 )

West

1. Blangah Rise Primary School 91, TELOK BLANGAH HEIGHTS ( 109100 )
2. Boon Lay Garden Primary School 20, BOON LAY DRIVE S ( 649930 )
3. Bukit Panjang Primary school 109, CASHEW ROAD S ( 679676 )
4. Corporation Primary School 31, JURONG WEST STREET 24 ( 648347 )
5. Chua Chu Kang Primary School 20, CHOA CHU KANG AVENUE 2 S ( 689905 )
6. Fuhua Primary School 65, JURONG EAST STREET 13 ( 609647 )
7. Gan Eng Seng Primary School 100, REDHILL CLOSE ( 158901 )
8. Keming Primary School 90, BUKIT BATOK EAST AVE 6 ( 659762 )
9. Queenstown Primary School 310, MARGARET DR ( 149303 )
10.Radin Mas Primary School 1, BUKIT PURMEI AVENUE S ( 099840 )
11.South View Primary School 6, CHOA CHU KANG CENTRAL S ( 689762 )
12.West View Primary School 31, SENJA ROAD S ( 677742 )
13.Unity Primary School 21, CHOA CHU KANG CRESCENT ( 688268 )
14.Xingnan Primary School 5, JURONG WEST STREET 91 ( 649036 )
15.Yuhua Primary School 158, JURONG EAST STREET 24 ( 609558 )
16.Zhangde Primary School 51, JALAN MEMBINA S ( 169485 )
17.Zhenghua Primary School 9, Fajar Road ( 679002 )

So those above are the choices for the school.

I am alright with any of the schools in the North. The rest?

Please (MUST) put your comments in the COMMENTS BOX! Not the tag-board!

Thanks.

Regards,
Blackburn

For your Reading Pleasure

2009-02-15T21:26:00.003+08:00

Hi all, as some of you may or may not know, I injured my ankle last week while playing soccer. The pitch is getting worse every week. If you fall down you'll probably get a nasty abrasion. In my case, your studs get stuck in some lobang on the pitch and you injure yourself. Or you get the rubbery black particles in your shoes or get a free 'tattoo' from the stuff getting stuck on your skin. I'm pissed off at having to miss soccer 'cos of the bad pitch conditions and not getting my money's worth, so I submitted this feedback to the Sports Council Website:

Dear Madam/Sir,

I badly twisted my ankle while playing soccer in St. Wilfrid last week, 8th February. I would like to draw your attention to the poor conditions of the 5-a-side pitches, especially Pitch 3, where I got injured. The strips of artifical turf laid out adjacent to each other are starting to fray at the sides and thin on the surface due to wear and tear. There are gaps in between the strips, where my boot studs got caught, causing me to land awkwardly and twist my ankle. The thinning surface is becoming very abrasive; any player who takes a fall is sure to sustain an abrasion due to the rough surface. This is made worse by the rubbery black particles that cover the playing surface, increasing risks of abrasions and getting into footwear, making for a very unpleasant playing experience.

My friends and I have been playing on the St. Wilfrid fields for more than 2 1/2 years every week and have not seen any significant upgrading or maintenance on the pitches themselves. We support the Sports Council's efforts to promote a healthy and active lifestyle among Singaporeans and fork out good money every week to pursue our sporting passion. As a sporting citizen and paying customer, I demand the SSC take prompt action as this is an important safety issue.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lets hope they do something about it.

Kumar

Passive Not Active...

2009-02-06T17:59:00.002+08:00

Hello,

You will never believe what I am doing now... Other than writing this post...

Anyway I just realise, our long-time blogger, Blackburn is such a passive guy when regards to relationship...

Long gone is the guy who does super crazy things especially during his JC life... If you know him, you will know what this means... I still remember the “record” he had during that 2 years was 10.

Right now... maybe he has matured. Although 25 years seem to be a long time for someone to get to this stage...

He has become so passive... Some friends call him a “soulless shell” when he goes out with them.

Or maybe he has stoned too much or just seen too much...

Maybe he is just tired of it...

He seems to have become like Nikaido... Not to that extent... but almost there.

Anyway here are some of the photos of what i call the “last buffet”. Cause the photos looks like a graduation picture!

Oh.. and I forget to tell you what I am doing... Right now I am listening to all of the JAY CHOU CD so that if someone got request, he will not panic and be able to at least sing part of the song.
Apparently i am already at my 3rd Cd... 3 more to go...
TT

Reserved

2009-01-22T14:29:00.003+08:00

Hi Guys,

Thanks to talen, he has kindly, most honourably, rose above his moral duties by already reserving the place for the 31st Jan 2009 Dinner. Its at Shenton Way so we will meet at 6pm probably at Raffles Mrt.

The menu and details are all here in the link.

http://www.noblehouse.com.sg/

http://www.tunglok.com/noble/noble_menus.html#buffets

The price is $33.80++ if we choose sharks fin or $39.80++ if we choose Buddha so I guess the former is more than enough.

So kindly be informed and spread the word around. And Kindly confirm your attendance here simply by saying steadip.

Alternatively, we are still open to suggestions and if those who find it kt, pls give us ur suggestions and pls book first before the CNY period.

I repeat, no need to wait for ppl to confirm, juz book first for a table of 15 then we decide which is best later.

In the meantime, look forward to a steadip dinner. Its been a damn long while since all of us sat down at a proper dinner, instead of Jostling with millions of aunties waiting in line at those buffet places filled with smoke and slippers.

Since we saved on the Chrismas Dinner thanks to Lulu, treat this as the perfect time to indulge in a proper meal when our pockets are filled with ang baos!

So prepare our hearts, minds and stomachs as we usher in a new year and a new beginning. Put on our bow ties and sashes for a high class, sit down, reunion clique dinner cum celebration.

Btw pls try to persuade Ah Du to come earlier coz he can only finish work at 7 by the time he come down I think will be bout 8 o'clock. So I was persuading him to tell his boss to let him off an hour earlier.

Kips and Yans are all welcome, juz remember to inform asap so we can book a bigger table.

Gong xi Gong xi

alonso

Here's a little treat in accordance to the New Year spirit:

2009-01-22T10:55:00.004+08:00

*Si Chuan Dou Hua*

Dear all, my suggestion=)

Location: 60th Story of UOB Plaza Price: $38.80++

For more info, log on to:

http://www.sichuandouhua.com/promotions.html

and

http://sichuandouhua.com/pdf/SCDH_Dimsum_PressJune08.pdf

amendi

A photo of my nephews

2009-01-20T22:53:00.003+08:00

Hi guys! It's has been a long time since i put up a post here. The 3 kids are my nephews in Taiwan. And guess what, they are triplets. It was taken in their school and i was delivering lunchboxes to them. They are super adorable larrrrr, keep clinging onto me. Hope to see them again soon. Really miss them now.

Anyway I am now in my final semester. Things do not look good for me, especially my final year project (FYP). There are so many obstacles along the way that sway my confidence. And the worst thing that had happened to me yesterday: I broke the machine and it will take at least 2 months to repair it. Note that I need to submit my thesis by late Mar. The rest of the Phd students are affected as well and they need to think of alternatives. But they are understanding and din blame me for that. They said that every human makes mistakes and this is a learning experience for me. Anyway I have got over it, and it's time for me to think of alternative plan such that I can finish my thesis on time.

I will persevere.....

Lulu

Major Prob

2009-01-19T12:47:00.002+08:00

Hi guys,

I juz called Tung Lok and bad news, they stall their buffets till 15th of feb after the CNY period.

Someone with a more powerful Chinese pls call them again to reconfirm coz it was PRC who took my call.

Her accent reminded me of Cao Cao. But that is besides the point.

So at present I'm starved of suggestions so anyone of u juz come out with any and proceed to book pls. I personally am fine with anything but preferably dinner buffet.

Another thing, Psycho can u pls inform Ah Du and his Gf so that they can take leave in advance since its supposed to be bday celebration for u guys. Pls do it ASAP coz I think CNY period his shop quite busy.

alonso

I am a "Hyena"...

2009-01-13T22:39:00.002+08:00

Hyenas. What do you think when this animal comes to your mind?

Recently, I am hooked on YOUTUBE watching animals’ video clip, for example those on discovery channel and Animal Planet.

The 1 thing i realised is Hyenas are the most misunderstood animals around the world.

Before watching any of the clips, I thought hyenas are scavengers, eating leftover, stupid, noisy... just don’t like them.

Upon watching the clips, I realise they are so MISUNDERSTOOD.

Hyenas DO hunt for their OWN food. 95% of their food is being hunted by them. When they really steal food, it is from the lions, one of the most fearsome animals in Africa. They also hunt in packs and live together. Each group can have up to 100 hyenas. When they get their food, THEIR YOUNGS ARE THE FIRST TO EAT. They also eat everything... including the bones.

There are still so much facts to be amazed.

After this, I feel stupid.

I mean how i felt before about hyenas is like me judging a book by its cover.

I mean “Don’t do to others what you don’t like people to do to you right?”

I really hate to be judge like that. I really hate to be misunderstood.

Recently I heard I was label as a PLAYBOY by this friend’s friend’s friend.

I mean what did I do to deserve this. I am only being sociable.

It is like I am releasing an aura when I walk around that states “HI I AM BEING SOCIABLE BECAUSE I AM A PLAYBOY.” WHAT THE...

This is seriously not the F********** first time I am label as a Playboy.

I mean what did I DO?

I like to stay home most of the days. My favourite activity is stay at home watch VCD.

I study, after school, I go home almost every single day. If i am in school, i am in the library.

There are sooooooo many SMU girls. My group of friends in SMU is freaking 90% guys!

I am almost a mummy’s boy.

I am not rich.

I always eat cheap food. The cheaper the better.

I have a driving license, BUT I hate to drive. If i have car, I also don’t like to drive.

I don’t eat supper.

I don’t go up to girls on the street and know them.

I hate drinking. I don’t smoke. I don’t have tattoo.

I have been single for the last 4 years.

AND I AM STILL A *********!

WHAT DO I DESERVE TO BE LABEL A PLAYBOY!!!

Just because I socialise? Just because I make friends with YOU?

If that is the reason, I admit defeat.

I do not disagree that maybe I might have something wrong with myself. Maybe I should go and see a doctor. But if you don’t know me well, don’t judge me.

And friends, my very good friends, my really good friends, please do not voice any opinions of me if you are not very sure either. Esp. If you are around people you don’t know.

With regards to relationship, I do admit sometimes I am wrong. But that is in the past.

AND If I voice any opinion about a girl, it just that. Please do not think too much.

If you do, KEEP TO YOURSELF. Or tell me. I’ll know what to do next time. Just shut up!

After that, don’t ask me why I am not telling you this or that, cause I need to shut up.

Cause if I need to be more that what I typed about myself, then i don’t know what i will become anymore.

Thanks.

A MISUNDERSTOOD Blackburn

An Affordable Alternative

2009-01-13T22:15:00.002+08:00

Hi Guys,

I was just surfing the net and stumbled upon this Tung Lok Restaurant at Far East Square. It is very much cheaper than Equinox and since Kumar can't make it on the 31st during that time I suggest we take a look at this alternative.

It is Tung Lok so the quality is guaranteed while the menu looks as good as the last one we went to during Christmas 4 years back. So take a look at the menu found here and give me a response pls.

The last time I asked for a response 4 ppl responded. Bing, Kumar, Amendi and Psycho. The rest? Too busy packing for CNY ah? Just give me a one word answer of either Equinox or Tunglok will be much appreciated.

If many are still keen on Equinox (which incidentally I still am,) then we will stick to the original plan, if not we'll switch to Tung Lok. The good side is that is is cheaper and the timing allows us to plan for a more happening night out.

Again, kindly respond and I will reserve if not someone else must do it once I start work. Tentatively we fix the date on the 31st of Jan, Saturday.

Gong Xi Gong Xi,
alonso

the menu can be found here
http://www.zhouskitchen.com/menu-buffet-alacarte.php

Equinox!!

2009-01-03T17:11:00.002+08:00

Yo guys!

Upcoming steadip dinner. wat better time to enjoy than CNY when all our pockets are full.

I recommand the 60 storey high Equinox! steadip!

The view is outstanding trust me.

I juz checked the dinner dun have buffet and its too expensive.

So the next best thing is the high-tea buffet from 3-5pm. Its $38++. Considering its once in a while and during that period a couple of Bdays coming up, its worth discussing.

So far Me, Mandy and Kumar steadip liao. So faster save up now and get ready for the best meal ever with a breathtaking view!

Gong xi Gong xi,
alonso

http://www.etour-singapore.com/equinox-restaurant.html#restaurant

Just friends...

2009-01-03T08:59:00.000+08:00

Hi,
I am not sure if you know this. I am almost a perfectionist, at least to the things I plan; I try to execute them well so my efforts will never go to waste.

Furthermore, almost expecting this result, I ask for permission to plan all these stuff, hoping for a different result.

BUT... I guess I am asking too much. (Refer to POST “EMONISIM” and “NEW RULE NEXT YEAR”.)

OR maybe I cared too much?

After all, we are just friends.

I just want things to go well.

Anyway, just for all the people that I cared for and planned for before;

I GIVE UP... Because I just realise it is a waste of my time.

After my duty this year, I requested to be release from the organising group. Thanks.

And for your information, WHEN I SAID I AM SICK, I AM REALLY SICK. If you want me to give a MC, please request from me earlier. AND DON’T GO AROUND TELLING PEOPLE OTHER STUFF WHICH IS NOT TRUE.

REALLY HATE IT.

Blackburn

If you are ZHANG WU JI...

2008-12-29T23:51:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Was watching this drama “Heavenly Sword and the Dragon Sabre”... For those interested in Chinese Novels, Comics or Games will already know this story!

In it, the male lead, Zhang Wu Ji, has many choices for a girlfriend.

They are:
1. Zhou Zhi Lou – Beauty and Brains
2. Xiao Zhao – Beauty and Loyalty (?), slightly witty/cunning
3. Zhao Min – Beauty and Witty, Pampered
4. Another one with the Golden Granny – Straight forward, Cunning, Scar on her face

These 3 Kips and 1 not so kip really like him...

But if you are the male lead which will you choose?

I will choose Zhao Min, even if she is a bit pampered. Cause with her character, I think it will be fun to be with. And also she is Kip lor!

SO SO WHO WILL YOU CHOOSE? BASE ON CHARACTER and Not the Storyline.

Anyway I also watched a few other movies that I like and I recommend to you all!

1. Sicko – MUST WATCH
2. Connected – MUST WATCH, I watch 2 times.
3. Iron Man – Not Bad
4. The Dark Knight – Superb Acting

So that’s all!

Blackburn

"Supermatch"

2008-12-15T18:45:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Let me tell you what I have been doing these days.

I have been going online to watch this Taiwanese variety show – “Super Match”.
It is like a matchmaking variety show, where people join this website www.i-part.com.tw and get pick from there to go on a tour with a few other people (girls and guys). So after the tour, either the girls or the guys will confess their love for their targets.

This show also shows us guys what to do when you are courting someone and what not to do. Quite interesting actually.

Anyway since I am recovering from some recent incident, this is really a fast cure for me.

So really envy these people going on these tours... Even if you don’t meet anyone... You get to travel leh!

Hopefully Mediacorp do something like this soon! I’ll definitely join if i’m still single then.

You can watch “Supermatch” at Monday night 11.30pm on Channel U or http://so.tudou.com/isearch/%E9%80%9F%E9%85%8D%E7%94%B7%E5%A5%B3/cid__time__sort_score_display_album_page_2

Anyway, i also join another matchmaking website which seems quite interesting. It goes by www.be2.sg , although i don’t think anything will happen but let’s see how it goes.

Blackburn

"EMONISM"...

2008-12-14T18:39:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Don’t know if I am having too much time or what... Getting quite emo nowadays. Not really in the best of mood.

I get irritated easily, even by the little things in life. So now, I apologise in advance to those whom I may hurt in the near future.

Secondly, I don’t know what I have been doing for soccer now is a good thing. Don’t feel appreciated. A “thank you” will be good enough. But never mind, I am used to it and I understand. Our clique always takes things for granted. Nothing will ever change.

For your information, I will send the stuff over to all the organisers through email. If anyone of you thinks that all these Sunday soccer stuff is redundant, just state it in the comment. I will gladly just forget about the whole issue.

That’s all I am saying.

Really irritated. Really emo. Really sian.

If Blackburn ever recruits Souness as the next manager, I foresee my emotions hitting a historical high.

Blackburn

Cellular VS Connected...

2008-12-12T17:09:00.000+08:00

Hi,

At last, I have watched Connected (Bao Chi Tong Hua). It is the Hongkong remake of “Cellular”.

I suggest those who still did not watch this movie to GO AND WATCH IT NOW.
I feel that it is a slightly better version of Cellular. There are lesser action and fight scenes but more acting involved.

The storyline is better too... I mean a reluctant hero in the Chinese version than a “I am going to be hero” in the Hollywood version.

Also Louis Koo is sooooooooo much than the Ang Mo guy. And Barbie Hsu is SOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH MORE better than Kim Basinger.

I mean will you rather get a call from a OLDER WOMAN asking for help, or someone your age asking for help? Unless you have a fetish for older lady, I will choose the latter. Haha...

Moreover, the policeman in Connected is also much better. Nicky Cheung vs this other old guy in cellular. Haha...

Just look at the links and you will get it.

http://www.moviexclusive.com/review/connected/connected.htm
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0337921/

Watch it NOW! Don’t wait.

Blackburn
(What I have been doing at home)

UPDATES... UPDATES...

2008-12-09T11:10:00.001+08:00

Hi,

It’s me again on the same day within a few minutes.

Just wanted to comment something...

“Thank you alonoso for putting up that post.”

But I just realise your post in DEC. Like NOW. Haha..

OK with regards to Alonso’s suggested activity – these are my views.

1: Paintball at the New Khatib Arena  Expensive and Kt. If you really want, I suggest we go Malaysia play. I heard it is more fun and more bullets.

2: Chek Jawa – Go so many times until i sian...

3: Sports outing at Talen's Condo tentatively set on 8 Dec – This happened already. We had fun right?

4: Jurong East Swimming Complex, the one with the wave facility – Haha... swimming?! If anyone can make mendi go, then i’ll go.

5: The new Marina Reservoir Trek – This looks goods... I go bring insect repellent.

6: 11 a side soccer ( where is amanda? ) – We play well previously. Its time to have our own 11 aside. I guess we could organise someday with 22 of our own players and play among ourselves. But is Dec too late?

7: Picnic at Sentosa ( Esther making sushi) – I don’t mind. But Esther making sushi?! Haha... i thought she never like Japanese stuff.

8: Customary Xmas Dinner – GUYS THIS IS IN THE MIST OF PLANNING. It will be a Xmas Dinner with gift exchange. All GMH members invited. Alonso is planning.

9: Church Camp – No comments. Camp is always fun.

10: Anfield anyone? – Maybe next June? Haha... but i cannot guarantee.

Blackburn

Not Mature Enough...

2008-12-09T10:51:00.001+08:00

Regret...

Full of Regret...

Haha... When was the last time you say things on impulse?

Mine was like RECENTLY.

I shall not go into details of what happens. But it made me realise a lot of things.

I realise I always treat some people very well and then after that SHUT MYSELF OUT OF THEIR WORLD. For example, I treat “B” very well. Then when things go wrong, I shut myself out of “B”’s world.

Is that right?

I never knew the answer until now. After some late communicating between my bestie and some other friend, I realise this is so wrong.

The reason behind all this of shutting myself up is because (I don’t know if anyone will be offended by what i am going to say)...

“I DON’T THINK PEOPLE NEED A LOT OF FRIENDS .
A few “TRUE FRIENDS” will be able to save the day so Y do you need to add on to that?”

That is y I don’t really contact some of them nowsadays. Then again, this does not mean I don’t treat them as ‘”FRIENDS”. In my heart, if they need help or need me, I will definitely be there for them. It just that maybe I AM JUST LAZY TO KEEP IN CONTACT WITH EVERYONE.

OK... I am so contradicting right now.

Haha... Maybe this reason is I AM LAZY. But this is human nature right?

So now I guess the right way forward is TO BRING THINGS BACK TO NORMAL WITH THE RECENT FRIEND I MADE.

I mean I just want things to be back to normal... Don’t really care about other things already.

Hopefully this will happens in due time.

As for whether you are thinking if I am EMO, I don’t think I am or maybe I am.

Haha... After all, if you read before all my posts, you will know. My brain and heart “works” differently. Sometimes my brain will be telling me, you have to do “this”, but my heart is telling me, “Nope that is wrong, you should do that.” To conclude, I am just having a few thoughts now.

Maybe it times to synchronise my BRAIN and HEART to think in the same direction.

Blackburn
(Ps. Can someone tell Blackburn not to employ Graeme Souness Please?)

(Pss. Can we extract WISDOM TOOTH with going over the Complicated stuff like surgery?... Maybe it time to pray. To tell whoever is looking after me up there that “Please make my wisdom tooth disappear. And if you can also, let me be rich.” So friends, if my wisdom tooth disappear, that means i’ll also be rich. Then again I always feel I will be rich eventually... Haha...)

(Psss. Please do not get offended by any of the above messages. If you are, keep it to yourself or just comment. If you are really really offended, you can call my hotline. It is 9*******. If you are my friend, you will know my number. Haha...)