Christmas (Prelude)
Somehow I feel that this Christmas will be different.
Never failed to answer any questions before but this particular one stumped me.
I realised the major things I had done in my life were for those around me. Family, friends, school, CCA and those intellectually disabled.
Completely at a loss when I knew something important was done for me.
I wish I can give you an answer.
But now, let us enjoy the ambigiuty.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
That Thing u Do
That Thing u Do
You doing that thing you do!
Breakin' my heart into a million pieces
Like you always do.
And you, don't mean to be cruel.
You never even knew about the heartache
I've been going through.
And I try and try to forget you girl
But it's just so hard to do.
Every time you do that thing do!
I know all the games you play
And I'm gonna find a way to let you know
That you'll be mine someday.
Cause we, could be happy can't you see?
If you know me let me be the one to hold you
And keep you here with me.
'Cause I try and try to forget you girl
But it's just so hard to do.
Every time you do that thing do!
I don't ask a lot but I know one thing for sure.
It's the love that I haven't got girl.
And I just can't take it anymore.
Cause we, could be happy can't you see?
If you know me let me be the one to hold you
and keep you here with me.
Cause it hurts me so just to see you go
Around with someone new.
And to find that you, you're doing that thing.
Every day just doing that thing.
I can't take you doing that thing you do
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Case Against MLM
The Case Against Multi-Level Marketing (MLM)
As the famous saying goes: There are many roads to Jerusalem. I believe there are equally, if not more approaches to accumulating great wealth too. However, it is simply premature to assume that all methods are completely feasible and desirable. This is a rather feeble attempt to present the case against the widely popular business sales tactic, namely multi-level marketing, also known as pyramid selling. Although the altered version of MLM is legal in the context of the law and regulations pertaining to commercial affairs, its inherent exploitative nature leaves it an undesirable ploy to achieve spectacular sales. An inquiry shall be made in the paragraphs below.
This seemingly profitable business transaction lands the new members (they are NOT classified as investors) into financial jeopardy by leveraging on their optimism on the positive general outlook of the business or industry. IBOs, in short for Independent Business Owner, is merely an artificial term generated by "financial psychologists" to form the illusion that one is a business owner and can receive a substantial passive monthly income without doing any productive work. Productive work here is defined as creating sales by selling products to customers, who are usually friends or relatives of the IBOs. This is what I identify as emotional selling, where the IBO intentionally or unintentionally deploys his or her relationship with another party as a marketing tool to influence him to purchase the overpriced product in order to push sales figures to new heights. Why do I mention overpriced? Direct selling provides convienence to consumers by bringing the product right in front of them but that comes with a cost. The addition of a distributor network pushes up prices due to the inclusion of a third party between the producer and the consumer. Thus, it is not surprising to find the prices of products highly inflated relative to the production costs.
Even so, it is necessary to acknowledge the fact that this marketing and sales system has proven to produce magnificent profits for the firm with its line of products. However, this delusional success has been achieved at the expense of violating business ethics and principles. Philip Fisher wrote a book called "Conservative Investors Sleep Well", while I hope I can write "Ethical Businessmen Snore Loud" sometime in the future haha..
PS: I find it a pity that due to time constraint and mental strain serving in the Army, many arguments are not thoroughly developed and elaborated with valid, compelling examples. This load of crap would have failed as a GP essay, but I think it fits the criteria as an interesting read and a time killer. Anyway there is still SO much for me to learn, any idea how to compress 12 years of academic load into 2 years of personal learning? Accounting, Business and Economics integrated in a 2 year course. How does that sound to you?
As the famous saying goes: There are many roads to Jerusalem. I believe there are equally, if not more approaches to accumulating great wealth too. However, it is simply premature to assume that all methods are completely feasible and desirable. This is a rather feeble attempt to present the case against the widely popular business sales tactic, namely multi-level marketing, also known as pyramid selling. Although the altered version of MLM is legal in the context of the law and regulations pertaining to commercial affairs, its inherent exploitative nature leaves it an undesirable ploy to achieve spectacular sales. An inquiry shall be made in the paragraphs below.
This seemingly profitable business transaction lands the new members (they are NOT classified as investors) into financial jeopardy by leveraging on their optimism on the positive general outlook of the business or industry. IBOs, in short for Independent Business Owner, is merely an artificial term generated by "financial psychologists" to form the illusion that one is a business owner and can receive a substantial passive monthly income without doing any productive work. Productive work here is defined as creating sales by selling products to customers, who are usually friends or relatives of the IBOs. This is what I identify as emotional selling, where the IBO intentionally or unintentionally deploys his or her relationship with another party as a marketing tool to influence him to purchase the overpriced product in order to push sales figures to new heights. Why do I mention overpriced? Direct selling provides convienence to consumers by bringing the product right in front of them but that comes with a cost. The addition of a distributor network pushes up prices due to the inclusion of a third party between the producer and the consumer. Thus, it is not surprising to find the prices of products highly inflated relative to the production costs.
Even so, it is necessary to acknowledge the fact that this marketing and sales system has proven to produce magnificent profits for the firm with its line of products. However, this delusional success has been achieved at the expense of violating business ethics and principles. Philip Fisher wrote a book called "Conservative Investors Sleep Well", while I hope I can write "Ethical Businessmen Snore Loud" sometime in the future haha..
PS: I find it a pity that due to time constraint and mental strain serving in the Army, many arguments are not thoroughly developed and elaborated with valid, compelling examples. This load of crap would have failed as a GP essay, but I think it fits the criteria as an interesting read and a time killer. Anyway there is still SO much for me to learn, any idea how to compress 12 years of academic load into 2 years of personal learning? Accounting, Business and Economics integrated in a 2 year course. How does that sound to you?
Monday, December 08, 2008
What's my Answer?
What's my Answer?
Frankly speaking, the subject which I am tackling now is out of my circle of competence. My concern is not how big this circle is, but rather how well I have defined its perimeter. When the people I have spoken to are obsessed with the expected profits and ways to go about spending them in terms of overseas trips and luxurious goods I know we have different goals. We should do what we love to do and every single cent earned should be saved, not spent. I am not going to participate in this venture just for the sake of doing something, as holding on to cash is the default strategy. Furthermore, when the prospective partners are reluctant to share with me the inner workings of the business model including the downside risk especially, I believe they will be less forthcoming in other areas as well. Generally, I do not work with people whom I find it difficult to trust in. Thus there is no need for any cost-benefit analysis. Well, back to my search for opportunities.
Frankly speaking, the subject which I am tackling now is out of my circle of competence. My concern is not how big this circle is, but rather how well I have defined its perimeter. When the people I have spoken to are obsessed with the expected profits and ways to go about spending them in terms of overseas trips and luxurious goods I know we have different goals. We should do what we love to do and every single cent earned should be saved, not spent. I am not going to participate in this venture just for the sake of doing something, as holding on to cash is the default strategy. Furthermore, when the prospective partners are reluctant to share with me the inner workings of the business model including the downside risk especially, I believe they will be less forthcoming in other areas as well. Generally, I do not work with people whom I find it difficult to trust in. Thus there is no need for any cost-benefit analysis. Well, back to my search for opportunities.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Cousin's Wedding
Cousin's Wedding
Attended my cousin's wedding on Friday which was held at ShangriLa hotel, Sentosa. Felt so happy for them... In the midst of the dinner a video was played to show the process of my cousin fetching his bride from her house and it was pretty entertaining.. I was touched by his declaration of love, and they simply looked great and blissful with love.. The dinner was nice, and I tried drinking wine again to "get used" to alcohol but to no avail.. My face was totally red and vision became blur right after a glass of red wine=X I am just a guy who can't drink, smoke or gamble haha.. This may sound boring to a great many, but it helped me save a great amount of money haha.. That's in addition to a cut in unnecessary consumer expenditure, which my tiny little economy needs right now:)
Attended my cousin's wedding on Friday which was held at ShangriLa hotel, Sentosa. Felt so happy for them... In the midst of the dinner a video was played to show the process of my cousin fetching his bride from her house and it was pretty entertaining.. I was touched by his declaration of love, and they simply looked great and blissful with love.. The dinner was nice, and I tried drinking wine again to "get used" to alcohol but to no avail.. My face was totally red and vision became blur right after a glass of red wine=X I am just a guy who can't drink, smoke or gamble haha.. This may sound boring to a great many, but it helped me save a great amount of money haha.. That's in addition to a cut in unnecessary consumer expenditure, which my tiny little economy needs right now:)
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
That will never happen.
That will never happen again.
It did not happen this year. Nor do I think it will at next year.
I made it happen last year. But think I am not going to make it happen this year.
I doubt I can make any bigger mistake than this for the rest of my life.
It did not happen this year. Nor do I think it will at next year.
I made it happen last year. But think I am not going to make it happen this year.
I doubt I can make any bigger mistake than this for the rest of my life.
If you are not with me, then you are my enemy! -- Anakin Skywalker
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
My Money Personality?
Your Money Personality is Tightwad |
 You don't spend money unless you absolutely have to. And when you do spend, you try to go for the cheapest option possible. You're not a penny pincher because you're poor. In fact, you may have the most cash of anyone you know. You're a true saver. You feel safest when you can watch your bank account grow. While more people should follow your lead, make sure you're not depriving yourself. Spend enough money to take care of yourself in the short term, so you'll be healthy and happy for the long term. |
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Memories
Reality
Let me savour this classic song note by note, word by word, for it brings back bittersweet memories. Dreams provide whatever reality fails to deliver, and I am thankful for this gift.
Met you by surprise, I didn't realize
That my life would change forever
Saw you standing there, I didn't know I cared
There was something special in the air.
Dreams are my reality
The only real kind of real fantasy
Illusions are a common thing
I try to live in dreams
It seems as if it's meant to be.
Dreams are my reality
A different kind of reality
I dream of loving in the night
And loving seems alright
Although it's only fantasy.
If you do exist, honey don't resist
Show me a new way of loving
Tell me that it's true
Show me what to do
I feel something special about you.
Dreams are my reality
The only kind of reality
Maybe my foolishness has past
And maybe now at lastI'll see how a real thing can be.
Dreams are my reality
A wonderous world where I like to be
I dream of holding you all night
And holding you seems right
Perhaps that's my reality.
Met you by surprise, I didn't realize
That my life would change forever
Tell me that it's true
Feelings that are cue
I feel something special about you.
Dreams are my reality
A wonderous world where I like to be
Illusions are a common thing
I try to live in dreams
Although it's only fantasy.
Dreams are my reality
I like to dream of you close to me
I dream of loving in the night
And loving you seems right
Perhaps that's my reality.
Let me savour this classic song note by note, word by word, for it brings back bittersweet memories. Dreams provide whatever reality fails to deliver, and I am thankful for this gift.
Met you by surprise, I didn't realize
That my life would change forever
Saw you standing there, I didn't know I cared
There was something special in the air.
Dreams are my reality
The only real kind of real fantasy
Illusions are a common thing
I try to live in dreams
It seems as if it's meant to be.
Dreams are my reality
A different kind of reality
I dream of loving in the night
And loving seems alright
Although it's only fantasy.
If you do exist, honey don't resist
Show me a new way of loving
Tell me that it's true
Show me what to do
I feel something special about you.
Dreams are my reality
The only kind of reality
Maybe my foolishness has past
And maybe now at lastI'll see how a real thing can be.
Dreams are my reality
A wonderous world where I like to be
I dream of holding you all night
And holding you seems right
Perhaps that's my reality.
Met you by surprise, I didn't realize
That my life would change forever
Tell me that it's true
Feelings that are cue
I feel something special about you.
Dreams are my reality
A wonderous world where I like to be
Illusions are a common thing
I try to live in dreams
Although it's only fantasy.
Dreams are my reality
I like to dream of you close to me
I dream of loving in the night
And loving you seems right
Perhaps that's my reality.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Why?
Why?
One of the warrant officers said I looked angry and asked why. He should have known why.
Not just one, but several of my friends commented that I appear... emotionless and dead.
I wish I could tell them why, when I dun even know what's happening to myself.
Well at least the release of Jay's new album Capricorn lifted my spirits a little. As a fellow Capricornian, this title has a certain relevance to me haha.. Anyway, came across something interesting so I shall post it here...
Capricorn Personality
Capricorns are diligent, conscientious, hardworking and cautious, seldom allowing themselves any sort of permissiveness; this makes them among the most reliable people to work with. You endure hardship well and can be very tolerant, slogging your way up life's steepest climbs and climb you must. You are highly ambitious and will work your way up with patience and hard work - exactly like the mountain goat that represents your Zodiac sign. You have an admirable sense of discipline and a good head for managing finances. Most of you are self-contained and tend to carve your own way. Those who know you well will admire you for your sense of duty, your selflessness in service and your devotion. Although not exactly the centre of attraction at parties, you have a sense of humour that many find attractive. You are sure-footed and most of your productivity is the result of the confidence you bring to your work. You tend to spend far too much energy in being the achiever. You also tend to be moody and fairly self-destructive.
Capricorn Lover
Your ardent and incurabe romantic yearning for true love, which is checked by Saturn -- the stern planet of discipline. It commands you to be calm, practical and serious. To top it all your practicality and sensibility ensure that you snag the right partner in marriage who can be a good parent and do you proud. Those belonging to the zodiac signs of Taurus, Scorpio and Virgo will make good partners for Capricorns. Nevertheless, love for a stable home and loyalty towards the spouse are your primary concerns. Man or woman, Capricorns love their home, but they are reverent about family ties -- be these their own or the ones created with the partner. If you marry a Capri then be prepared to love your in-laws, no matter what. They seldom marry in haste and abhor divorce, but when it happens it is final.They are pretty good and strict parents always concerned with the best for their children's future.
Capricorn Professional
Capricorns make good business people. Shrewd and hardworking, it is unlikely that you will take any rash decisions. You are ambitious and even if you do not have a career of your own, you will make sure your spouse climbs the ladder. You are not up to too much competition and will work at your own pace and deliver the best you can. Capricorns will do well in the fields of academics, industry and even agriculture. Dealing with antiques is also a good profession for you. Money rarely comes to you as an unexpected windfall. It will come through hard work and it will come in a bit late. You should, however, settle down comfortably by the time you are in your early forties.
Capricorn Traveller
You love high places and blossom on mountains. Though you would love to go on a luxurious and comfortable holiday but you are equally frugal about spending money even on a holiday..and keep your expenses in check. Even on holiday you keep yourself disciplined and active; no overindulgence for you. You enjoy historical places and the romance surrounding them.
Capricorn Teen
The Capricorn lad will rarely find any leisure since he will be busy chalking out future plans. Serious by nature, he has no time for flippant socialising and has his mind on more important matters. Of course he doesn't want to be rude, but his passion for getting things done often makes him a little bossy. In his leisure time the Capricorn boy loves to indulge in competition, especially in sports, and he finds it very difficult to cope with defeat. For that he needs the support of his compatriots. One-to-one competition also appeals to him. Practical and reliable, he can be trusted with any new responsibility. At the end of the day, a Capricorn boy likes to be surrounded by the spoils of his success. He has been striving for it all through the day. Someday his toils will pay off and he will rule the world.
Anyway, gotta go back to my work, Carpe Diem!
One of the warrant officers said I looked angry and asked why. He should have known why.
Not just one, but several of my friends commented that I appear... emotionless and dead.
I wish I could tell them why, when I dun even know what's happening to myself.
Well at least the release of Jay's new album Capricorn lifted my spirits a little. As a fellow Capricornian, this title has a certain relevance to me haha.. Anyway, came across something interesting so I shall post it here...
Capricorn Personality
Capricorns are diligent, conscientious, hardworking and cautious, seldom allowing themselves any sort of permissiveness; this makes them among the most reliable people to work with. You endure hardship well and can be very tolerant, slogging your way up life's steepest climbs and climb you must. You are highly ambitious and will work your way up with patience and hard work - exactly like the mountain goat that represents your Zodiac sign. You have an admirable sense of discipline and a good head for managing finances. Most of you are self-contained and tend to carve your own way. Those who know you well will admire you for your sense of duty, your selflessness in service and your devotion. Although not exactly the centre of attraction at parties, you have a sense of humour that many find attractive. You are sure-footed and most of your productivity is the result of the confidence you bring to your work. You tend to spend far too much energy in being the achiever. You also tend to be moody and fairly self-destructive.
Capricorn Lover
Your ardent and incurabe romantic yearning for true love, which is checked by Saturn -- the stern planet of discipline. It commands you to be calm, practical and serious. To top it all your practicality and sensibility ensure that you snag the right partner in marriage who can be a good parent and do you proud. Those belonging to the zodiac signs of Taurus, Scorpio and Virgo will make good partners for Capricorns. Nevertheless, love for a stable home and loyalty towards the spouse are your primary concerns. Man or woman, Capricorns love their home, but they are reverent about family ties -- be these their own or the ones created with the partner. If you marry a Capri then be prepared to love your in-laws, no matter what. They seldom marry in haste and abhor divorce, but when it happens it is final.They are pretty good and strict parents always concerned with the best for their children's future.
Capricorn Professional
Capricorns make good business people. Shrewd and hardworking, it is unlikely that you will take any rash decisions. You are ambitious and even if you do not have a career of your own, you will make sure your spouse climbs the ladder. You are not up to too much competition and will work at your own pace and deliver the best you can. Capricorns will do well in the fields of academics, industry and even agriculture. Dealing with antiques is also a good profession for you. Money rarely comes to you as an unexpected windfall. It will come through hard work and it will come in a bit late. You should, however, settle down comfortably by the time you are in your early forties.
Capricorn Traveller
You love high places and blossom on mountains. Though you would love to go on a luxurious and comfortable holiday but you are equally frugal about spending money even on a holiday..and keep your expenses in check. Even on holiday you keep yourself disciplined and active; no overindulgence for you. You enjoy historical places and the romance surrounding them.
Capricorn Teen
The Capricorn lad will rarely find any leisure since he will be busy chalking out future plans. Serious by nature, he has no time for flippant socialising and has his mind on more important matters. Of course he doesn't want to be rude, but his passion for getting things done often makes him a little bossy. In his leisure time the Capricorn boy loves to indulge in competition, especially in sports, and he finds it very difficult to cope with defeat. For that he needs the support of his compatriots. One-to-one competition also appeals to him. Practical and reliable, he can be trusted with any new responsibility. At the end of the day, a Capricorn boy likes to be surrounded by the spoils of his success. He has been striving for it all through the day. Someday his toils will pay off and he will rule the world.
Anyway, gotta go back to my work, Carpe Diem!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
魔杰座
魔杰座 - 說好的幸福呢
說好的幸福呢 周杰伦
你的绘画凌乱着
在这个时刻
我想起喷泉旁的白鸽
甜蜜散乱了
情绪莫名的拉扯
我还爱你呢
伴你断断续续唱着歌
假装没事了
时间过了走了
爱情面临选择
你冷了却了我哭了
一开始的不快乐
你用卡片拭写着
有些爱只给到这真的痛了
怎麽了
你累了
说好的
幸福呢
我懂了
不说了
爱淡了
梦淹了
开心与不开心 一一叙说着
你在不舍那些爱过的感觉都太深刻
我都还记得
你不等了
说好的
幸福呢
我错了
泪干了
放手了
后悔了
只是回忆的音乐和还旋转着
要怎么停呢
說好的幸福呢 周杰伦
你的绘画凌乱着
在这个时刻
我想起喷泉旁的白鸽
甜蜜散乱了
情绪莫名的拉扯
我还爱你呢
伴你断断续续唱着歌
假装没事了
时间过了走了
爱情面临选择
你冷了却了我哭了
一开始的不快乐
你用卡片拭写着
有些爱只给到这真的痛了
怎麽了
你累了
说好的
幸福呢
我懂了
不说了
爱淡了
梦淹了
开心与不开心 一一叙说着
你在不舍那些爱过的感觉都太深刻
我都还记得
你不等了
说好的
幸福呢
我错了
泪干了
放手了
后悔了
只是回忆的音乐和还旋转着
要怎么停呢
Friday, September 19, 2008
Tip of the Iceberg
Tip of the Iceberg
Attended a 3 hour seminar conducted by the famous online trader, Conrad Alvin Lim at Adam Khoo Learning Techologies Group yesterday night.
Interestingly, I listened and enjoyed every minute of that 3 hours; unlike my naps during lectures in NJC=X
I also realized that what I have learnt so far is only the TIP OF THE ICEBERG.
However, that does not discourage me from learning EVEN MORE about the art and science of investing. The very thought of acquiring this essential life skill excites me! Like I said, its not about the money, but the fun of earning it purely from NOTHING=P (other than a laptop and a few clicks of the mouse)
Attended a 3 hour seminar conducted by the famous online trader, Conrad Alvin Lim at Adam Khoo Learning Techologies Group yesterday night.
Interestingly, I listened and enjoyed every minute of that 3 hours; unlike my naps during lectures in NJC=X
I also realized that what I have learnt so far is only the TIP OF THE ICEBERG.
However, that does not discourage me from learning EVEN MORE about the art and science of investing. The very thought of acquiring this essential life skill excites me! Like I said, its not about the money, but the fun of earning it purely from NOTHING=P (other than a laptop and a few clicks of the mouse)
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Question #1
Question #1
When an average investor approaches you and asks you whether he should invest in stocks, bonds, unit trusts or REITs;
what is the best advice that you can give to an average investor?
"Don't be average."
When an average investor approaches you and asks you whether he should invest in stocks, bonds, unit trusts or REITs;
what is the best advice that you can give to an average investor?
"Don't be average."
Financial Firestorm
Financial Firestorm
The bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, takeover of Merrill Lynch by Bank of America and crisis of American International Group threw the financial world into chaos.
It is pretty much obvious that Standard & Poor 500 is still on the downtrend without showing any signs of consolidation, mostly contributed by the negative market sentiment. Even though, the market has yet fallen to its median value as the P.E ratio is still at 24.3x and considered overpriced.
Hmm patience and discipline, I must have...
"Risk comes from not knowing what you are doing" - Warren Buffett
The bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, takeover of Merrill Lynch by Bank of America and crisis of American International Group threw the financial world into chaos.
It is pretty much obvious that Standard & Poor 500 is still on the downtrend without showing any signs of consolidation, mostly contributed by the negative market sentiment. Even though, the market has yet fallen to its median value as the P.E ratio is still at 24.3x and considered overpriced.
Hmm patience and discipline, I must have...
"Risk comes from not knowing what you are doing" - Warren Buffett
Friday, September 05, 2008
Long Way
Long Way
My new learning journey has just started not too long ago. There is simply SO much to learn within the limited time span of 2 years. Hopefully by then I would have mastered the skills required and put them to good use. The age of 21 is such a common age limit for so many things. I used to be obsessed with efficiency but now I am taking a new interest in inefficiency, which is the very reason why others managed to achieve remarkable success.
Anyway, life is SISPEC Headquarters is really not bad. Not that kind which I really like, but guess I will get accustomed to it. Sometimes things dun go my way, but what matters is I learn to accept it and make the most out of it. Life is somehow similar to a game, where you experience ups and downs. Learn to accept the existence of 'bad' turns and it will seem alot less tough. I don't care if people find me childish despite being in the army, cause I live my life the way I want.
Its time to get rid of the Phantom menace.
My new learning journey has just started not too long ago. There is simply SO much to learn within the limited time span of 2 years. Hopefully by then I would have mastered the skills required and put them to good use. The age of 21 is such a common age limit for so many things. I used to be obsessed with efficiency but now I am taking a new interest in inefficiency, which is the very reason why others managed to achieve remarkable success.
Anyway, life is SISPEC Headquarters is really not bad. Not that kind which I really like, but guess I will get accustomed to it. Sometimes things dun go my way, but what matters is I learn to accept it and make the most out of it. Life is somehow similar to a game, where you experience ups and downs. Learn to accept the existence of 'bad' turns and it will seem alot less tough. I don't care if people find me childish despite being in the army, cause I live my life the way I want.
Its time to get rid of the Phantom menace.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Irritated
Irritated
I dun really like it when people around me doubt my judgement. It's like, hello, I have probably read more and know more than you do on that particular subject and who do you think you are to tell me on what I should do with my own money. It's not as if I ASKED you how to manage my money in the first place. Likewise there's no need for you to tell me anyway. Bleah.
The definition for 'fear of losing' has changed for me, I realised. In the past way back to my childhood days it meant the fear of failure to achieve what I desired, top scorer in class for instance. The significance of this term changed when I was a teenager, when I interpreted it as the fear of losing something intangible like relationships and memories for example.
Something like losing my friendships just because I am not physically there with my loved ones in universities or my buddies in different army camps. I felt mere mobile communication wasn't enough; or worse still, if there's no mobile contact at all. Maybe having friends isn't such a good idea after all, because I will lose them anyway. The statement "We meet to part" is often very true.
I am still trying to register the idea of a higher being who created us, who loves us for simply being who we are and one who sacrificed for us. It sounds too good to be true. I am wary of believing again, especially when things went horribly wrong, way beyond my comprehension.
The brightest light casts the darkest shadow...
I dun really like it when people around me doubt my judgement. It's like, hello, I have probably read more and know more than you do on that particular subject and who do you think you are to tell me on what I should do with my own money. It's not as if I ASKED you how to manage my money in the first place. Likewise there's no need for you to tell me anyway. Bleah.
The definition for 'fear of losing' has changed for me, I realised. In the past way back to my childhood days it meant the fear of failure to achieve what I desired, top scorer in class for instance. The significance of this term changed when I was a teenager, when I interpreted it as the fear of losing something intangible like relationships and memories for example.
Something like losing my friendships just because I am not physically there with my loved ones in universities or my buddies in different army camps. I felt mere mobile communication wasn't enough; or worse still, if there's no mobile contact at all. Maybe having friends isn't such a good idea after all, because I will lose them anyway. The statement "We meet to part" is often very true.
I am still trying to register the idea of a higher being who created us, who loves us for simply being who we are and one who sacrificed for us. It sounds too good to be true. I am wary of believing again, especially when things went horribly wrong, way beyond my comprehension.
The brightest light casts the darkest shadow...
Friday, August 22, 2008
Approaching
Approaching
That day is approaching and there is nothing I can do to prevent it.
How I wish I could turn back time by just playing a piece of music, similar to what Jay Chou did in Secret.
So is it completely useless that I have learnt how to play that piece? I dun think so, at least I have found some comfort in music.
At least someone can provide more and make you happier than I do...
I believe the hardest thing to change in this world is the heart.
That day is approaching and there is nothing I can do to prevent it.
How I wish I could turn back time by just playing a piece of music, similar to what Jay Chou did in Secret.
So is it completely useless that I have learnt how to play that piece? I dun think so, at least I have found some comfort in music.
At least someone can provide more and make you happier than I do...
I believe the hardest thing to change in this world is the heart.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
I am _____.
I am _____.
Exciting event, and thanks to Darryl for bringing me there. The people there were so friendly and approachable:)
Under normal circumstances, people either like to seek pleasure or gain achievements, but one must understand that accomplishment of any of the things above can only bring temporary and not eternal satisfaction.
What is my purpose in life? Is there anything in this world worth living for? What will we do any of the things we value the most disappear from our lives? Is there anything that can stand the test of time?
I dunno, but I will never stop in seeking the truth...
Saturday, August 09, 2008
National Day
National Day
Singapore celebrates its 43th birthday today!!
As a young and able-bodied male who is currently serving National Service ever since 9th April, I have come to believe that today carries an extra special significance.
Why must I serve? The answer is simple. Because I want Singaporeans to be able to celebrate this day of every year; Sinagpore has come a long way to achieve the success which we enjoy today. And this wouldn't have been possible without an operationally ready force to protect the sovereignty and safeguard the dignity of our nation, our homeland.
During the university admission interview conducted by SMU earlier this year, one of the economics professor asked me if I would cross over to "greener pastures" should the opportunity arises. The other interviewees gave the "standard TYS" answers, citing the positive qualities of Singapore for instance good governance, clean environment and free from natural disasters.
To her question I simply replied, "Wherever I may go can never change the fact that I am from Singapore, and will always remain a Singaporean."
August 15th. The day when I shall wear my corporal rank. And wear it with pride. Ending this entry off with an entertaining video, so sit back and enjoy:)
Singapore celebrates its 43th birthday today!!
As a young and able-bodied male who is currently serving National Service ever since 9th April, I have come to believe that today carries an extra special significance.
Why must I serve? The answer is simple. Because I want Singaporeans to be able to celebrate this day of every year; Sinagpore has come a long way to achieve the success which we enjoy today. And this wouldn't have been possible without an operationally ready force to protect the sovereignty and safeguard the dignity of our nation, our homeland.
During the university admission interview conducted by SMU earlier this year, one of the economics professor asked me if I would cross over to "greener pastures" should the opportunity arises. The other interviewees gave the "standard TYS" answers, citing the positive qualities of Singapore for instance good governance, clean environment and free from natural disasters.
To her question I simply replied, "Wherever I may go can never change the fact that I am from Singapore, and will always remain a Singaporean."
August 15th. The day when I shall wear my corporal rank. And wear it with pride. Ending this entry off with an entertaining video, so sit back and enjoy:)
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Finally
Finally
Finally I can find some time for me to blog.
The previous weeks were the toughest times I experienced in my course so far. Before I continue, I would like to state that Echo company in SISPEC IS NOT SLACK AT ALL. There were countless times when I felt like giving up and wondered why am I here in the very first place. It is most fortunate that my section mates are most supportive and helpful, always showering me with words of encouragement. If it weren't for them, I have no idea how I could have overcome all these obstacles alone. Thanks guys!:)
Truthfully speaking, I was rather disappointed when I didn't make it to OCS when I received my posting order. However, things are different now. As time goes by, I realised that I am actually more suited to become a specialist instead. Interacting with people is one of the things I like to do and being a sergeant allows me to gain more opportunities to communicate and understand my men. This is what I want to and hope I can do. Moreover, to quote my staff sergeant: "Before you start thinking about becoming an officer, think whether you can be a good specialist first."
I agree with him completely.
Six months later, I finally mustered enough courage to read once again what was written on the letter. Only that this time round I managed to gain a deeper understanding of the true intention of the writer. My effort put in thinking through the nights in Pasir Laba camp, Mandai nature reserve and the forests of Pulau Tekong had finally paid off. I can see pieces of information falling nicely together to form a jigsaw puzzle. Alas, I really have no idea if any slightest trace of friendship can still be found in the aftermath of the moment of truth. The most painful emotion a person with pride can feel is shame. In any case, should the worst happen, I hope I will be mentally prepared to accept the consquences and shoulder the responsibilities.
Now that I have cleared the innermost doubt in my mind I can start preparations for achieving my dream:)
Finally I can find some time for me to blog.
The previous weeks were the toughest times I experienced in my course so far. Before I continue, I would like to state that Echo company in SISPEC IS NOT SLACK AT ALL. There were countless times when I felt like giving up and wondered why am I here in the very first place. It is most fortunate that my section mates are most supportive and helpful, always showering me with words of encouragement. If it weren't for them, I have no idea how I could have overcome all these obstacles alone. Thanks guys!:)
Truthfully speaking, I was rather disappointed when I didn't make it to OCS when I received my posting order. However, things are different now. As time goes by, I realised that I am actually more suited to become a specialist instead. Interacting with people is one of the things I like to do and being a sergeant allows me to gain more opportunities to communicate and understand my men. This is what I want to and hope I can do. Moreover, to quote my staff sergeant: "Before you start thinking about becoming an officer, think whether you can be a good specialist first."
I agree with him completely.
Six months later, I finally mustered enough courage to read once again what was written on the letter. Only that this time round I managed to gain a deeper understanding of the true intention of the writer. My effort put in thinking through the nights in Pasir Laba camp, Mandai nature reserve and the forests of Pulau Tekong had finally paid off. I can see pieces of information falling nicely together to form a jigsaw puzzle. Alas, I really have no idea if any slightest trace of friendship can still be found in the aftermath of the moment of truth. The most painful emotion a person with pride can feel is shame. In any case, should the worst happen, I hope I will be mentally prepared to accept the consquences and shoulder the responsibilities.
Now that I have cleared the innermost doubt in my mind I can start preparations for achieving my dream:)
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