Monday, May 31, 2004
HEY, YOUR KID JUST BIT ME! AND I'M NOT EVEN A POSTMAN.
From FOXNews.com:
Not keeping tabs on boisterous young children is rude, too, especially if they are kicking sand on or otherwise bothering other sunbathers, according to Ervin, co-author of the etiquette guide "Things You Need to Be Told."
"You should keep kids on a fairly tight leash, not just because they're bothering others but because of their own safety," Ervin said.
Apparently some parents are taking the advice quite literally, somewhat. Hey that's your kid there; you walk with them hold their small hands, not walk them like some pet golden retriever.
From FOXNews.com:
Not keeping tabs on boisterous young children is rude, too, especially if they are kicking sand on or otherwise bothering other sunbathers, according to Ervin, co-author of the etiquette guide "Things You Need to Be Told."
"You should keep kids on a fairly tight leash, not just because they're bothering others but because of their own safety," Ervin said.
Apparently some parents are taking the advice quite literally, somewhat. Hey that's your kid there; you walk with them hold their small hands, not walk them like some pet golden retriever.
Sunday, May 30, 2004
N is starting a blog, or so he says. Seeing is believing, and until then I will still be in shock.
Saturday, May 29, 2004
From arts.telegraph.co.uk:
"Am I beautiful? It depends on the day, it depends on my life. Beauty is not something you can count on. Usually, when people say you are beautiful, it is when there is a harmony between the inside and the outside. When you are happy and in love and when you have children, then maybe you are beautiful." says Emmanuelle Béart.
If this is the definition of beauty, I think, it is still humanly possible for me to work towards it; comforting only because it is not unachievable. In fact, this is the definition each of us knows in our hearts yet we remain slaves to the defined minority. Commercial modifications societal comparisons would run dry only if all women can come to accept it this way. This is not a standard set against other people's expectations, I define myself and so I feel. The true meaning of beauty, I probably need to convince myself some more.
"Am I beautiful? It depends on the day, it depends on my life. Beauty is not something you can count on. Usually, when people say you are beautiful, it is when there is a harmony between the inside and the outside. When you are happy and in love and when you have children, then maybe you are beautiful." says Emmanuelle Béart.
If this is the definition of beauty, I think, it is still humanly possible for me to work towards it; comforting only because it is not unachievable. In fact, this is the definition each of us knows in our hearts yet we remain slaves to the defined minority. Commercial modifications societal comparisons would run dry only if all women can come to accept it this way. This is not a standard set against other people's expectations, I define myself and so I feel. The true meaning of beauty, I probably need to convince myself some more.
Wednesday, May 26, 2004
"Bang me! Bang me! Oh why are you hesitating?!"
Another swell example of my usually-incoherent speech, most prevalent at this time of the year, pre-exams and full of grit. This could have been anywhere, in the bedroom or in the middle of the road. Sorry to disappoint, indeed my life couldn't have mustered up anything more salacious than the latter. I cannot deny I don't feel wasted with each passing day.
Another swell example of my usually-incoherent speech, most prevalent at this time of the year, pre-exams and full of grit. This could have been anywhere, in the bedroom or in the middle of the road. Sorry to disappoint, indeed my life couldn't have mustered up anything more salacious than the latter. I cannot deny I don't feel wasted with each passing day.
Berry good room, like the gur...
B, a male friend many sizes bigger than I, actually remarked couple days ago that he thinks Room 41 to be a creepy place. Supporting evidential statements ring to the tune of "No one uses the rooms nearby!", "There seems like you're the only one on this level!", "Don't stay too late!", "You better go home soon!" along with fervent disapproving head-shaking. He's not the first person to tell me this in recent days but my prior experiences tell me this room is definitely a far more comforting venue to be in than any of the rooms in the accountancy block, instinctively and otherwise. Here I don't even feel the need to lock the door.
B, a male friend many sizes bigger than I, actually remarked couple days ago that he thinks Room 41 to be a creepy place. Supporting evidential statements ring to the tune of "No one uses the rooms nearby!", "There seems like you're the only one on this level!", "Don't stay too late!", "You better go home soon!" along with fervent disapproving head-shaking. He's not the first person to tell me this in recent days but my prior experiences tell me this room is definitely a far more comforting venue to be in than any of the rooms in the accountancy block, instinctively and otherwise. Here I don't even feel the need to lock the door.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
The Regular at Room 41
The security guard has got to be the most underrated personnel on campus. Yes, even after the cleaners and their trash trolleys. Current circumstances have caused me to be in frequent, if not daily, contact with these men. Men who have never ceased to be friendly even with their peanut-sized pay packages (note service is not always about remuneration), men who never fail to stop an oncoming vehicle for a student and more so importantly, men who remain on our side despite campus administration pressures. Indonesian friend S deserves special mention at this juncture, for proudly taking on the role of our school's security guard in some short film although he better be more friendly during the shooting this coming Wednesday if he wants to better portray those men whose uniform he is donning.
The security guard has got to be the most underrated personnel on campus. Yes, even after the cleaners and their trash trolleys. Current circumstances have caused me to be in frequent, if not daily, contact with these men. Men who have never ceased to be friendly even with their peanut-sized pay packages (note service is not always about remuneration), men who never fail to stop an oncoming vehicle for a student and more so importantly, men who remain on our side despite campus administration pressures. Indonesian friend S deserves special mention at this juncture, for proudly taking on the role of our school's security guard in some short film although he better be more friendly during the shooting this coming Wednesday if he wants to better portray those men whose uniform he is donning.
Sunday, May 23, 2004
For Jeanette, because she liked it when she saw it
MAYBE BABY
maybe baby
am I thinking way too much.. not?
the way things are going, sanity is how
I convince myself of the eventual
ending, someday
maybe baby
can we be together now.. can we?
That which keeps us apart, will we
be able to overcome
it, somehow
maybe baby
all is meant to be.. isn't it?
you've got it going, I feel for you so much
the only thing that
keeps us apart,
is you, somewhat.
MAYBE BABY
maybe baby
am I thinking way too much.. not?
the way things are going, sanity is how
I convince myself of the eventual
ending, someday
maybe baby
can we be together now.. can we?
That which keeps us apart, will we
be able to overcome
it, somehow
maybe baby
all is meant to be.. isn't it?
you've got it going, I feel for you so much
the only thing that
keeps us apart,
is you, somewhat.
From Lifetimetv.com:
6. My philosophy on sex is best summarized as:
a. An act of expressing love between two people in a serious relationship.
b. Something precious that you should share only with your spouse.
c. Different things at different times. Sometimes it's about love; other times it's just a fun romp or a physical need.
d. An overrated activity.
A gem among quiz questions; doesn't this sum up just about everything? I came across this in my occasional quiz some time ago, and it stuck in my head so much that I got to post it. Quite coincidental was the fact that it also came up in the undertones of various conversations recently. Rather thought-provoking for a random question most females usually gloss over in fashion mags, especially so when my philosophy is faltering between options (no, not c.). Meanwhile I'll keep these ponderings for later, I've got enough ACCT301 queries on hand to keep me mentally stimulated for now.
6. My philosophy on sex is best summarized as:
a. An act of expressing love between two people in a serious relationship.
b. Something precious that you should share only with your spouse.
c. Different things at different times. Sometimes it's about love; other times it's just a fun romp or a physical need.
d. An overrated activity.
A gem among quiz questions; doesn't this sum up just about everything? I came across this in my occasional quiz some time ago, and it stuck in my head so much that I got to post it. Quite coincidental was the fact that it also came up in the undertones of various conversations recently. Rather thought-provoking for a random question most females usually gloss over in fashion mags, especially so when my philosophy is faltering between options (no, not c.). Meanwhile I'll keep these ponderings for later, I've got enough ACCT301 queries on hand to keep me mentally stimulated for now.
Saturday, May 22, 2004
The below comic appeared in yesterday's papers. My mom says it reminds her of our relationship. The dear sister concurs as usual.
Friday, May 21, 2004
For the past week, I have been spending most of my non-sleeping hours in school. Home has become almost just a Bed & Breakfast accomodation. Some semesters I prefer studying at home because I need not waste time on commuting between school and home, but I find a sick affinity with campus and pre-exams revision productivity this term. The only thing I dread, the after dark solitude. Being alone is not the issue here because I thrive in getting work done. I guess, it is my own mind that freaks me out. Well now N isn't the only one who thinks too much.
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
The washrooms in school are creepy at nights. I was in one cubicle tonight, and my imagination was on the threshold of running amok. It certainly does not help that I've noticed the school grounds have been strangely devoid of students come nightfall these couple days and that by chance, I had been told there was some show on tv tonight featuring our campus and its haunted tales. I've got to admit I'm definitely not in the league among those brave busty babes with guts and balls to boot.
Tuesday, May 18, 2004
I busied myself sending out resumes whenever I find spare time (somewhat a preferred task to much-needed revision) the last few days. I need to find a job (some internship some experience) and realistically, well to earn some money after I come back from India. Money, or rather the lack of, does push people beyond their supposed limits, in sending out bold unsolicited emails to random ad agencies. I got my first reply today, not an outright acceptance but it's relatively positive. I hope they will take me in, fingers crossed.
Monday, May 17, 2004
nocturnal creatures they were, living it up on a friday night.
The mamasan and her girls, frolicking in the
company of men and muffled tennis matches on
overhung tv sets. make believe
what is real, as real
as the icecold beer in hand.
are near misses, a street away. of you
split seconds - away from a friday night surprise, long awaited maybe
(This disrupts my calmed senses, when
I've only recently become used to the status quo)
so, settling for second best - dimmed
lights, amplified laughters
being merry. are but a notch below flawless indulgence
truth betold.
The mamasan and her girls, frolicking in the
company of men and muffled tennis matches on
overhung tv sets. make believe
what is real, as real
as the icecold beer in hand.
are near misses, a street away. of you
split seconds - away from a friday night surprise, long awaited maybe
(This disrupts my calmed senses, when
I've only recently become used to the status quo)
so, settling for second best - dimmed
lights, amplified laughters
being merry. are but a notch below flawless indulgence
truth betold.
Thursday, May 13, 2004
There are movies more gory than this, but this video does not shock us in visual bloodshed. It is disturbing because it is real. I had just watched the grainy video in its entirety. We probably won't ever know what ran through Nicholas' mind when the statement was read out for ages in a foreign tongue he couldn't understand or when he was shoved-pushed to the ground with a large knife sawing at his throat. His screams were enough to remind us of the senseless barbarity man is capable of and of this chilling episode.
If indeed Islamic militants believe they were doing the right thing amid shouts of "Allahu Akbar!" in standing up to the Abu Ghraib abuses, why then did they have to don scarves and ski masks? Why had they been afraid to reveal their identities in the ultimate videoed faith-proclaiming act? Blatant cowardice, I see it as. They knew they were in the wrong; They knew the Holy Koran doesn't advocate this. I hope Nicholas' piercing final screams will wake those imbeciles up from their martyr's dream of eternal life and its 72 virgins.
Wednesday, May 12, 2004
POLICEMEN ARE ENTITLED TO HOLIDAYS AS WELL
With the friendly law enforcement officer in question away at Mount Ophir for Friday and the weekend, we can only decide on the new date for statement-recording after he comes back. Nobody seems to appreciate the humor in the situation, I think I am the only person who finds it laughable.
With the friendly law enforcement officer in question away at Mount Ophir for Friday and the weekend, we can only decide on the new date for statement-recording after he comes back. Nobody seems to appreciate the humor in the situation, I think I am the only person who finds it laughable.
Tuesday, May 11, 2004
CARROTS
When life gets stressful, I tend to go into the Live-by-the-day mode, and it usually works! Better to break up the bothersome negativities into manageable portions, than collapse under their sheer weight, I suppose. In a way, this treatment has caused me to think too lightly of impending disasters. But since there is no other way out, this has to be the right way of dealing with such. The seasonal mentality revisits this time yet it can get no better than this, a dangling carrot of intoxicating wala wala proportions come Friday. My usual lethargy has been postponed, almost certainly (as exemplified in a more than enthusiastic work attitude past 2:30 AM).
When life gets stressful, I tend to go into the Live-by-the-day mode, and it usually works! Better to break up the bothersome negativities into manageable portions, than collapse under their sheer weight, I suppose. In a way, this treatment has caused me to think too lightly of impending disasters. But since there is no other way out, this has to be the right way of dealing with such. The seasonal mentality revisits this time yet it can get no better than this, a dangling carrot of intoxicating wala wala proportions come Friday. My usual lethargy has been postponed, almost certainly (as exemplified in a more than enthusiastic work attitude past 2:30 AM).
Sunday, May 09, 2004
HAVE WE BEEN TALKING TOO MUCH, NO?
My almost-daily conversations with N have led me to conclude that mobile handsfree accessories form one of the major accomplices to profiteering mobile service providers. As we indulge in conversations of every possible nature, I am charmed into the prospects of not having to press the mobile onto my ear and endure the escalating chemical scorch of the battery. Conversations last longer, and so do the figures in our monthly bills. I probably shouldn't shift all the blame onto the handsfree since we two talk long enough even without the gadget. I must admit we do enjoy each other's (verbal) presence... hmmm is there an easy way out of this?
My almost-daily conversations with N have led me to conclude that mobile handsfree accessories form one of the major accomplices to profiteering mobile service providers. As we indulge in conversations of every possible nature, I am charmed into the prospects of not having to press the mobile onto my ear and endure the escalating chemical scorch of the battery. Conversations last longer, and so do the figures in our monthly bills. I probably shouldn't shift all the blame onto the handsfree since we two talk long enough even without the gadget. I must admit we do enjoy each other's (verbal) presence... hmmm is there an easy way out of this?
Saturday, May 08, 2004
BOOTCAMP, BABY
Midshipman second class R has a lower alcohol tolerance than the friend he was supposed to initiate yesterday night. No doubt we had fun but we will have to do more to ensure that he gets better. Listen up R, no more beach afternoons for you or post-drinks bak kut teh to sober you up. Next time we are going to do it ruff tough, USMC-style. I probably will have to get you a Waterfall as a farewell test, or treat.
Midshipman second class R has a lower alcohol tolerance than the friend he was supposed to initiate yesterday night. No doubt we had fun but we will have to do more to ensure that he gets better. Listen up R, no more beach afternoons for you or post-drinks bak kut teh to sober you up. Next time we are going to do it ruff tough, USMC-style. I probably will have to get you a Waterfall as a farewell test, or treat.
Wednesday, May 05, 2004
L dreamt of M and I last night. More importantly, she had dreamt of him too. In L's dream, he had tapped her on the shoulder, and she was surprised that he had appeared. L queried him on the cause of his death, of all things, to which he had replied in jest, "My heart had vomitted, that's why." L didn't manage to query him more, like if he had visited his family at all. No idea what I was doing in the dream, other than parking a professor's car without the required coupon and then getting booked by a traffic police officer. L doesn't make much sense, does she? Then again, who does, in dreams. Never mind about all the other fancy details, what matters is that he seems to be doing ok wherever he is at, well enough to crack jokes even.
Sat May 07, Approx 08:30:00 PM Update: The police called me up when I least expected it, I might have to make a trip down to the station one of these days for a statement.
Sat May 07, Approx 08:30:00 PM Update: The police called me up when I least expected it, I might have to make a trip down to the station one of these days for a statement.
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
N and I had a great, insightful online conversation just; it felt nice to know that at least I can be an opinionated friend and listening ear since he had been there for me at other times. This totally encompasses what friendship is all about. Well now, I better get back to the books, and do as I've been advised - work hard.
Monday, May 03, 2004
This one so cracks me up, that's why it's here. Don't bother checking out the rest because they are plain crass, just a load of cursin' and swearin'.
From Viceland.com:
All your bad secrets. Everything you've ever done that you want to forget. Every silent fart you ever had. It's all in his hair. It's all in his bread dread portable bed that he carries everywhere he goes. That and billions and billions of tiny bugs.
From Viceland.com:
All your bad secrets. Everything you've ever done that you want to forget. Every silent fart you ever had. It's all in his hair. It's all in his bread dread portable bed that he carries everywhere he goes. That and billions and billions of tiny bugs.
The promised entry on Morning Sun didn't materialize, partly a result of overwhelming workloads and ongoing procrastination. Once I find time after school term ends, I hope to read up more on the cultural revolution. It is a period in history I am ashamed to say I know so little of, being Chinese (race, not nationality) and after near-entanglement into its ways, if my mother had not fled communism's closing doors, at age 10. Compared with knowledge of history elsewhere, I have to admit I am equipped with pathetic pieces of modern Chinese history and random vacuum in between, to say the least. I need to know how everything flows in its rightful paths - Kuomintang, Long March, Mao, Soong sisters, Nanjing massacre, Yuan Shikai - and eventually evolves into the cross-straits relations today. For now, here is the excerpt I saw on tv that got me started and a commendable Village Voice review.
From Morning Sun:
Song Binbin, the young female student who first pinned a Red Guard armband on Mao Zedong in 1966, signaling the Chairman's support for the Red Guards. In the interview granted to the makers of Morning Sun, Song recounts for the first time how the Communist media fabricated a name for her in order to whip up popular frenzy for the Cultural Revolution, and how the resulting rumors about her have affected her life ever since.
From Morning Sun:
Song Binbin, the young female student who first pinned a Red Guard armband on Mao Zedong in 1966, signaling the Chairman's support for the Red Guards. In the interview granted to the makers of Morning Sun, Song recounts for the first time how the Communist media fabricated a name for her in order to whip up popular frenzy for the Cultural Revolution, and how the resulting rumors about her have affected her life ever since.
Sunday, May 02, 2004
There is this spot on the sixth floor of the accountancy block, openair stairs that link up to the school of business building. Perfect view of the Bukit Timah forested landscape, perfect basking in the setting sun. It's so surreal I could pace abit then sit on the steps taking all of these in, and talking to you. When these are the little pleasures that matter, tell me what more can I ask.
Saturday, May 01, 2004
I tell myself life doesn't just hinge on phonecalls, I miss hearing from N.
