Precocious Little Clover Devil

Shifting

2008-02-14T23:56:00.004+08:00

That's it, I'm official sold to wordpress (it's such a beauty, and a ease to use, who can resist?). So, der friends, please update your bookmarks and head over to Precocious Devil on Wordpress, regular transimission will resume from there.

Thank you for your support, and I hope to have our continued readership. =)

Gavin signing out to shift stuff over.

Happy together

2008-02-12T21:40:00.000+08:00

Funky old school video! Bring on the loud suede suits, the fluffy, puffy hair, the psychedelic backdrops. No matter what people say, the 1960s had so much character and colour. And of course, who can resist a cheery song with equally happy lyrics (not to mention the million or so movies which had used this song). It was the time of austin powers! (ahem... excuse the outburst) The 60s, the time of much political troubles, and also a time of the movement to seek expression.

Happy Together
The Turtles

Imagine me and you, I do
I think about you day and night, it's only right
To think about the girl you love and hold her tight
So happy together

If I should call you up, invest a dime
And you say you belong to me and ease my mind
Imagine how the world could be, so very fine
So happy together

I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life

Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it has to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together

I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life

Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it has to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together

Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba
Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba

Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it has to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together

So happy together
How is the weather
So happy together
We're happy together
So happy together
Happy together
So happy together
So happy together (ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba)

If nothing, check out this mighty cheery song.

A passing

2008-02-09T23:54:00.000+08:00

The passing of a relative is always a sad event. Though I was not very close to my grandfather, the death is still an event of mourning.

Amidst all the sadness, the most important question remains, "What did he love most about being alive?"

I'm sure the importance of a passing is the legacy one leaves behind, so let's remember what he wanted to say and do when he was alive and hold it in our hearts.

-----

I have to jet over to Malaysia, so I might be uncontactable in the meanwhile. My phone will still be available, though.

He loves to ****

2008-02-09T00:29:00.000+08:00

This is freaking hilarious. Censor the appropriate bits and the mind fills in the blank to create something totally out of context. Oh gosh, who'd have known Sesame Street had hidden innuendo aplenty?

Do you know... Powerpont?

2008-02-05T16:55:00.000+08:00

"I need someone well versed in the art of torture. Do you know... Powerpoint?"
Hands up all you who've had spasms and nightmares using that progam, and thinking it was hell's little idea of a sick joke. Now we all know the truth!
Well, that's not the worst of the lot, there's open office! Hire me, hire me. Torment beyond human endurance I will bring.

"I need someone well versed in the art of torture. Do you know... Powerpoint?"

Hands up all you who've had spasms and nightmares using that progam, and thinking it was hell's little idea of a sick joke. Now we all know the truth!

Well, that's not the worst of the lot, there's open office! Hire me, hire me. Torment beyond human endurance I will bring.

Project Whatchamacallit the road bump

2008-02-05T11:47:00.000+08:00

There's too many ideas, too many possibilites, too many options. This one's good, that one's good, this one's too flashy, that one's too cheesy, those could be just a little bit creepy. How do I decide, how do I decided?

Hmm... What did style was it supposed to be in again? Oh gosh, I'm lost in aesthetics, stylistics, linguistics, interpretation, and what do you like?

I should have figured that out first, silly, silly. So... What's good, what's great?

I know! Fsck it, I'll just procastinate on it until something hits. *smug*

2008-02-04T23:45:00.000+08:00

Kissing a Fool
Michael Buble

You are far
When I could have been your star
You listened to people
Who scared you to death
And from my heart
Strange that you were strong enough
To even make a start
You'll never find
Peace of mind
Till you listen to your heart

People
You can never change the way they feel
Better let them do just what they will
For they will
If you let them steal your heart from you
People
Will always make a lover feel a fool
But you knew I loved you
We could have shown them all
We should have seen love through

Fooled me with the tears in your eyes
Covered me with kisses and lies
So bye-e-e-e
But please don't take my heart

You are far
I'm never gonna be your star
I'll pick up the pieces
And mend my heart
Strange that I was wrong enough
To think you'd love me too
You must have been kissin' a fool
I said you must have been a-kissin' a fool

But remember this
Every other kiss
That you'll ever give
Long as we both live
When you need the hand of another man
One you really can surrender with
I will wait for you
Like I always do
There's something there
That can't compare
With any other

You are far
When I could have been your star
You listened to people
Who scared you to death and from my heart
Strange that I was wrong enough
To think you'd love me too
You must have been kissin' a fool
You must have been kissin' a fool
You must have been kissin' a fool

Watch this space

2008-02-02T17:13:00.000+08:00

After getting absolutely incensed at my futile efforts in creating a decent layout from blogger's (grrr! Thanks a million blogspot.....) widget template, I am here, 5 hours poorer and not much better for moods, and abslutely fuming. Well, it's back to the good old design I love so very much.

At times like this I feel like abandoning blogspot, except for the fact that it's the only blog of mine which supports javascripts.

In other news, the Singapore Grandprix has been finalized. 8pm flag-off slated for the inaugural Singapore GP. The first night race in the calendar, and it's going to be in sunny Singapore. Remember folks, come the week of 28th September, Formula One, great times.

Watch this space: Precocious Devil @ wordpress

Who knows what the future might hold =)

Ringo Kit Kat, Kingdom hearts and Project whatchama

2008-02-02T01:32:00.000+08:00

The ringo Kit Kat (available at Isetan) was delicious, even thogh I was severly disappointed that the Hokkaido fair has beeen replaced with cny stalls.

Time to welcome back Sora, Goofy, Donald, Kairi and Riku. I have a whole bunch of picture from te new artbook to use in the blog template, but I can't bear to damage the book by scanning it in. Either I find the pictures online or I just settle with what I have.

Nonetheless, I've always loved this picture, it's so fun and mischievious.

The bubbly lady at build a bear insisted I was Japanese. I'm quite flattered, but I'm sorry to disappoint.

Onward with Project "Give it my all, otherwise don't give at all, hope for the best, the rest is up to fate and destiny, so don't get nervous."

Need sleep.

Whuthering Heights

2008-01-30T23:31:00.000+08:00

7. Whuthering Heights, Emily Bronte

7 / 25
(28.0%)

The haunting imagery the title conjures by reputation undoubtedly leads the reader into having expectations to the predisposition of the novel. A story of horror, chilling and frightening proportions that is undeserved. This is no supernatural story, despite the hints hidden within the pages, but I must admit, it is extremely chilling. This is the first time I read of a love so instense (notwithstanding, the fact that I'm new to love stories).

That is not all there is to the book. Vengence, a life long vendetta to wreck havoc on his enemies, made Heathcliff one of the most striking characters portrayed. Bronte's work is a superb work emotion, and there is no lack of it to leave the reader bored. Page after page is chocked full of passion and conflicts. The chaos of the relationship between the inhabitants of the Heights and the Grange.

2008-01-29T23:38:00.000+08:00

Cook them with a dash of spice,
The magic mastro,
the roll of dice,
Serve up the devil's bistro.

The light fantastic sweeps,
the purple glow softly creeps. Magical, the wonderful, the phantasm surprise of a greater height.

Force the pink garment,
the green atmosphere, the purple haze-mist.

Sneaking up on you, leave you breathless, say.

Eh... Evil enabler!?

2008-01-27T22:35:00.000+08:00

So who am I kidding when I claim "let's get down to business". So yeah, I'm back here, I managed to catch This film is not yet rated with Mei today. (She chose the show based on the title... haha. Hey, I still wanna catch Mr. Average (Comme tout le monde))

TFINYR, another film in the likes of zeitgeist and Google Spider goats. Of course TFINYR doens't dwell as much on conspiracy theories as the latter 2, but they cover common ground - control of information and dubious standards. Listen folks, violence is perfectly fine, just leave out the gore, but making love is less acceptable. I used to hear an adage, make love not war, now it seems war is preferred to sex. It's ridiculous to the point of absurdity. Watch it, if only for the extended sex sequence from Team America. 3 thumbs up!

The past few weeks, the prospects of going on a darker wilder path presented itself and it's pretty tempting, like, the dark I used to know was a dull shade of colour I had, but this dark is dark hues of ever other colour there is. ADM, that place has people who are interesting, maybe people who cna lead me to shed my inhibitions.

So I got myself the Kingdom Hearts art book today, which is absolutely smashing. It's almost like finding certain parts of myself that I didn't even realize I left behind. Certain beliefs and emotions that are part of my core, like fighting against the bad guys for the greater good!

Light at the end of the tunnel!

Given the hope, that no reply might not be really no reply, just not replied yet. What would it say?

I don't know, but now, even till this day, you still make butterflies appear in my stomach. All nervous and tentative, even though I'm the evil enabler. Evil creatures still feel the pressure to impress, and of course, they do screw up and act weird at times too.

Remember Gavin, not the number of breaths, but the moments that take your breath away! Just one moment to take your breath away, would that be ok? Rather than trying to grasp at all the moments of breaths.

Ah... Nevermind me, I'm just a little inexplicably cheery at the moment.

2008-01-27T18:56:00.000+08:00

I should post something once in a while, least I get too lazy or some one lodges a missing persons report. Well, the blame hardly lies with laziness rather than the hectic schedule of the 4th semester in University. 2 days ending at 8pm, 3 presentations (2 out of 3 left), is amounting to no mean feat. Is it pertinent to demand an accelerated learning pace from every denizen of the locale more affectionately titled "the Universtiy"?

It would be nice if students could finish their education in a shorter time, however, I feel that it should not be a priority over having a sound, solid education that is a foundation for any student's future endeavours. The basics, at the end of the day is what knowledge is built on. The current model is pretty fine, the knowledge is all there, but it is imperitve to note that the basics need to be preserved, not just in writing but in the minds of the people as well.

It is rather neat to have the internet acting as the repository of human knowledge, but if no one has eer tried it or understand how it really is, then the information is rendered hardly more useful that some random words. Knowledge and experience, they go hand in hand. This is especially vital in fields which concern lives.

But that's beside the point.

As my forray into the pursuit of knowledge deepens, I'm coming into contact with topics such as the creation of a carbon-neutral building. Buildings which have a minimal impact upon the environment.

Seperately, western film histroy has taught me much about social commentary's presence in the medium of film. That's right, as long as human retain the right to the freedom of expression we can count on messages finding their way in spite of the barriers. The question I'm asking is how the American film industry is being controlled by 7 companies that have existed since the early 1900s.

Vertical integration they call it, where the company controls all aspects of the business. Production, distribution, and exhibition.

More on this later, work calls again.

2008-01-20T22:09:00.000+08:00

For want of something more entertaining, I present to you the Potter puppet pals.

I'd like to buy the world a coke

2008-01-15T23:49:00.000+08:00

I found this ancient coke commercail, and I really like the song. It's catchy and upbeat, and so cheery.

The rose

2008-01-14T00:00:00.000+08:00

Some years past on a random day, a rose I bring.
Kept in the bag, the scarlet blossom,
And words inside have yet to sing.
Things of emotion and floating flotsam,
Stirring the calm face of bravado.

I grasp my nervous heart,
and feel my tangled tongue.
Oh woe, oh dear, it's really hard.
Suspense filled seconds before the man is hung.
Oh shit, oh shit, what shall I do?

I have been preparing, bracing for this time.
There's no denying, the passion inside,
and now at the peak of our prime,
shall not remain in silence hide.
Resolute, onwards! Go!

Through the shelves, I saw her stand,
amongst the people sea, book in hand.
Her lithe figure, the most gorgeous apple of my eye, I spy.
"Hi!" I sigh.

The rose in my bag, it stayed.

---

Non-fiction, and that was four years ago. The eager young boy buying a flower for the first time in his life, holding it like some sacred item. I was early, and paced around till I was late. Lingering outside the book shop, that all too familiar, favourite haunt, and never quite plucking up enough courage. In the process, consigning a flower to its death, a slow suffocating sentence to exile in the litter bin.

Its a decision I still regret sometimes, especially now, I shudder at the thought, of history repeating once more.

It's a story, maybe it's a little story that would make you smile or chuckle a while, at a silly boy.

The 5 people you meet in Heaven

2008-01-13T22:37:00.000+08:00

6. The Five People you meet in Heaven, Mitch Albom

6 / 25
(24.0%)

Some friends give the weird look when they saw the book, which makes me ponder over how a wonderful work of fiction such as this can elicit those negative sentiments. To read that book is to exose yourself to a spiritual and somewhat religious experience, religious in the message it carries, not in its preaching of God. In fact, references to God is minimal.

In short, a book about causality, sacrifice, forgiveness, love and closure. It is a story that speaks to the heart, as you follow the protaganist through his tour of heaven, grouchy Eddide becomes the lovable uncle, the mentor that everyone seems to have.

Albom weaves a heart-warming story that reaches out regardless of age and prejudice, and every page leaves you wanting to read more, hoping for a happy ending for dear Eddie, ever suffering Eddie, that his anger, his frustrations and his pain could go away. The story loses momentum near the end, but that does not change the fact that it is an interesting read. A good wholesome book.

Mr Postman, Mr Postman

2008-01-12T23:48:00.000+08:00

The postman was working today, sending out letters to the mailboxes all over town. That was his job, and he was good at it. I know, because he delivers the letters on time, most of the time, of course he is due some manner of respite and runs late some times. Everyone loves him.

The time comes when you have to ask him a question. I asked "Mr. Postman, is there any letters for me?"

He said no. Along with him, the hopes fade away, on his scooter, Mr Postman resumed his duty.

I shrug my shoulders, I walk back in, expecting a mail, but it never came. It has been some time, this wait, hey wait, no reply.

4 winters gone by, four springs of wait. Patience, patience, what's a coupled more falls?

Otherwise, no reply is a reply.

2008-01-12T22:16:00.000+08:00

The Eastern Connection was quite an exciting and enjoyable film. That has got to be the most disturbingly violent movie I have watched this year (Well, even though the year is only 12 days old). Kudos to Mortensson's excellent portrayal of a Russian ganster/government agent?I still cna't get which side he's on character. The drama was intensely riddled with suspense and tension that keeps you guessing, and wondering. Is Nikoli going to kill Kirill, who's is this Nikoli character, Is Anna going to meet with any harm.

Sometimes when you enter a cinema without expectations from a film, you leave pleasantly surprised.

Smoke and Mirrors

2008-01-12T00:21:00.000+08:00

5. Smoke and Mirrors, Neil Gaiman

5 / 25
(20.0%)

The most delightfully devious and sweet bunch of stories yet from Gaiman. The wicked genius of the man, now presented in bite-sized chunks, and succeeds in capturing the beauty and wonder of the hidden worlds Gaiman is able to conquer in the mind. From real life to the fantastic, each short story in this anthology keeps one transfixed on the transcript. There is no short of intriguing creatures, foreign and familiar to entice the curiosity and imagination.

The finale, Snow, Glass, Apple, leaves me in shock, and in wide-eyed appreciation of the wonder Gaiman had penned in words.

Where?

2008-01-10T22:46:00.000+08:00

Let me repeat this for the benefit of those not in my Western Film History class.

"Only by knowing where we came from can we know where we are going." - Gavin

So, where do you come from, and where are you headed for? Do you know?

You have got to know, and you have got to believe, otherwise, what is the point of an existence? We exist to achieve the aim we set out with.

Some will succeed in their pursuit, many will experience failures before that. The thing is, perseverence and determination is necessary to strike a path to your destination, and every failure marks a learning point. Each fall only makes you stronger.

Musing

2008-01-07T21:30:00.000+08:00

Should I or should I not act?

Wait long enough and maybe my intention will be revealed.

In the mean time, let the imagination and the creative facility take flight.

=)

Hints of suffocation

2008-01-07T20:42:00.000+08:00

So. Bangkok in 5 days, and back just in time for 3 hours of sleep before the first bells of the new school semester starts. Totally exciting!

Bangkok was splendid, good times, and great food together with excellent company makes this an unforgetable experience.

I miss the place already, I miss the holidays and I miss Japan too. Travelling this much in a month surely does wonders for the monotony, and in the process, many valuable lessons in life were learnt.

For one, English is not the universal language, and the times where it failed us ranged from the hilarious to the downright infuriating. Communication is more than just the words, it burns with passion, emotion and the intent of the speaker. Language, it is a beautiful thing, and the thai language, so filled with melody, the inflection subtle and gentle. It carries with it an unmistakable charm and to the uninitiated it sounds wonderful.

That certain observation accentuates the chasm between the cultures (Not that I have a culture to call my own). There I am, an outsider, a foreigner musing at the intricacies of a language I hardly comprehend save for a few rare words. For one like myself, lost in the overwhelming tides of culture and heritage, I can only claim to be a world citizen. Not chinese, malay or whatever enough for the constituents of my blood. I guess that's one way I can savour and appreciate the other cultures more.

Without that which to compare it to, with that a more inquisitive and almost furtive mindset to absorb and understand the sights and sounds that make up a culture. Awestruck by the vibrancy of another's culture, yet slightly mortified at the prospect of losing them in the increasing globalization and increasing conformity that is demanded by the prevailing powers for the world to tailor to their needs and fancies.

Urban Bangkok resembles Singapore and Malaysia, and in Bangkok city, the ever expansion of the concrete jungle engulfs and displaces, resigning those unable to or unwilling to keep pace into the sprawling slums under the network of highways. Pushed into the outskirts are the slums, the shanty towns. If not for a little wrong turn, that sight would have escaped my notice. It is as if the grey shroud of modernization seeks to suffocate the colours and diversity of a culture.

Hopefully it can be preserved least one day the loss is mourned.

2007 in short

2008-01-01T20:48:00.000+08:00

Looking back at the past year, phew, what a ride!

Just like that, the date 070707 has left and not to reappear again. I always thought it would be exceedingly special for that day to be a significant event in life. I think I spent it like any other day. So that leaves me with 080808 090909 101010 111111 and 121212. I wonder if there is any chance of me getting married on any of those days.

I digress. In way of personal life, 2007 has been much more significant. It marks the first year in University, a new stage in life. Learning aplenty, about the human condition, about life, and striking a balance between achieving an objective and appealing to the masses. Perhaps a little too absorbed into my microcosm that is the University.

School aside, 2007 was the year of many new acquaintances, the freshies of winterhill, the smashing culties, and the extended 55 gang. All you interesting people, adding colour to the wonderful world.

Of course, 2007 was also a yea of heartbreak, the first in a long time, but nonetheless a valuable learning point. The best/worse part? That might have just been a sub quest, a half year long sub quest. Well, many of you already know, that endeavour ended in rejection, though, nothing really serious or damaging, in fact, I'm still great chums with her, yeah, Claire? (Hey, ouendan showdown still pending girl!)

2007 was a great year for discovery and exploration, to Japan, to Thailand, to the depths of the human psyche and back, knocked up and under, slapped straight in the face and alive to tell the tale. I'll be back you hear, as long as I still stand, I shall continue to stand for the right and protect the meek.

The world of course moves along as the year progresses. 2007, the great video game revival, the long awaited rejuvenation of the gaming scene finally arrives in style and panache. From Crisis to Gears of War to the DS, it was a wonderful time to be a gamer.

In the geopolitical scene, nothing much has moved, democracy takes a hit in Pakistan with the assassination of Bhutto. It stands to serve as a stark reminder of the nature of political games, that we cannot expect a civil and safe environment and expect the whole world to conform to that set of standard. People in their own hometown faced with their own problems will resort to their own conceptions of a solution to tackle it. In some case, that results in the loss of life.

That as they say is human nature.

Whilst on that very topic, nature shows no relenting in her display of protest. Freak weather, and receding polar caps topped the headlines as terrorism finally takes the backseat and settle for 2nd.

---

Indeed, 2007, a year just like any other, and also a year special in its unique way, for the memories, the emotions, the events and the contents paint a brilliant picture upon the millions and billions of lives that have been touched through the year. A masterpiece that traces the journey of 07 from dawn to dusk is filled with contributions from both you and I. The ties we forge become the palette to paint the canvas, the moments that take us in awe, the paintbrush, and the emotions and sensations the paint adorning the kaleidoscope of colours and patterns.

Each year, a new painting is hung on the wall, each year, renews the process of the artist that paints the picture of his life.

Sometimes, I stop to wonder, "What am I going to paint next?" At times, the laborious continum, of what to colour in next bothers me.

That's why I'm alive that's why we're alive; To figure out some semblence of purpose and meaning, and find the means to effect that.

Welcome 2008. My resolution would be to ovehaul my wardrobe.

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T01:21:00.000+08:00

Good bye 2007, and in we usher 2008.

Wishes and misses float away into the depths of the pages of time, and the yellowed pages of the tome labelled "past" turns to the new one named present.

Let's sing for joy and welcome the refrains of the song of the future.

To one and all, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hey there ___

2007-12-29T01:32:00.000+08:00

Hey there Delilah

Hey there Delilah
What's it like in New York City?
I'm a thousand miles away
But girl tonight you look so pretty
Yes you do
Times Square can't shine as bright as you
I swear it's true

Hey there Delilah
Don't you worry about the distance
I'm right there if you get lonely
Give this song another listen
Close your eyes
Listen to my voice it's my disguise
I'm by your side

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me

Hey there Delilah
I know times are getting hard
But just believe me girl
Someday I'll pay the bills with this guitar
We'll have it good
We'll have the life we knew we would
My word is good

Hey there Delilah
I've got so much left to say
If every simple song I wrote to you
Would take your breath away
I'd write it all
Even more in love with me you'd fall
We'd have it all

Oh it's what you do to me

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me

A thousand miles seems pretty far
But they've got planes and trains and cars
I'd walk to you if I had no other way
Our friends would all make fun of us
and we'll just laugh along because we know
That none of them have felt this way
Delilah I can promise you
That by the time we get through
The world will never ever be the same
And you're to blame

Hey there Delilah
You be good and don't you miss me
Two more years and you'll be done with school
And I'll be making history like I do
You know it's all because of you
We can do whatever we want to
Hey there Delilah here's to you
This ones for you

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me.

Oh oh
OOOoohhhh
Oh oh
Ooooooohhhhh
Oh Oh
OOOoohhhh
OOOOooohhhhh
Oh Oh

-----

This goes out to you. To that someone, only her name's not Delilah and the location's more inclined towards a tropical island city. Don't ask me why, for I only know you are the most wonderful thing, the most striking object in the world. There's no crime in being beautiful. Have I ever told you you were?

I'm a sucker for slow, nice melodies (The 4 musketeers were at Nick's place during Christmas and the other 3 started playing this little tune), and that song's stuck in my head at 1am.

----------

And to my regular readers, please tolerate this unprecedented outpouring of amorous sentiments. My friends tell me that expression is the key to the liberation of the heart.

Regular transmission ofthis blog should resume, once the author regains his composure and extricates himself from the current preoccupation with his DS. To all, Happy Holidays!

2007-12-23T21:57:00.000+08:00

Oh, there's a joy in a little sidequest, Shermy, just go along for the ride. Sometimes sidequests are much more interesting than the main. Sidequests are secret doors to alternate endings.

-----

And sometimes, people go on sidequests for fun, or simply just to see someone.

In the meantime, I hope you smile

2007-12-21T00:00:00.000+08:00

It happens to be a public holiday today, and the postmen most certainly are not working. When the postmen are not working, they fail to deliver certain letters, letters which hold inside their pages, words deep and cryptic, and perhaps, it would be safe to write those letters on such days.

Left in a contemplative mood, with the ambient music conducive to silent reflection. Wondering through the rose tinted glass of the current times, of things that were not to be; of times unfathomable in reality, resigned to the chapters of the imagination.

I'm thinking, how can I prove to the princess, the value of the longing with nothing much as a troll to slay. How can on prove one's devotion to prove a point in this day and age?

No answers for such a qestion. I bide my time, some more, for a sign or a chance.

It's difficult to find the thing to do, that's the price we pay, living in times like these.

Now that that's done with

2007-12-20T23:07:00.000+08:00

Not everything has to have a meaning, and sometimes, pointless escapades fill in the voids of our lives. Finding that looking to do something meaningful at every turn often leads to disappointment more than anything else. We should be entitled to say fuck off when something screwy is present.

I haven't had time to rest since my return from Japan, nor a reprieve from the bout of coughing, and all I wanted was some semblence of efficiency and effective working. I guess it's just too much to ask for in this day and age. That's the least I ask of, but it hardly gets fufilled. Either way, the event is over, and I can get down to getting my Japan photos up.

I still can't believe the sight I witnessed on the Tokyo Metro. there are stories of the insane crowds, nad yes, they were not works of fiction. The Tokyo subway is that packed. The most amazing part of it is that in spite of all the rushing tides of people, the commuters actually queued in front of the train door before the trains arrived. That is pretty incredible feat, considering that in Singapore, such are the makings of a mad rush for the train door.

Japan has left many deep impressions on me, and these are not merely a superficial image. I shall elaborate in due time.

In the meantime, I'm off to contemplate certain matters of the future with regards to me dutiy and responsibility.

2007-12-19T10:24:00.000+08:00

Learn about Ultrasound technicians

44%

Looking for payday loan?

Tadaima

2007-12-16T19:41:00.000+08:00

Tadaima minna-san!

I have returned from the land of the rising sun and it was thoroughly splenderific!

I'm still rather exhausted and there's Kid's World to attend to.

Watch this space for:

1. The chill of Fuji
2. Yukata night
3. Shinjuku
4. Harajuku
5. The night walks
6. Tokyo Tower/ Tokyo metro escapades
7. Ginza

P.S. Yes mei, I got you some stuff =)

A short note. Cheers

2007-12-09T09:07:00.000+08:00

There's a slight sense of neglect on this blog as the days get filled with ever increasing fun and merriment. The festive seasin draws closer each day, and the anticipation of even more instore.

Welcome back, Nick! 55 gang, let's pig out on glorious food and partah!

Let's randomized this island, Winterhill.

Time to crap with the archery juniors.

T3 pioneers, we must find more exotic cuisine, oh gosh, I'm losing track of time.

And the 3 musketeers sans Seng (Where art thou!?) are back together.

In this flurry of activity, I'm off to Nippon this evening. So, I have to bid you all "maate-ne!"

Japan Japan!

2007-12-02T11:53:00.000+08:00

I'm off to the lovely country called Japan, and I'll be in Tokyo next week. Does anyone one want anything from Tokyo?

And christmas cards, to my newest friends made over the past year in uni, I don't ahve most of your address, so those who'd like christmas cards, please drop me message and your address (please don't paste it onto the blog itself, otherwise your mail box might be spammed!)

Dead tired

2007-12-01T01:11:00.000+08:00

Winterhill went karaoke, the 3 guys became known as the uncles, and I now have a kbox card.

That aside, there's a bunch of crazies who sang themselves hoarse and went for hawker fare straight after.

It doesn't stop there! The escapes were continued on the grounds of Holland V. Eskibar was the haunt of choice, outside section of course, the ladies in their shorts could barely refrain from stampeding back out after a minute in the sub-zero inner bar. I personally find no sin in ordering a float in a bar, because I can't appreciate the taste of alcohol, and I can't finish a whole glass of whatever. In sips, the whatevers are tasty though, some sort of "sleepy polar bear" and something vaguely reminiscent of a screwdriver.

Now here comes the most incredulous part of the day, where after all that singing, all that food and drinking, 6 almost irrationally illogical young people headed to Cold Rock for desert. Oh gosh, must I describe how sinfully delightful it was? =)

Heck with the calories for this night, let's enjoy the company and drink (in this case, eat) in the moments of enjoyment. The range of ice-cream at Cold Rock is much more varied than that at Ice Cream Chefs, and we tried a few mixes, Ferrero ice-cream with some mix, that turned out subliminal, the nutty flavour tantalizing and teasing the tongue before lightly washing down the throat. The minty green mix with m&ms looked a little too adventurous to tempt me, and of course, the dark chocolate caramel mud pie + tim tam mix was simply chocolatey decadence.

Well what can I say, with me around, decadence is simply, an irrefutable constant.

I really am exhausted, signing off.

Angel of Death: He procrastinates

2007-11-27T23:19:00.000+08:00

Gareth: Those eyes, like dirty snow. I could never forget them.

Mario: Then you must go find her!

Gareth: I couldn't, I can't. She didn't turn up, perhaps, indication enough of her sentiments towards me.

Mario: I can never understand you. You long for this girl and you do not go after her.

Gareth: I am Mario, I am. Day after day, inching closer.

Mario: Day after day, pacing along the same spot, procrastinating?

Gareth: Silence

------

Oh yes, a revisit to my dear friend Gareth. Perhaps Gilphur shall make an appearance in the coming days?

Jung Test

2007-11-25T20:16:00.000+08:00

It's fun to take this once in a while.

Your Type is ENFP

Extraverted Intuitive Feeling Perceiving
Strength of the preferences %
44 50 38 33

ENFP type description by D.Keirsey
ENFP type description by J. Butt and M.M. Heiss

ENFP Career Choices Provides the list of occupations most suitable for your type taking into account the type formula and strength of the preferences. Based on a sample representing 40 most popular and high-demand occupations. Jung Career Indicator™
ENFP Lifestyle Preferences

Qualitative analysis of your type formula

You are:

* moderately expressed extravert
* moderately expressed intuitive personality
* moderately expressed feeling personality
* moderately expressed perceiving personality

The Portait of the Champion (ENFP)

The Champion Idealists are abstract in thought and speech, cooperative in accomplishing their aims, and informative and expressive when relating with others. For Champions, nothing occurs which does not have some deep ethical significance, and this, coupled with their uncanny sense of the motivations of others, gives them a talent for seeing life as an exciting drama, pregnant with possibilities for both good and evil. This type is found in only about 3 percent of the general population, but they have great influence because of their extraordinary impact on others. Champions are inclined to go everywhere and look into everything that has to do with the advance of good and the retreat of evil in the world. They can't bear to miss out on what is going on around them; they must experience, first hand, all the significant social events that affect our lives. And then they are eager to relate the stories they've uncovered, hoping to disclose the "truth" of people and issues, and to advocate causes. This strong drive to unveil current events can make them tireless in conversing with others, like fountains that bubble and splash, spilling over their own words to get it all out.

Champions consider intense emotional experiences as being vital to a full life, although they can never quite shake the feeling that a part of themselves is split off, uninvolved in the experience. Thus, while they strive for emotional congruency, they often see themselves in some danger of losing touch with their real feelings, which Champions possess in a wide range and variety. In the same vein, Champions strive toward a kind of spontaneous personal authenticity, and this intention always to "be themselves" is usually communicated nonverbally to others, who find it quite attractive. All too often, however, Champions fall short in their efforts to be authentic, and they tend to heap coals of fire on themselves, berating themselves for the slightest self-conscious role-playing.

Joan Baez, Phil Donahue, Paul Robeson, Bill Moyer, Elizibeth Cady Stanton, Joeseph Campbell, Edith Wharton, Sargent Shriver, Charles Dickens, and Upton Sinclair are examples of Idealist Champions

2007-11-24T00:50:00.000+08:00

Whilst browsing youtube, I manage to chance upon this

Erika's Destination nowhere PV. I must say she looks much better in this PV. (imo, she looked rahter trashy in Free). The straight hair, long dress look just complements her.

Though I wish she would stick to acting, it's rather annoying listening to the amounts of voice "enhancements" in that PV.

But it's alright, she's gorgeous.

I still prefer email and the post

2007-11-21T19:56:00.000+08:00

During the exams, there's a pressing need to make oneself scare on MSN, and it gives one an appreciation of the serenity and peace it offers for a change.

It makes me realize how much I miss using email and the post. On MSN, there's a pressure to reply to anyone who sends an IM (even though you're on busy), and well, sometimes it annoys when that IM comes in at an inappropriate moment (ie, in the middle of a queation you cannot solve).

Thus, I beseech and ask for forgiveness from my friends if I have neglected you on MSN. Email me, I'll be sure to reply to that. Better yet, drop me a letter, ensure that the postmen still have a job.

Otherwise, it'll really be a case of the post men not working.

A discourse on reason (edited)

2007-11-20T23:20:00.000+08:00

They say, the duty of a leader is to ensure the safety of the men. They also say that a leader is in a position to facilitate a process.

So why am I at such odds trying to consolidate the two of them?

I feel obliged and concern for my guys, and the matter of utmost concern is their welfare, or at least that is the predominant sentiment these days. I reckon I developed this sensitivity towards the end of my stint in NS, this soft-spot for the guys, people I've mentored, whom I've taken under my wing. That is quite a far cry from the me whose only concern was the objective.

It was a change for the better, spurned on by my mentor's words. Chye Ping he asked me once, "What do you look for in a team?" I believe my answer then was "achieving the objective". He disagreed, and he shared his formula, "team-building", adding that I was like a dictator.

Well, I've changed since then, perhaps too much. Lately, the realization that this obsession with zero attrition, and the absolute welfare of the guys is becoming counter-productive. Too soft, too weak, too unassertive. Little do they understand it's all with their interests and welfare in mind. Yet, there is validity in their unhappiness. There's no direction, in other words, it's like boarding up the room to prevent any attacks. Isolation.

If a leader goes nowhere, then, well, he's not leading is he? He has to go somewhere.

I guess, I'm on a journey to discover that key to this little struggle of mine.

Even though it was a struggle dating back longer now than it seems. The past year has been unkind, locating the psyche and mind in struggles and palces it was reluctant to go. Who was to say it was back then, then again, I knew.

I faltered and gave in to conformity, now I reel back at the high price on one's sanity and being.

Saturday, January 07, 2006

Well, I used to think that being an executive required you to care for your guys. I do not doubt the wisdom of those words, but perhaps, the execution was not carried out in the right manner. Who in the world thinks that there can be no loss of "life"?

I did.

It sounds rather immature and slightly foolish. Micro-managing, they call it. It demonstrates, a distrust in the guys, and it indicates that I have no faith in them.

Or is it because I don't even trust myself?

First, know what you want, then perhaps you can achieve it.

Micro-managing. It was in words all along. I should pay more attention and be more firm with my views. Damn conformity.

Found it!

2007-11-20T20:29:00.000+08:00

Th pose! It's too adorable, and simply irresistable.

Hare Hare Yukai

2007-11-19T17:53:00.000+08:00

I love the ending of Haruhi Suzumiya no yuutsu. If there's a girl who can what Haruhi did (the eyes closed hand circle in air move that is oh so adorable), I'll marry her.

OMGWTFBBQXOXO!?!?!

Rockman and Pikachu too!?

Ok, back to studying.

Edit:

Lucky star version!

2007-11-18T01:11:00.000+08:00

Sleepless. On a balmy night hardly ill suited for slumber, little left but to mull over the minutes till the Mr. Sandman's arrival.

It feels like one of those nights, where anything could happen, where the air is heavy with maigc and mystery. One of those nights where nothing proceeds, and nothing sits well. Something feels amiss.

-----

In the mean while, Osama has been spotted again.

Begins a journey

2007-11-17T00:32:00.000+08:00

Thus, a personal journey is mandated, a voyage to discover a greater meaning and purpose.

What could this intangible concept entail? The pursuit of truth is of much importance. To seek out the reality amongst the the half truths, and to uncover the lines between fact and fiction.

To stand for what is right and just, and uphold the moral tenets based on three pillars of belief.

1. Do not harm those weaker than yourself.
2. Do not harm the environment
3. Lend a helping where possible

Apart from that, to appreciate the beauty of nature and the natural order expressed in art and music. To praise the individuality as a celebration of the basis of existence. To find in the expression of music and art an expression of self.

2007-11-12T17:49:00.000+08:00

Another instance of a tragic-comedy. Haharhar... sniff.

Garfield is funny nonetheless.

Garfield Website

Seperated by 2 years, but still dedicated to you

2007-11-11T23:42:00.000+08:00

Star light, star bright.

A wondrous song of timeless peace
Sweet melody where lovers meet
And travellers sing its ancient tune
Beneath the sky and silver moon

The beautiful voice of the stars.

Sway the leaves on the great verdant crown
Gently stir the shadows on the ground
Ring out its earnest melody
Stirs forth such sweet memories

Resonating near and far.

Secret sonata hovering, lingering
Gentler than white down on swan's wings
Mr Sandman too, in courtesy bow.
Hush, hush, hear the lullaby now.

The test draws near, but rest now, sweet lady.

---
A poem writen two years ago. Original verse italicized.

Just watching the world change

2007-11-11T22:47:00.000+08:00

When we can afford the serenity to bask in the leisure of peace, we should exploit said godsend. That being said, I find it severely confounding that the urge to rush headlong into a mad rush continues to propagate. Strange enough, that sentence reminded me of lemmings dashing into the sea.

The relentless march of progress demands it! We, we are mighty humans, and we can change the world. We change the world and we demand instant results! Such selfless and noble pursuit of the betterment of mankind must not be scoffed at. No, no! The gradual asphyxiation is hardly a harsh price to pay for.

Could you bite the hand?
Steve Conte

Another gun for hire and just another day
When you are done, you just abuse it, whatever you say
If you were offered some, would you wanna bite the hand?
Would you betray a friend to prove you're cold, then walk away?

We were born with nothin', I don't want, but you need something
You want glory, I need none and it's coming between us

People are born with
People are born without
Some people have
And others want
What some go without
Some people live free
Some people just want more
As for me, I got all that I need

Do you still think that we're not brave if we don't bleed?
We've seen so much blood and violence already, how much do you need?
You howl and fight your war and talk of being free
Won't let you in, they're just usin' you, so why won't you see?

Some people are born so much closer to the sun
Holdin' out their hands and grabbin' golden rays, they are the chosen few
But we both know of course that's not you or me
And I'd be telling the truth if I said it don't matter, so how 'bout you?

Can you tell me really you don't need it, you don't want it
If you can, cool, if you can't, the difference between us

People are born with
People are born without
Some people have
And others want
What some go without
Some people live free
Some people just want more
As for me I got all that I need
Don't got much, but I got what I need

Some people are always reachin' for some things that they don't need
I'll tell you now with thoughts like that there will never be enough
Some people are always struggling for something that is not
I'll tell you something now that I'm really just fine lovin' what I got

I must profess, I am in no position to lecture on about the unpleasantness in life, but I urge what few readers I have to ponder that which transpires around us.

To take a moment of the unyielding routine of life, and contemplate our situation, to think about the world. What is your position, what is your purpose? Is there one?

We all need that particular guiding light to illuminate the path to self-dicovery and to fufilment beyond the physical. There's something everyone must believe it, some truth inside that pushes you onward, that encourages each tentative step in life.

Like what I beleived in years ago looking into the stars that night, hearing their sweet song. I thought it was sufficient if this life was spent watching the world change.

I still stand by that.

The dead terrorist.

2007-11-07T19:54:00.001+08:00

Achmed the dead terrorist! I KILL you!!!!!

Perry Bible Fellowship

2007-11-06T22:27:00.000+08:00

Have I ever introduced the perry bible fellowship to you?

http://pbfcomics.com

Time to get acquainted.

Articulating the real side of me

2007-11-05T22:54:00.000+08:00

5. Oliver Twist, Charles Dickens

5 / 25
(20.0%)

Took me forever to finish this book. It's not that hard a read to be honest, but I was somewhat hindered by unnecessarily dreary beginning. Once it proceeded past the formalities and into the plot proper, it made for an interesting read.

-----

Let's shift the focus back to real life as I found articulation to an indescribable thought hanging on my mind.

It seems that the most natural and uninhibited form of inflection occurs when there's an innocent and true expression of self. Such occurs often when one sincerely wishes to endeavour in aiding another.

In the midst of trying to help a friend, it hit me. The way to word it, because the advice I wanted to dispense applied to her.

(I promised my friend to keep her secret, so sorry folks, I can't reveal her identity.)

Friend: I'm afraid to cause unnecessary hurt and it's like impossible to pursue it when I'm not sure myself. What he thinks, and how I feel.

Me: You've got to try. (Wants to articulate something but fails)

A while later

Friend: Maybe you're just a good friend to her?

The epiphany strikes me then.

Me: That's it! The point is, how she feels, and what she thinks are already set, whatever's on her mind and what opinion she's formed has been formed, and that's not my call to worry about. Yes, that's it, it's not for us to worry about the other end, because that's already happened. It IS our prerogative to make the other party take notice, to change perhaps what is a bad opinion. In other words, it's not my job to worry if she likes me or not, my job is to DO something, something to impress, flatter or to change opinions.

Yes, that is it, to my friend and to myself. That's how it is. It's pointless worrying all day about how the other party feels. That borders on the brink of the obsessive compulsive. Something to be done. To do something, and in that process to ascertain truths and facts that I might be afraid to pursue, however, regardless of fear or reservations, that is much more constructive than contemplation, than just sitting and peeling petals saying "she likes me, she likes me not." It's bad for the flowers.

The truth is, certain opinions have been formed, be it in my mind, your mind, or her mind. A revelation does not indicate a sudden change. Everything is a result of the times, over years, repressed and unable to find an avenue for expression. More importantly, nothing changes as well. Regardless of the outcome, it shouldn't change, for that change is admission that the goodwill, the kindness and the interest are merely devices, as the means to an end.

If the possibility of a negative reaction is strong enough to discourage or is the reality of an unrequited emotions is going to alter attitudes, and perhaps diminish the civility and generosity, then it would seem that whatever goodwill is premeditated, and intended only impress. That is vaguely shallow, and pointless.

For all intents and purposes, this earnest expression of affection is true and unburdened by ulterior motives. Hardly can I qualify myself to be a romantic, but I am a self-professed idealist who dreams of the pursuit of romanticism. I might fall, I might fail. Like a knight in servitude, without demand for anything in return, save for a piece of mind, that his charge is safe, and happy.

As I say, whatever happens, it changes nothing.

Especially not the fact that I'm still craving potato salad.

Remember the 5th of November

2007-11-05T21:47:00.000+08:00

Remember, remember the fifth of November
The gunpowder treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot.

Guy Fawkes, twas his intent
To blow up king and parliament.
Three score barrels were laid below
To prove old England's overthrow.

By God's mercy he was catched
With a dark lantern and lighted match.
Holler boys, holler boys, let the bells ring
Holler boys, holler boys, God save the King

The purpose of language

2007-11-03T23:03:00.000+08:00

"Language was invented for one reason, boys - to woo women - and, in that endeavor, laziness will not do." - John Keating

Indeed, words to elevate up to the highest peaks, to the gorgeous ladies that make much of youth. Language in its entirety serves only to communicate emotions and to find in that endeavour a opportunity and a privilege.

To flatter, to praise and exalt the object of one's fancies to the highest degree, that is the prerogative. One needs to display with the utmost eloquence and with the most dashing of styles a mastery of the gentlemanly and charming nature.

Of course that constitutes only part of the entirety of courtship. Words, as pivotal their purpose, merely initiates a much longer journey. Words for all their usefulness must be said, spoken and put into reality.

Someday, one would have to face the opportunity, the chance to express the words, emote them with the passion and feelings one harbours for the rose of one's eye.

As they say, romance is hardly rationale and barely logical. That is why the success anf failure can never be reduced to mere formulas. Whether it shall bear any fruit or result in any union, depends very much upon nothing but feelings and the connection of the soul. Pure unadultered longing that sings the tune of the other.

It's magical. And that is enough to sustain the rapturous expanse of emotions that it comprises of. Whether it be a endeavour in vain or a mutual undertsnading.

Ode to Joy

2007-11-03T21:26:00.000+08:00

An die Freude
Friedrich Schiller

German original

Freude, schöner Götterfunken,
Tochter aus Elysium!
Wir betreten feuertrunken,
Himmlische, Dein Heiligtum.
Deine Zauber binden wieder,
Was die Mode streng geteilt,
Alle Menschen werden Brüder,
Wo Dein sanfter Flügel weilt.

Chor.
Seid umschlungen, Millionen!
Diesen Kuß der ganzen Welt!
Brüder, überm Sternenzelt
Muß ein lieber Vater wohnen!

Wem der große Wurf gelungen,
Eines Freundes Freund zu sein,
Wer ein holdes Weib errungen,
Mische seinen Jubel ein!
Ja, wer auch nur eine Seele
Sein nennt auf dem Erdenrund!
Und wer's nie gekonnt, der stehle
Weinend sich aus diesem Bund!

Chor.
Was den großen Ring bewohnet,
Huldige der Sympathie!
Zu den Sternen leitet sie,
Wo der Unbekannte thronet.

Freude trinken alle Wesen
An den Brüsten der Natur;
Alle Guten, alle Bösen
Folgen ihrer Rosenspur.
Küsse gab sie uns und Reben,
Einen Freund, geprüft im Tod;
Wollust ward dem Wurm gegeben,
Und der Cherub steht vor Gott.

Chor.
Ihr stürzt nieder, Millionen?
Ahnest du den Schöpfer, Welt?
Such' ihn überm Sternenzelt!
Über Sternen muß er wohnen.

Freude heißt die starke Feder
In der ewigen Natur.
Freude, Freude treibt die Räder
In der Großen Weltenuhr.
Blumen lockt sie aus den Keimen,
Sonnen aus dem Firmament,
Sphären rollt sie in den Räumen,
Die des Sehers Rohr nicht kennt.

Chor.
Froh, wie seine Sonnen fliegen
Durch des Himmels prächt'gen Plan,
Laufet, Brüder, eure Bahn,
Freudig, wie ein Held zum Siegen.

Aus der Wahrheit Feuerspiegel
Lächelt sie den Forscher an.
Zu der Tugend steilem Hügel
Leitet sie des Dulders Bahn.
Auf des Glaubens Sonnenberge
Sieht man ihre Fahnen wehn,
Durch den Riß gesprengter Särge
Sie im Chor der Engel stehn.

Chor.
Duldet mutig, Millionen!
Duldet für die beßre Welt!
Droben überm Sternzelt
Wird ein großer Gott belohnen.

Göttern kann man nicht vergelten;
Schön ist's, ihnen gleich zu sein.
Gram und Armut soll sich melden,
Mit den Frohen sich erfreun.
Groll und Rache sei vergessen,
Unserm Todfeind sei verziehn,
Keine Tränen soll ihn pressen,
Keine Reue nage ihn.

Chor.
Unser Schuldbuch sei vernichtet!
Ausgesöhnt die ganze Welt!
Brüder, überm Sternenzelt
Richtet Gott, wie wir gerichtet.

Freude sprudelt in Pokalen,
In der Traube goldnem Blut
Trinken Sanftmut Kannibalen,
Die Verzweiflung Heldenmut--
Brüder, fliegt von euren Sitzen,
Wenn der volle Römer kreist,
Laßt den Schaum zum Himmel spritzen:
Dieses Glas dem guten Geist.

Chor.
Den der Sterne Wirbel loben,
Den des Seraphs Hymne preist,
Dieses Glas dem guten Geist
Überm Sternenzelt dort oben!

Festen Mut in schwerem Leiden,
Hilfe, wo die Unschuld weint,
Ewigkeit geschwornen Eiden,
Wahrheit gegen Freund und Feind,
Männerstolz vor Königsthronen, --
Brüder, gält' es Gut und Blut--
Dem Verdienste seine Kronen,
Untergang der Lügenbrut!

Chor.
Schließt den heil'gen Zirkel dichter,
Schwört bei diesem goldnen Wein:
Dem Gelübde treu zu sein,
Schwört es bei dem Sternenrichter!

Rettung von Tyrannenketten,
Großmut auch dem Bösewicht,
Hoffnung auf den Sterbebetten,
Gnade auf dem Hochgericht!
Auch die Toten sollen leben!
Brüder, trinkt und stimmet ein,
Allen Sündern soll vergeben,
Und die Hölle nicht mehr sein.

Chor.
Eine heitre Abschiedsstunde!
Süßen Schlaf im Leichentuch!
Brüder, einen sanften Spruch
Aus des Totenrichters Mund.

English translation

Joy, thou source of light immortal,
Daughter of Elysium!
Touched with fire, to the portal,
Of thy radiant shrine, we come.
Your sweet magic, frees all others,
Held in custom's rigid rings,
All men on earth become brothers,
In the haven of your wings.

Chorus
Be embraced, you millions!
This kiss for the entire world!
Brothers, above the starry canopy
Must a loving Father reside.

Whoever has the great fortune,
To be a friend’s friend,
Whoever wins the love of a lovely woman,
Add his jubilation to ours!
Yes, anyone also who has a soul
To call his own on this earth!
And anyone who never could, should run away
Weeping from this brotherhood!

Chorus
Those who occupy the great circle,
Pay homage to sympathy!
It leads to the stars
Where the unknown is enthroned

Joy, all creatures drink
At the bosoms of nature,
All good, all evil
Follow your trail of roses.
Kisses she gives us, and wine,
A friend, proven in death.
Pleasure was given to the worm,
And the cherub stands before God.

Chorus
Do you fall before him, you millions?
Do you sense the Creator, world?
Seek him above the starry canopy,
Above the stars he must live.

Joy is called the strong spring
In the perpetuity of nature.
Joy, joy drives the wheels
In the earth’s great clock.
Flowers, she calls from the buds,
Suns, out of the firmament,
Spheres, she rolls through space
That the seer cannot know

Chorus
Happy, as his suns fly
Through the heavens’ magnificent plan
Run, brothers, your race
Joyful, as a hero to victory.

As truth’s fiery reflection
Smiles at the explorer,
To virtue’s steep hill
She guides the silent sufferers’ path.
On faith’s sunlit summit
One sees her banners in the wind,
Through the cracks of burst coffins
They are seen in the chorus of angels.

Chorus
Endure courageously, you millions!
Endure for the better world!
Over the starry canopy
A good God will reward you!

Gods one cannot repay
Beautiful it is, to be like them.
Grief and poverty, acquaint yourselves
With the joyful ones rejoice.
Anger and revenge be forgotten,
Our deadly enemy be forgiven,
No tears shall he shed
No remorse shall gnaw at him

Chorus
Our debt registers be abolished
Reconcile the entire world!
Brothers, over the starry canopy
God judges, as we judged.

Joy bubbles in the cup,
In the grape’s golden blood
Cannibals drink gentleness
The fearful, courage --
Brothers, fly from your perches,
When the full cup is passed,
Let the foam spray to the heavens
This glass to the good spirit

Chorus
He whom the spirals of stars praise,
He whom the seraphim’s hymn glorifies,
This glass to the good spirit
Above the starry canopy!

Courage firm in great suffering,
Help there, where innocence weeps,
Eternally sworn oaths,
Truth towards friend and foe,
Mens’ pride before kings’ thrones --
Brothers, even if it costs property and blood, --
The crowns to those who earn them,
Defeat to the lying brood!

Chorus
Close the holy circle tighter,
Swear by this golden vine:
Remain true to the vows,
Swear by the judge above the stars!

Escape the tyrants’ chains,
Generosity also to the villain,
Hope upon the deathbeds,
Mercy from the high court!
The dead, too, shall live!
Brothers, drink and chime in,
All sinners shall be forgiven,
And hell shall be no more.

Chorus
A serene departing hour!
Sweet sleep in the shroud!
Brothers—a mild sentence
From the final judge!

the third

2007-10-31T00:23:00.000+08:00

The rain is pouring outside, a perfect night.

There's still too much bottled up inside.

This little discourse concerns emotions.

As much as I like to rationalize some actions, it's hard to explain something like feelings. There's just no linguistic facility that can adequately convey them.

So, there's really no rationalizing how I feel. A good feeling is a good feeling because it makes you feel like you want more of it, a bad one tells you never to repeat it again.

But what happens when it's a bittersweet reaction that wants you to experience it again, and simultaneously waves a knife at you in defiance. Weird huh?

Then there's those that leave you unsure of the next step, that you have to obey just because you cannot defy, but you know it's right. Just like an impulse, that makes you do certain things you might regret, but then again, not doing them is a regret.

It becomes even more interesting when the rest of the world gets thrown in for the ride. Now, you don't have yourself to contend with, you have everyone else!

Golly.

Then these emotions start getting names. Jealousy, anger, fear, uncertainty, joy, association, camaraderie, liking and love.

This should have probably been saved for perusal by certain chosen individuals, but there's not holding it back this night.

This changes nothing yet it might change everything. It's a duplex of sorts, which outcome is far from determined. It really takes 2 to clap.

I'm still looking for clues out there, just as you might be.

2007-10-30T22:32:00.000+08:00

A rare double post, but I simply have too much to contain within me. I feel that I'm losing touch with my purpose. I had 2 opportunities to help another person today and I let them slip.

To reaffirm the lost gentleman he;s on the right train. I failed. To inform the two teens where their card had fallen, I neglected.

Such weighed heavily on my soul. I had to do something, something to remedy and chase the apathy away. Then I did something I felt was nice, I gave the cleaner a small token of appreciation for his efforts. It was going to be his last day.

Have I found so much doubt in me that even the basic principles and morals have not stood the test?

Damn, I hope not.

Carpe Diem boy, Carpe Diem. The difference I can make is in the person I can help there and then, not the ones I can "potentially" help another day. They might or might not ome to pass. The one I see in front of me, that is real, someone whom I can reach out and touch.

Tirade

2007-10-30T20:11:00.000+08:00

Damaged reputations are the least of my concerns when it is alarming that the subversion of the laws and rules extend much deeper than fathomable. Worse is a sense that there's not a single member of authority who could concern his or herself, to apply their wisdom, and their scrutiny upon the issues at hand.

Let the forces of the corrupt and vile run wild whilst authority blindly entrusts in them the faith and good will.

Pathetic.

I swore to forget about this whole issue, but I'm not the kind who can sit apathetically, and pretend to be blind.

Yet I find it lacking in me, any innovative way to approach the issue at hand. A considerable amount of faith and trust in the fellow men has been squandered, by what I am sure is a deviant from the general civil portion of society. It is unfortunate that some bad eggs do contribute greatly to an aversion to cake.

This is not an essay to point an accusatory finger at any particular individual, but rather an attempt to sound out anomalies and incongruous behaviour in keeping with that of a cultured and civil society.

For how much longer must we obsess ourselves with creature comforts and battles of ego. All to what end? Just a display of dominance?

I believe, you dear misled sheep, that the year is a matter of concern, but I do assure you that the decade forthcoming is of even more consequence. The future, is in our hands, and rationality demands a responsible approach that would ensure a decent, if not generous helping of the spoils for the generations to come.

After all, has it not been a cycle of the same old occurances that seeks to perpetuate itself in the actions of thes people? To preserve their position and to further their standing in the eyes of their acquaintances. Perhaps it might be a matter of great consequence to them. However, does the future not hold more grave consequences is it were neglected?

I tire of them, and I hope they find it in themselves to change and work for something tangible and reasonable. Don't ruin somethign good to preserve a little microcosm. It's afterall a world that has a billion residents, not a little town with 50 owners.

We are not the only ones that matter. In fact, we are the only ones that do not matter.

Die, die, die!

2007-10-27T23:13:00.000+08:00

GARRHHH! dkfnberosnoanwginawpeomormbonrbrtibnikmknikbknwroignejnfaiwnppkem tzgnEIGOITE......

---

How how I abhor this melting pot of human emotions. It's so undeniably predictable and cliche, the responses they elicit, especially when the irrepressible urge to express something gets stifled before it comes to fruition. The sights and sounds you take in stimulate the senses, encouraging thoughts and reflections. Observations of the world as it flits past the cognitive senses make no coherent point.

I was taken aback and quite by surprise.

Losing one's composure, and contemplating the futility of an existence hardly contributes to the joys of one. Then again, it is all too easy to fall into the trap.

Human after all, and fallible as a human is.

Tell me why, why do I feel this sense of quiet desperation about my being? Where do I go from here? What is my purpose now?

Then again, I am starkly reminded that it's not even over yet.

Fuck.

Tragicomedy

2007-10-24T20:26:00.000+08:00

At first I found it funny, then it became rather tragic. A tragi-comedy.

On idle banter

2007-10-21T13:17:00.000+08:00

Mozart's Piano Concerto 21 K 467 Movement I

This is one of my favourite pieces. It's not very famous or renowned, but I love it for the majesty that the piece exudes, and within the composition, there's a gentle and graceful presentation of the music through the piano, strings and brass instruments. There's a certain lightness to this particular piece, in contrast to other more powerful pieces like Tchaikovsky's concerto no 1 or impactful and technically challenge as Rachmaninov's Piano concerto no2

Very interesting interpretation of finale on the piano. It's quite different from the typical variations that I've heard, and a fresh change from the Ambache Orchestra rendition that I have come to like.

-----------

With the conclusion of the weekend, I bid Seng farewell until his next holiday. Nonetheless, the 3 musketeers had fun in the past week. Pool, hanging out at Holland V, and pigging out at Botak Jones. It certainly has helped a great deal in pointing my mind back in the proper direction. It's good for the psyche and the soul. We've each changed a little in the months apart, changing as the environment and influences melded and concoct a potpourri out of our life story. Fortunately, the core's intact, we are still who we were.

So it's good to know that Gavin is clueless with it comes to wooing girls. After all these years I've still got the likings for this particular one, but I've got no clue whatsoever how to proceed. According to Meixian (oh yes, a chance meeting with my old friend on campus last week!), she claimed it's not like me to be this inhibited. Yeah, I'm surprised myself. Well, partly because I'm scared! I just can't Carpe the Diem because er... Because I just don't know how to? Erm... heh. *Sheepish*

How to do it in a really nice way? How to make an impact, an impression that will tip the odds in my favour, and the "what if it kills the friendship" nagging at my mind. then there's the silly "she like me, she likes me not" ritual. Only thing lacking is the little flower petals on the floor. Those are a little hard to come by in urban singapore. =p

Ooo... please, something just hit me, some inspiration, some compelling urge to push me past this hill of procrastination!

meme

2007-10-21T09:14:00.000+08:00

It's not a windows skin, it's OS X

For my friends, and everyone out there

2007-10-13T17:07:00.000+08:00

A little cheer and hope to see us through. It's hard to trudge a way through a foggy path, but there must be something we work towards. At the end of the day, you sit and rest, and you want to know, "hey, I did it."

Against fear, against adversity, you did it.

Everyon, here's a little ehads up to all.

"You gotta be"

Listen as your day unfolds
Challenge what the future holds
Try and keep your head up to the sky
Lovers, they may cause you tears
Go ahead release your fears
Stand up and be counted
Don't be ashamed to cry
You gotta be
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold
You gotta be wiser, you gotta be hard
You gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm
You gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Herald what your mother said
Readin' the books your father read
Try to solve the puzzles in your own sweet time
Some may have more cash than you
Others take a different view
My oh my heh, hey
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold
You gotta be wiser, you gotta be hard
You gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm
You gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Don't ask no questions, it goes on without you
Leaving you behind if you can't stand the pace
The world keeps on spinning
You can't stop it, if you try to
This time it's danger staring you in the face
Oh oh oh Remember
Listen as your day unfolds
Challenge what the future holds
Try and keep your head up to the sky
Lovers, they may cause you tears
Go ahead release your fears
My oh my heh, hey, hey
You gotta be
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold
You gotta be wiser, you gotta be hard
You gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm
You gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold
You gotta be wiser, you gotta be hard
You gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm
You gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day

Amor Amor

2007-10-10T19:48:00.000+08:00

They say a picture speaks a thousand word, ergo moving pictures convey much more than just.

Enjoy these videos, whilst I go through my silent contemplation phase. I really need a break from the mudane-ness of daily routine, a compelling urge and desire to engage in much more than simple banter.

I crave conversation.

Everyone's a little bit racist

2007-10-10T00:07:00.000+08:00

Anyone has the Avenue Q soundtrack?

Snigger

2007-10-07T13:05:00.000+08:00

Touched by an Atheist!

Which then occured to me why this guy's voice sounded so familiar.

And finally, success!

2007-10-06T19:56:00.000+08:00

After hanging my poor D.S. browser twice, I finally succeeded in getting into blogspot to attempt posting an entry. So far so good, and it appears that blogger has temporarily averted the fate of being rendered obsolete.

Demy was good, I absolutely adored peau d'anne. The costumes, in all their pompous glory was simply a magnificent sight to behold. That leaves rather high expectations, and rather tall boots for Lola to fill. Amanda, I hope you've already booked the tickets!

The fourth

2007-10-04T23:16:00.000+08:00

4. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

This is quite unconceivable, the 2nd book in less than a week. Credit goes to Carroll and that wonderfully crafted adventure that flows like water. Joining Alice on her adventure through the queer and bizzare Wonderland, we find ourselves drawn into a journey that examines the oddities of human adult world through the eyes of the uninitiated young child. As Alice experiences a symbolic "rite of passage" into the adult world, she retains the innocence only a child could posses.

Whether one would like to ifnd a magical journey of wonderous sights, or an excursion into the human condition, this book is always worth the time.

4 / 25
(16.0%)

2007-10-03T22:59:00.000+08:00

"It's not depressing, that's just life."

Oh yeah, well done, in the hour of greatest doubt of uncertainty and loss, hope decides to abandon me. She's gone jaded.

My search for meaning leaves me stranded in solitude, all alone.

Cats on Mars

2007-10-03T00:17:00.000+08:00

In other news, she's been sighted again, PRETTY WITH A PISTOL, just around Mars, sipping Black Coffee. Holding on to a piece of paper spelling "See you space cowboy", just tempting, tempting to me to join in that COSMIC DARE.

At the end of the day, if it turns out that Heaven's not Enough, it's going to be the Real Folk Blues.

---

Why the hell am I speaking nonsense? Because I'm bored, I hate to be wrong, and maybe that you'll find this amusing.

Waiting for Godot

2007-10-02T23:02:00.000+08:00

3. Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett

3 / 25
(12.0%)

It is a remarkable achievement to have finished a book, no a play to be precise, in just 2 days.

Beckett's Godot, appears to be a utterly random and unconnected series of expressions that only serve to confound and perplex the reader. There is hardly any plot, and waht little provides little insight into anything but the condition of the human affliction.

We only know this. Two men, waiting for this "Godot". Who is this Godot? His identity till the end remains veiled in secrecy, or is it a device of Beckett's? An allusion to the countless figures men look forward to chancing upon, or have been instructed to anticipate the coming of? Might it be the personification of idol worship, or a thinly disguised attack on eligious fervour?

This Godot, is supposed to deliver to Vladimir and Estragon answers. The similarity between Godot and God, might be more than mere conincidence.

Anyway, I detract from the enjoyment of a funny, yet sad story, of the comical duo who lead their tragic lives.

Indeed, a tragi-comedy in two acts.

Btw, I'm annoyed with Harris and their price tags. I can't get the sticky part of my books. Now I know why they're 25% off.

Not amused at all

2007-09-29T11:23:00.000+08:00

Why does Meiji bottle their chocolate milk and coffee milk in similar colours?

Why is that bottle in the fridge, coffee milk, not chocolate milk. Again?

Sigh.

Food for thought

2007-09-28T16:03:00.000+08:00

"They do not want you to think too much, that is why our country and our world has become so proliferated with mass media, television show, amusement parks, drugs, alcohol and every kind of entertainment to kepp the human mind entertained. So that you don't get in the way of 'important' people by doing too much thinking."

Think about it.

On philosophy and a return to it

2007-09-25T21:31:00.000+08:00

There's a prevailing school of thought that seeks to give each individual's beliefs and convictions merit. Such a school of thought was especially appealing to a mind such as mine.

Consider a case like that of the famous Robin Hood. He who robs from the rich and gives to the poor, was lauded by the populace as a hero. If by a certain twist of fate, that book had been written by John, Robin Hood would for certain be portrayed as a villainous and heinous knave, and most certainly, an associate of chaos.

The same could be said of Guy Fawkes. His actions leave much room for debate.

For certain, every person has, and for every action, there exists justifications and reasons. It is only natural, for a billion different people in a thousand different environments to grow up with varying systems of beliefs. As much as the environment is a product of mankind, mankind is likewise, a product of its environment.

The biggest quandary lies in the choice between which and what to stand for. Neutrality or conviction, belies the fundamental struggle men often find themselves faced with.

Conforming with the environment or staunch belief in principles, remain a constant point of contention in the heart of society.

Whilst neutrality (by neutrality, I reference a state of neutrality towards all ideological and moral arguments) ensures a good rapport with the crowd, it entails a weak will. A strong belief in one's principles on the other hand, riles the feathers of the crowds begging to differ from those values.

When all's said and done, when men find themselves standing at the end road, they need some assurance of the worth of the journey. A man of neutrality would have reached the destination by the whims and fancies of those in power, whereas the man of principle reaches a destination via his efforts and struggles.

Simply put, the man of neutrality might find himself in better fortune than the man of principle, but who is better of spiritually? When it comes to the end road, material wealth is but one measure of success. Spiritual, ideological, philosophical and emotional achievements constitute a whole slew of gauges one has to measure up to.

Pray choose your path.

----------

amidst that emotional outburst, I find some semblance of the life I would like to lead. Principles and values might all be subjective measures, relative to the environment, but a man is entitled to change his environment too. They are but what defines you, principles that shape the character, solid as a rock and with a foundation secure, that we can embark on any undertaking.

I acknowledge that my definition of neutrality is weak and poor. It hardly suffices to convey the type of non-commitment that I seek to chronicle, but I try my best within the limits and confines of language. Neutrality not in being non-involved in violence, but a neutrality that seeks to put you in favour of the victorious

I used to think a man is required to shape and change the world in his lifetime, regardless of the ends and means. Of late, a realization that a billion individuals cannot expect to change the world a billion times over. It would be simply chaotic at the very least.

Instead, might the true worth of a person lie in not destroying, but leaving the world without causing it harm?

Plausible? I believe so.

This might just be the beginning of a return to a more desirable mental state of mind for my sake.

moon cake fest!

2007-09-23T11:31:00.000+08:00

The chinese have their own calendar, the lunar calendar. In this calendar, the 15th of the 8th months is the occassion known as the lantern festival.

So we took the liberty of buying harmesh one.

And of course, the "proper", paper ones for the rest.

And there will be sparklers, and mooncakes!

Added in with the modern twist of yakult.

Yakult posing time!

And the whole gang

Whee!

Buffalo Wings

2007-09-22T00:34:00.000+08:00

From Wikipedia:

Buffalo wings, chicken wings, or simply wings are chicken wing sections (called flats and rounds), deep fried, and coated in sauce. Although many variations on this sauce exist, the standard Buffalo sauce is composed of only two ingredients: a vinegar-based cayenne hot sauce such as Frank's/Durkee's and margarine or butter. Purists will argue that margarine is required for the right consistency and taste. Most wings are prepared without breading, although this style is not exclusive. Buffalo wings are named after the city of Buffalo, New York, where they originated, and the appellation "buffalo" is now commonly applied to foodstuffs other than wings that are seasoned with the sauce or close variations on it... Read more...

Mei said "There's a place which serves good buffalo wings near my place."

A short misadventure later, along Sembawang, and we finally found the place. Buckaroos. Bruschetta, Onion rings and Calamari later, 2 very stuffed people struggled to move their very bloated selves out of the little ranch-styled joint in quite literally, the middle of nowhere.

Apparently, that's just hafl the good stuff they have there. Clam chowder in a bread bowl, bbq-ed ribs, and the deep fried button mushrooms.

Review to come, later, maybe someday, when I'm not lazy.

There are 3

2007-09-16T01:51:00.000+08:00

Desire, Hope and Trust. Ideals, belief and conviction.

Desire you hurt and wound, far you are, never within my grasp or hope.

Desire, she said she was just an attraction of the flesh. The temptress with song as sweet as honey and nectar. Was any resistance but futile? I fell, so entranced in that mesmerizing, dance.

You shall remain, as the beautiful portrait to admire.

Hope you appeared to show the power of miracles, but hope, can I trust?

Hope she is transient, and as perceived, by the narrative of the mind's voice. A concept that remains an idealization of a belief.

You stand there as but a support in the distance.

Trust you came and gone once before, and come again you have. Given a chance, would you give one?

Trust she is understanding and strong, and once lost is hard to regain. She will find, but would she bee seen? Let her not leave, for once gone, she is hard to seek.

You are still the strongest link after the years have passed.

Especially now, where those whom were called friends hardly are. Trust no one but yourself, that eternal mantra holds true. Just holding out for a foothold, and that pillar of support.

Never mind me

2007-09-11T21:34:00.000+08:00

Great men don't look at what they have and fear when it's going to end. Great men look at the mess they have and think "It's going to be the beginning of something great."

Great men face adversity with a smile and great men bring hope.

Maybe if the challenges were really not as tough, and each new day is a bright new beginning. There is much progress to work towards, and much understanding to come to, be it in moral, principle or way of life.

And maybe, to mild the approach. Martyrs are hardly welcome this day and age, and gentlemen who sway people with words are more in demand. Slowly and gradually, we seek to change the world, starting with the person next to us. One at a time.

A duty and honour, it is like a journey of a million miles, towards a destination unseen. What drives the spirit is a inclination, a calling to do something at least.

(Sometimes, I need a break, some encouragement and a incentive to plod on. Not for myself, for the people? Just someone to say thank you, it's worth it. Maybe. Brothers in arms, but still some piece is missing. Oh... Never mind my ramblings.)

On learning

2007-08-31T18:00:00.000+08:00

I learnt today that Vietnam's National day is on the 2nd of September, form a new found friend from Vietnam.

We learn something new everyday!

Laters

2007-08-30T01:16:00.000+08:00

I caught Paprika with mei. Watching Paprika for the second time was a pleasant surprise. There's so much hidden details that you notice only now, I am really amazed with the attention to detail the artists paid.

But anyways, I feel that the movie is not the most important thing, but the company.

The gorgeous visuals, and the soundtrack. I want the soundtrack!

2007-08-24T22:26:00.000+08:00

Incarcerated by and because of my beliefs.

Eat, sleep, reproduce and die, that would ahve been a much easier set of beliefs to have stuck by.

To command as a general of the masses or to lead as a captain of your own beliefs?

I wish I had the answers within me, but I don't.

Heck, I should just do what I want, right? Right?

2007-08-10T23:57:00.000+08:00

The forced march toawrds affluence leaves only trails of destruction and chaos in its wake. There will be victioms, and losers, perhaps some will stand to gain from this venture.

The sound of their relentless footsteps echo through the day and ring into the deep night. The chilling din they stir haunts the soul, and passes unnoticed through the surging tide of people. Edging forward without a cause, and reason devoid, to where for whom? No one asks.

Night draws ever further down it's track, and along with it, I am dragged. This discourse shall have to be adjourned for another day.

2007-08-07T11:15:00.000+08:00

I'm not quite dead, just very busy of late.

Exhuastion, plots, political intrigue, fun, sexual tensions, feelings, and being a total bastard.

So that was just 1 foc, and it's back to school once again.

Humans once again prove that their creatures with a little too much time on their hands, and the lack of entertainment results in very interesting outcomes.

So, whilst I have fun with my dearest freshies, get reaccquainted with my friends, whilst nursing that enormous trauma of a heartbreak, I guess, there's much fun in store indeed!

Cheers to the new academic year.

Between here and there

2007-07-26T00:43:00.000+08:00

It's me against the world, sometimes this sentiment fills the head and coerces the mind to seek actualization. Especially when there's too much emotional attachment. The line between professionalism and personal space, where and how do you determine it?

The answer lies in the determination of one's calling, or is the truth in the definition. This difference between personal and professional realms, does there exist such a distinction. Professionalism speaks of what one should do, and personal emotions commands you to obey that which you want to do.

The third, what you can do. "Can", that which is within your ability.

A conflict among three forces, "what you should", "what you want", and what you can". In the end, it translates to "what need to do".

Man starts out knowing what he wants, he is subservient to his emotions and instincts. As he grows, society teaches him what he should do. Morals, values, and principles. Gradually, he conceptualizes what he can do through amalgamation of the two.

The question is, what do we need to do? In this life, who can reveal to us what we need to do?

Feel so?

2007-07-18T21:19:00.000+08:00

Darn, got hit by that Guitar hero song. Anyone has the mp3?

That aside, I started rather recently at people who made my heart sink. This poor lady picking up scraps of the table at Botak Jones last week and that elderly gentleman all dishevelled, wandering down town. people like that, they draw out this sense of sympathy. You wish you could do something for them, but whatever you do is insignificant, and the futility of it all makes the despair harder to dismiss.

Why them and not someone else? I have to force myself to ignore them, telling myself not to get sentimental. Simply put, the world is made up of a balance, a balance of a system in balance. Balance between happiness and sadness, balance between good and evil , and balance between the rich and the poor. It's hard to ight the compulsive urge to beleive that tehre's such a naive state where all the suffering will disappear.

Sure, it might disappear in a fantasy world, but in reality, that's a different story.

Then what can I do for these people? Definitely, not going out to comfort everyone of them, that is impossible. I feel, that being a symbol, an example to inspire others to go out of their way to treat these people with a little more respect, with a little more kindness, and maybe they will pay it forward to the next person.

or so i try to coax myself. It's hard to achieve, especially when conformity and cold-heartedness has pervaded much of the world around me. Too cautious, and too cynical these days.

I shouldn't be. These poor people deserve our respect, they deserve our kindness and a little break from the hardships of life, like we all are entitled too. just because we had a shitty day, or just because we've just been dumped is no reason to stare at these people with the scorn and contempt of our unhappiness.

i think that's one of our common failings, as people. We take our rage, our unocntentedness and project it upon others around us. "Society would be a better place without these scums", "Get out of my way, beggar."

No, no anymore. It's not fair to them, it's not fair for us to do so. At least I promise not to have such thoughts anymore.

I really think a lot of us are pretty fortunate to be in the comfortable situation we are in, and wonder, what have we done to deserve that which others are so much more in need of.

Just plain luck?

It's an unsatisfactory answer, but the only reasonable one, in the thing called life. So why do i feel so bad about it?

Wake me up sometime soon

2007-07-15T21:58:00.000+08:00

Green Day - Wake Me Up When September Ends

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

Like my fathers come to pass
Seven years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends

Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are

As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

Ring out the bells again
Like we did when Spring began
Wake me up when September ends

Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are

As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

Like my fathers come to pass
Twenty years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends

I've been having a hell of a time, little in between for rest, enjoying the company of friends, and letting loose, letting go of the seriousness. I don't wish for it to end. I want it to last forever, if only.

It's mighty exhausting, and I wish I could take a long slumber, and wake me up when September has come to a close, when summer has come to an end and fall is waiting.

Fall, when it's time to rest under the falling leaves, and time for halloween once more.

Incongruency

2007-07-09T23:03:00.000+08:00

I love this song, from American Tales. That movie with the mice inside, trying to find each otehr after getting lost in the US of A.

Somewhere Out There

Somewhere out there beneath the pale moonlight
Someone's thinking of me and loving me tonight

Somewhere out there someone's saying a prayer
That we'll find one another in that big somewhere out there

And even though I know how very far apart we are
It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star

And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby
It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky

Somewhere out there if love can see us through
Then we'll be together somewhere out there
Out where dreams come true

And even though I know how very far apart we are
It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star

And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby
It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky

Somewhere out there if love can see us through
Then we'll be together somewhere out there
Out where dreams come true

More reasons to switch to Mac

Justin Long was in Die Hard 4.0, and I just had to go upload the Mac ads. Magnetic power chord! An ingenius solution to one of the dealiest killers of laptops. Speaking of Die Hard 4.0. Wow, adrenaline feast. John Mclane, one man, isngle-handedly chalked up more damage than the autobots and decepticons combined. How cool is that?

John Mclane, definitely lethal.

And I leave you all with this series of cute ads Guinness.

2007-07-07T09:10:00.000+08:00

I can't give you anything (but my love), SMAP + Stylistics version! woot!

2/25

2007-07-01T23:31:00.000+08:00

2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

After almost 1 whole year several unfortunate beatings to the pages and much neglect, I have finally finished what's recognized as Austen's defining piece of writing. The novel is definitely deserving of such high praise. On first glance, one might find the book lengthy, but as the story unfolds, it captures you with its intelligence. Jane's pinning, Darcy's inexplicable and perplexing character, Elizabeth's feelings. It was a reflection of society at that time, appearances and civility demand much more of its residents and to such rules, feelings and emotions were to conform to, with the exception of our female protagonist, no doubt.

2 / 25
(8.0%)

Hey! Don't boss me around ok?

2007-06-30T00:50:00.000+08:00

OMG!

ZOMG!

It's like some kind of a parabolic, seismic shock. Freaking nervous, shy and knots on my tongue. * Goes into fetal postition* I'll say it properly someday.

Meanwhile, err... Sweet dreams, ok?

1 of 25!

2007-06-26T11:46:00.000+08:00

After tearing myself away from ouedan, peeling my eyes away from dark aeon hunting and recovering from Nick's 2 splendid parties, I miraculously slotted in enough reading to finish 1 book! Yes, ONE book.

1. The Great Gatsby by Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald

A short read, and partially inspired by a Gatsby craze (the hair product, you know, guy with ridiculous hari singing until he became a skeleton ad?). That was quite some time ago, and that's how long I've been holding on to this book.

Anyway, American literature from the jazz era of decadence and extravagance, which resembles much the Victorian era's rich oritaganists with too much time, enough to bore them into challenging human bounds. Wild parties, adultery set the dark undertone, bolstered by fictional identities serving only to highlight the dreams of Gatsby and the friendship be forged with the protaganist.

The title itself, "the Great Gatsby". Irony, or sarcasm, because at the end of the book, Gatsby is neither great nor aactually Gatsby. The conclusion, the climax was expertly crafted, alas I was given the ultimate spoiler. Nevertheless, it did little to detract my enjoyment of the book.

1 / 25
(4.0%)

That aside, I can't beleive how ridiculously randoma dn quirky those PVs for the original songs use in Ouendan 2 are! Watching them just brings a smile and much laughter.

Zhenryoku Shonen had really quirky costumes, especially that afro guy.

Go My Way was initially really really meanigless, but that random twist made it so wth that it was funny.

Bambina was plain outrageously funny! What the heck was it with that random bulldog! Not to mention the really cute lady in the video.

Zoku is another cool one done in Kamen rider, fighting the bad guys with super power baseball style. Kamen baseball which is friggin vioent and gruesome in a really fun way.

And how can we forget Sekai wa sore o ai to yodundaze? Whenever someone listens to the song, the trio appear! The whole trio squeezing into places to play their song, balconies, rooms and even cars! It's hilarious seeing them in the car! Spread the cheer!

OMG! I think I'm going to die from laughing!

Hazeline Snow is my new best friend

2007-06-24T00:53:00.000+08:00

Concussion leading to a about of amnesiatic negligence leads to a case of pink, roasted eidermis.

Amidst restraint and the wild, alcohol is merely a catalyst or a scape goat for things that follow. Even without it, people can be surprised.

For now, I'm really exhausted and thoroughly drined after 2 days of partying.

Good nig..... zzzzz

Ouen-compilation!

2007-06-21T20:17:00.000+08:00

1. "Zenryoku Shōnen" (全力少年)

2. "Real Life Real Heart" (リルラリルハ (Rirura Riruha))

3. "Okuru Kotoba" (贈る言葉)

4. "POP STAR"

5. "Go my way"

6. "Julia ni Shōshin" (ジュリアに傷心)

7. "VISTA" ♪

8. "Shonen Heart" (少年ハート)

9. "Kibun Jōjō ↑↑" (気分上々↑↑)

10. "Bambina" (バンビーナ)

11. "BANG! BANG! Vacance!" (BANG! BANG! バカンス!)

12. "Believe"

13. "Zoku" (族)

14. "Music Hour" (ミュージック・アワー)

15. "COUNTDOWN"

16. "Sekai wa Sore o Ai to Yobundaze" (世界はそれを愛と呼ぶんだぜ)

BONUS SONGS

1. "Monky Magic"

2. "Glamorous Sky"

3. "Samurai Blue"

gatsby-iction

2007-06-20T23:32:00.000+08:00

After ouendiction, there's gatsby-iction!

These Japanese people are ruining millions of lives out there. Some one stop their ingeniously creative ideas before the whole world collapses please!

Wish me luck

2007-06-13T12:37:00.000+08:00

The NUS Indoor Shoot nears, and mental and physical preparations are in progress. It's my first competition after going up to the Open-Class, and it's going to be a novel experience.

More importantly, it's a time cheer on my standard-class team mates. Morale is low, and let's step up and bring some cheer.

Let's do this team. This weekend, we're coming back with medals, for Coach, for the club and for ourselves.

Books stack/pile/mountain

2007-06-12T08:23:00.000+08:00

I realized my "to read" stack has been growing, 2 more books to the pile, Milton's PAradise Lost and Dante's Divine Comedy. At the same time, I realize I've not been catching up on the DVDs I want to watch either. Good Morning Vietnam, The Gods must be crazy, Honey and Clover, tha french films with tautou in it, ah... "À la folie... pas du tout" and "Hors de prix".

Let's see, if I can reallocate my game time to reading and watching, I think this holiday can be very fruitful indeed. I mean, what are games compared to the allure of books.

That's right, that's exactly what I'll do.

0 / 25
(0.0%)

25, 25. Let's not be overly ambitious. First tasks(s) The Great Gatsby and Pride ad Prejudice. Oh yeah. Gambate!

Cuteness!

2007-06-09T21:13:00.000+08:00

teh cut3!!! OMG!

more cuteness at: http://icanhascheezburger.com/

My Poison

2007-06-04T18:35:00.000+08:00

The thing that taints my blood, sapping my will and drawing in my full undivided attention. That toxin that seeks to corrupt and defile, leaving nothing but ash behind. I ask the forbidden question, that if I should remain enthralled in its fiery grasp, what shall remain of my motral shell?

My posion

OUENDAN!!! OSU! OSU!

Let's save the world with our fiery beating hearts. Let's warm the cold, unfeeling recesses of the sprawling universe, and let's have fun!

OSU!

The most friggin ridiculous yet unbeleivable addictive game!

2007-06-02T22:15:00.000+08:00

Cosuming me slowly, eating away at the last vestiges of sanity, is a wasting disease. Stepping into the office of responsibility slowly kills me, the innoncence, hopes and dreams.

The gradual petrification of the curse of stone erases the warmth of the human heart. It is the conflict between duty and the right, and both in all their worth. How is one to discern which of the two is to be afforded a higher degree of prejudice?

As I walk down the street, on days, the voices implore my sympathy for the less fortunate, the old lady selling her packets of tissue, the blind keyboardists playing his special tune. I feel sad and sorry that I have not done more to help them, but yet, the path to that end is fraught with choices and actions that goes against the conscience.

And it makes me really depressed and melancholic whenever I have to go about dispensing this duty.

Smiling, and presuming the world would proceed without much adue, but inside, its crumbling, bit by bit. How can one maintain one's sanity when no one understands or treasures the values of morals and principles?

You have to ask your heart, and your conscience, "Can you live with yourself?"

No straights allowed!

2007-05-28T19:30:00.000+08:00

Australian pub bars heterosexuals

A gay pub in the city of Melbourne has won the right to ban heterosexuals - the first time such legislation has been passed in Australia.

The Victorian state civil and administrative tribunal ruled the Peel Hotel could ban patrons based on their sexual orientation.

The pub's management said the move would stop groups of heterosexual men and women abusing gay people... [Read more here]

Which is more alarming? Homosexuals having to fear heterosexuals or heterosexuals abusing the homosexuals.

On one hand, these are occurrences of "bullying", and on the other, a sense of isolationist policies. It's rather petty and pitiful when we break this down. Yet it is undeniable that humans posses an intrinsic detest of anything different, anything that does not conform.

and some

2007-05-24T09:54:00.002+08:00

I'm not dead, between monitor lizard(s) roaming the hall premises, classes on computer games, weighing decisions with seemingly superfluous yet significant consequences, and trainings, there isn't much leisure time to go about. The arts fest is just around the little bend, cremaster is confirmed, with Doll House, Cogito, Sinfonia Eroica and Full Frontal pending. Procrastination, procrastination, why does thou plague me?

The news appears awfully quiet of late, unrest in the Gaza stirs, spilling some over the teacup, but that still the same old, same old. Some trouble brewing over in Lebanon, slightly more novel this.

As I type away here, the realization that I am inadvertedly contirbuting to the $70/barrel price on oil hits poignantly, perhaps not so, I let a moment of nervous concern pass and contemplate the future.

In local news, the EDB takes a jab at its reputation after the University of New South Wales decides to pull out of town. Too little students for a fledgling newcomer to an already saturated market. You need to establish a niche first, get some numbers before expanding to a full school. That's what I think.

Oh, whatever.

People make mistakes and all.

Ouran is crack!

2007-05-16T21:56:00.000+08:00

Ouran ending. =3

yadda yadda

2007-05-13T20:51:00.000+08:00

Some events in our lives leave a mark, some leave scars, and some of these hurt. Little nips, stings, the bruises and cuts, and the anguish of having steel driven through vital pulsating organs. The natural human reaction to pain is withdrawal, and having learnt a lesson, avoidance.

Definitely, one gets hurt, one won't be particularly fond of that sensation, and one would not like to ever experience it again.

So sometimes, we run away. Away from situations and circumstances likely to result in any sort of damage. Logical option that is, running away. Doesn't come with the hurt and much simpler an undertaking. I'm rather fond of that specific otpion. When I run from things, I don't just keep a distance, I cover up the tracks, paint over the paths and make sure I have a 10 mile lead; all just because I'm good at it. A predisposition to running complimented with the natural gift of the gab, makes exiting a crime scene a breeze.

However, wise old men with greying beards make it a point to remind young men that "you can run but you can't hide".

I have walked from a fair share of potential troubles, hopeless messes waiting to happen. There is one that I've been running from for a good 3-4 years. It's catching up with me. In that time, I might have gotten new skills, new experiences, and old flaws made less glaring. Oh baby, time to swing for the fence

Problem is, what was it I was running from all this time? Too much fantasy and lies blurred reality. I can't tell where the real ends and the fake takes over. The scary part is, I'm starting to believe the same lies that I recount to the bystanders.

This is big, this is really big, and quite bad. Sorry Santa, I've been a really bad boy. Please don't put coal in my sock this christmas.

The thing I have neglected to explain is that running away comes with its own bag of demons. Regret, remorse and "what could have been". More importantly it forces the question "what about the other party(s) feelings?" In the best of cases, its put on cold storage, in the worst, they get hurt. (Maybe in those rare days, they are better off)

So lesson learnt? One must face one's problems, and be true to one's heart. Live without regret and without remorse. Be proud of your own decisions and stay true to them. Don't be afraid of failure and Carpe Diem!